## Review: Project Manager (Automation) - An Exciting Opportunity with Bilfinger UK
Bilfinger UK, a prominent leader in engineering and maintenance services, presents a compelling opportunity for an experienced Project Manager to join their dynamic Automation & Digitalisation teams. This role, based in Chesterfield, offers a chance to contribute to critical infrastructure projects within the gas transmission sector, with a specific focus on enhancing cybersecurity for National Gas Transmission (NGT) compressor stations.
This is more than just a project management role; it's an invitation to be at the forefront of modern industrial automation. Bilfinger UK's commitment to enhancing asset efficiency and reducing maintenance costs across a diverse range of industries, including Nuclear, Food & Beverage, and Pharmaceuticals, provides a stable and growth-oriented environment. With a workforce of over 4,500 dedicated professionals and a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and quality, Bilfinger UK fosters a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:
- Impactful Projects: You will be instrumental in managing crucial upgrade projects for National Gas Transmission, directly contributing to the security and reliability of the UK's critical energy supply. This involves modernizing control systems and implementing robust cybersecurity measures according to IEC 62443 standards.
- Technological Diversity: The role offers exposure to a wide array of cutting-edge technologies and platforms, including Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, and AVEVA, spanning PLC, HMI, SCADA, MES, Batch, Functional Safety, OT Cyber Security, and Industry 4.0 solutions. This breadth of experience will significantly enhance your technical skillset and marketability.
- Career Growth and Development: Bilfinger UK's continuous growth in automation signifies a clear path for career advancement. The opportunity to manage projects from FEED through to commissioning and handover provides comprehensive experience across the project lifecycle.
- Multidisciplinary Team Leadership: You will have the opportunity to lead and manage diverse project teams, including those with expertise in Automation, Functional Safety, and other engineering disciplines. This fosters strong leadership and team-building skills.
- Client Relationship Management: A significant aspect of this role involves nurturing and managing client relationships, ensuring satisfaction and identifying opportunities for future collaboration. This is a crucial skill for long-term career success in project management.
- Commercial Acumen Development: The role emphasizes strong commercial and contractual management, allowing you to develop and hone your skills in areas like contract negotiation, variation management, and financial performance optimization.
- Commitment to Safety: Bilfinger UK places paramount importance on Health and Safety. As a Project Manager, you will be expected to provide strong leadership in this area, ensuring all projects and personnel operate in full accordance with company procedures.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Extensive Industry Experience Required: The role demands a minimum of 5 years of experience in delivering engineering projects within specific sectors such as Nuclear, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical/Chemical, Energy/Renewables, Metals, or Utilities. This specialized experience will be a key differentiator.
- Strong Leadership and Influencing Skills: The ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and influence stakeholders effectively is critical for success. Candidates should be able to demonstrate a proven track record in this regard.
- Contractual Familiarity: Experience with various contract forms, including NEC3/4, MF1, and bespoke CDM 2015, is essential. A solid understanding of contract management principles will be vital for commercial success.
- Project Controls Proficiency: Familiarity with project and business software such as MS Project, Primavera P6, and SAP is expected, alongside experience working with Quantity Surveyors (QS), Planners, and other project controls professionals.
- Formal Qualifications: Candidates should possess an HNC/HND in a relevant Engineering Discipline and ideally hold an APMP (PMQ) or equivalent qualification. Membership in professional bodies like the IET or APM is also advantageous.
- Strategic Thinking: The role requires not only effective execution but also strategic input in maximizing commercial returns and developing project delivery strategies.
This Project Manager (Automation) position at Bilfinger UK is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional seeking to leverage their expertise in a challenging and rewarding environment. By focusing on critical infrastructure and advanced automation technologies, Bilfinger UK offers a career path that is both impactful and conducive to professional growth.