Project Manager

Project Manager

Project Manager - Prison Refurbishment & Fire Safety Upgrades
Location: East Midlands
Start: Spring 2026
Rate: £300 - £350 per day (Inside IR35 - PAYE / Umbrella Only)
Duration: Initial 2-year programme, with a second phase taking total potential work up to 4 years
Sector: Secure Environment Refurbishment & Compliance Upgrades
The Opportunity
We're recruiting for an experienced Site Manager to support a major refurbishment and compliance-upgrade programme within a secure East Midlands prison facility. This long-term scheme involves extensive internal works, upgrades to fire safety systems, and a full programme of fabric improvements aimed at modernising and safeguarding the existing estate.The project will be delivered within a live, operational prison environment - requiring a highly professional, experienced manager with a strong background in complex refurbishment projects, compliance works, and safety-critical environments.
Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day site operations across a secure, controlled environment.
• Oversee a full spectrum of internal refurbishment and upgrade works.
• Coordinate fire-stopping installations, compartmentation improvements, and compliance works.
• Supervise trades, subcontractors, access control, and phased work sequencing.
• Ensure strict adherence to security protocols, H&S standards, and documentation.
• Liaise closely with stakeholders, security teams, and project management.
• Produce accurate daily records, reporting, permits, RAMS, and inspections.

Scope of Works
The programme includes significant upgrades and refurbishment works, such as:

• Full internal strip-out and reinstatement across operational wings and service areas
• Fire-stopping, fire-door upgrades, compartmentation, and passive fire protection
• M&E enhancements, containment upgrades, and compliance-driven electrical/fire systems work
• Structural repairs, reinstatement, flooring, walls, ceilings, and finishes
• Security-led improvements and controlled working practices
• Tight logistics management due to site restrictions and escorted operations

Essential Requirements (Non-Negotiable)

• 10+ years' management experience with directly relevant refurbishment or complex-environment project experience
• Black CSCS Card
• SMSTS
• First Aid
• Asbestos Awareness
• Willingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check and level 1 clearance
• Strong background in fire-stopping programmes, compliance upgrades, secure-site works, or major refurb projects
• Excellent leadership, documentation, and communication skills

What's on Offer

• £300 - £350 per day DOE
• Inside IR35 - PAYE / Umbrella only (No CIS / No Ltd Co)
• Long-term pipeline: initial 2-year phase with potential extension to 4 years of work
• Major, high-value refurbishment project within the East Midlands
• Opportunity to work on a technically challenging and career-defining scheme

How to Apply
If you have strong experience delivering major refurbishment, fire-stopping, or secure-environment projects - and can commit to a long-term programme starting this spring - get in touch for more details.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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