Role: Lifecycle & Variation Project Manager
Location: Chelmsford area, Essex
Contract: Permanent, Full time, Monday to Friday. Hybrid working across Schools & University Estates
Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 + £5k Car Allowance + £7k Annual Performance Bonus + Benefits, 25 days holiday + bank holidays

We're looking for an experienced Lifecycle & Variation Project Manager to take ownership of lifecycle maintenance and new works across a portfolio of education estates, including schools and university facilities.

The projects sit under long-term contracts (PFI) and involve delivering essential upgrades, refurbishments and compliance-led works.

You'll be the point of authority for all lifecycle activity: scoping works, producing specifications, managing contractors, monitoring costs, and ensuring everything is delivered safely, on time and to standard. This role suits someone who enjoys autonomy, knows how to drive contractor performance, and isn't afraid to keep people accountable.

What you'll be doing

Lead delivery of lifecycle and variation projects in line with contractual, technical and legislative obligations.

Develop and execute procurement strategies — specification, tender analysis, award and mobilisation.

Manage project budgets (c. £1m+ per year), controlling expenditure and forecasting with accuracy and commercial awareness.

Act as Project Manager and Employer's Agent for all new works and variations.

Produce technical documentation, including scopes of work, specifications, drawings and post-completion certification.

Drive contractor and subcontractor performance, ensuring compliance with H&S legislation, RAMS, statutory requirements and site-specific safety plans.

Conduct regular audits and performance reviews to ensure best value, quality and KPI delivery.

Line-manage a Project Coordinator and support their professional development.

What you'll bring

Experience leading lifecycle or project delivery within FM, building services or construction.

Confidence managing budgets and projects exceeding £100k (portfolio >£1m).

Strong understanding of H&S legislation, building regulations and technical standards.

Proven contractor management and stakeholder engagement experience.

HNC or similar in a construction/engineering discipline (professional membership advantageous).

Full Driving Licence + happy to travel across sites.

To apply, please send your CV to (url removed)