Mechanical Engineering Project Manager

Overview

The Estates Manager Mechanical Engineering Projects is a senior operational and technical leader within the Estates and Facilities Division of St George''s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The role is based primarily at St George''s Hospital but requires flexibility to work across all Trust sites. Reporting to the Senior Estates Manager Mechanical Engineering Projects and accountable to the Assistant Director of Estates, the postholder is responsible for the efficient, safe, and economical management of mechanical engineering infrastructure projects and associated operational teams.The purpose of this role is to ensure that the Trust''s estate is supported by reliable, compliant, and effective engineering services. This includes oversight of system design, installation, operation, and maintenance in accordance with statutory legislation, NHS guidance (including HTMs and HBNs), and industry best practice.Role ContextThe Estates and Facilities Division plays a vital role in supporting the delivery of high-quality healthcare by ensuring that the Trust''s estate is safe, attractive, and operational. The Estates Manager Mechanical Engineering Projects is a key member of the division''s management team, contributing to strategic and operational planning, delivery of infrastructure upgrades, and continuous service improvement. This postholder combines professional engineering expertise with strong managerial and leadership skills, overseeing a mix of in-house staff and external contractors to deliver projects and services with minimal disruption to patient care.Key Responsibilities1.

Leadership and Team ManagementDirect and manage the in-house Mechanical Engineering Infrastructure Team and associated contractors, ensuring day-to-day operations are efficient, safe, and meet agreed service levels.Develop, train, and support staff to maintain the appropriate skill mix and succession planning for the department.Conduct staff appraisals, performance reviews, and ensure adherence to Trust policies on conduct, attendance, and behaviour.Act as a role model for the Trust''s values, embedding Excellence, Kindness, Responsibility, and Respect in team culture.Maintain staff morale, welfare, and engagement, promoting high standards of service delivery.2.

Mechanical Infrastructure ManagementTake responsibility for a diverse range of engineering systems, including HVAC, water safety and distribution, medical gas services, lifts, pressure systems, energy centre and boiler plant operations, asbestos management, and emergency planning.Ensure these systems are operated, maintained, and upgraded in compliance with statutory and NHS requirements.Implement planned preventative maintenance programmes and respond to unplanned failures quickly to minimise disruption.3.

Project Planning and DeliveryLead mechanical engineering infrastructure projects from inception to completion, ensuring adherence to programme, budget, and quality standards.Prepare and compile tender documentation in cooperation with Procurement; evaluate contractor bids, award contracts, and oversee works on site.Conduct feasibility studies and provide cost estimates for improvement works and capital projects; ensure robust project governance and reporting processes are followed.4.

Compliance, Risk, and Safety ManagementAct as an Authorised Person for HTM 02 (Medical Gases), HTM 03 (Ventilation), HTM 04 (Water Safety), and other HTMs as appropriate after successful training.Maintain Safe Systems of Work and ensure statutory compliance with health, safety, and environmental legislation.Conduct safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments, implementing corrective actions as necessary; interpret complex technical guidance for operational application.Ensure full compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirements and contribute to inspections.5.

Financial and Resource ManagementManage a portion of the Estates engineering budget of approximately £2.5 million (£2.2M non-pay, £800K pay).Monitor expenditure, ensure services are delivered within budget, and deploy resources effectively.Participate in budget-setting processes and develop cost improvement programmes; authorise official orders and approve expenditure in line with Trust policies.Ensure contractor performance delivers value for money and meets service-level agreements.6.

Information and Asset ManagementMaintain accurate engineering and project records in CAFM systems and ensure asset registers, drawings, and logbooks are updated after alterations or project completions.Monitor contractor performance using KPIs and benchmarking; provide regular progress reports to management and contribute to corporate governance reporting.7.

Stakeholder Engagement and CommunicationEstablish and maintain productive relationships with internal stakeholders including directors, managers, consultants, matrons, and clinical teams.Collaborate with external organisations such as NHS Estates, Department of Health, specialist consultants, professional bodies, and regulatory agencies; liaise with local authorities, fire services, and planning/building control as required.Communicate effectively, including presenting technical information to non-technical audiences.8.

Sustainability and Service ImprovementContribute to the Trust''s Carbon Reduction Programme and sustainability agenda; participate in the Estates Sustainable Development Group; lead service improvement initiatives and promote adoption of innovative technologies.Identify opportunities for efficiency gains without compromising safety or service quality.9.

Emergency Preparedness and On-Call DutiesParticipate in the Estates on-call rota, providing 24/7 technical support for mechanical engineering issues; respond to emergencies and major incidents; work outside normal hours when necessary.Mandatory ResponsibilitiesEnsure all work complies with the Health and Safety at Work Act, Data Protection Act, Equality and Diversity policies, and other Trust policies.Keep professional and technical knowledge up to date; protect confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.Ensure safeguarding responsibilities for children and vulnerable adults are met; support the Trust''s vision of Delivering Outstanding Care, Every Time.Qualifications and Requirements

EssentialDegree/HND/HNC in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or relevant subject; management qualification or 2 years mid-management experience in Estates; Incorporated Engineer status.3 years post-qualification experience as an Authorised Person for at least two relevant HTMs.Strong leadership, project management, and financial management skills; knowledge of NHS estates operations and statutory compliance.DesirableChartered Engineer status; prior NHS experience; advanced Microsoft Office skills.Impact of the Role

This position is central to the safe and efficient functioning of the Trust''s estate. Failures in the systems within the Estates Manager’s remit can have immediate consequences for patient care, operations, and regulatory compliance. By providing technical leadership, financial stewardship, and operational resilience, this role helps ensure the Trust’s engineering infrastructure underpins high-quality healthcare ..... full job details .....