Technical Manager at Alexander Nelson

A technical manager’s input to construction projects will be technical, organisational and supervisory. The technical manager will set out and determine the location for infrastructural installations, both above and below ground, and will apply designs and plans to mark out the site. Also share responsibility for site security, health and safety and the organisation and supervision of material and human resources.
Projects can range from small scale to multi-million ventures and may include civil, road and other infrastructure projects. Working as part of the site management team, the technical manager will work alongside and liaise with:

• architects
• construction managers
• engineers
• planners
• subcontractors
• supervisors
• surveyors

Job Responsibilities

• act as the main technical adviser on a construction site for subcontractors, craftspeople and operatives set out, level and survey the site
• check plans, drawings and quantities for accuracy of calculations
• ensure that all materials used, and work performed are in accordance with the specifications
• oversee the selection and requisition of materials
• agree a price for materials and make cost-effective solutions and proposals for the intended project
• manage, monitor and interpret the contract design documents supplied by the client or architect
• liaise with any consultants, subcontractors, supervisors, planners, quantity surveyors and the general workforce involved in the project
• liaise with the local authority (where appropriate to the project) to ensure compliance with local construction regulations and by-laws
• communicate with clients and their representatives (architects, engineers and surveyors), including attending regular meetings to keep them informed of progress
• day-to-day management of the site, including supervising and monitoring the site labour force and the work of any subcontractors
• plan the work and efficiently organise the plant and site facilities in order to meet agreed deadlines
• oversee quality control and health and safety matters on site
• prepare reports as required
• resolve any unexpected technical difficulties and other problems that may arise.

Role Expectations
The Technical manager will be both on site and office based. Site visits and inspections are conducted outside in all weathers and office facilities may be located in temporary buildings or converted premises.
A reasonable level of fitness and mobility is required, as the work can be physically demanding. Site inspections may involve climbing ladders or visiting areas of sites where access is difficult. Appropriate safety equipment, such as protective boots and headgear, must be worn on site.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of active work experience in a reputable organization
• The first degree can be in any subject but those which may provide relevant knowledge include:
• building engineering
• building surveying
• civil engineering
• construction studies
• structural engineering.
• Professional Qualification in the Engineering field is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense
• Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events)
• Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems
• Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads
• Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services
• communication skills, written and oral, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of other professionals, e.g. construction managers, quantity surveyors, subcontractors, architects, designers, other engineers
• organisation skills and a methodical approach to work
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• accuracy and attention to detail
• negotiation skills
• strong teamworking skills
• excellent IT skills
• flexibility
• project-management skills
• knowledge of relevant building and health and safety legislation
• a driving licence, which is usually needed.