Construction

We are a major construction contractor working across the public and private sector

Passionate about building a better tomorrow for everybody.

As a family business operating for more than 125 years, our experience is unrivalled, whether it’s building homes, workplaces, schools, hospitals or sports centres. We work as a major contractor across the UK with both public and private sector customers, to create buildings with real impact. We also provide fit out services to customers across the UK, improving our customers’ buildings, boosting their value and making them better spaces to be in. As with everything we do, our work is always of the highest standard.

£3.63bn

order book (2024)

£1.27bn

Turnover

312

projects under construction (2024)

Working in both public and private sectors

Our approach

Supporting society

We take our role in society very seriously and strive to help enrich the communities we work in, by generating social value across all our activities.

This includes programmes such as educating young people about careers in the built environment, or mentoring small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as contributing to local charities and good causes.

Optimised construction

Construction isn’t just about the materials we use, it’s also about exploiting modern techniques to give our customers the best experience.

Using optimised construction, we can improve efficiency, provide better value for money and save you time. More importantly this approach helps to create a safer working environment for everyone.

Sustainable supply chains

Having sustainable supply chains is more important than ever. We are not just committed to our own sustainability journey but also to helping our suppliers meet their own environmental targets.

We are focused on reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions from the materials we use such as concrete and steel. We also work closely with our suppliers to adopt low and zero carbon alternatives to the products we use.

From commercial to retail, hospitality to healthcare, our projects speak for themselves.

Sandwell Aquatics Centre

Sandwell Aquatics Centre, Smethwick

Delivering a world class sporting venue and a community legacy. Sandwell Aquatics Centre has been built to host one of the largest international sporting events of 2022.

Sport and Leisure
We collaborate with our customers, working on sustainable, innovative designs that transform retail spaces

Marks & Spencer stores fit out

We have been working for Marks & Spencer (M&S) for over 20 years, delivering over 1,000 store refurbishment and fit out projects across the M&S full range of stores, including clothing & home and foodhalls.

Retail and the high street
Oxford university life and mind building

Life and Mind Building – University of Oxford

The Life & Mind building will be the ‘largest building project ever undertaken’ by the University of Oxford.

Science and Technology
Wellington Place high quality commercial office development in Leeds

11 and 12 Wellington Place, Leeds

The intention for 11 & 12 Wellington Place was to create two landmark buildings in the heart of Leeds City Centre.

Commercial
Imperial College London

Imperial College London

We recently transformed the Sir Michael Uren building at Imperial College London (ICL) over an 11-week programme.

Education
5


CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION AT WATES

Want to be part of our team?

Document Controller

Location: Newbury

Job Type: Digital Engineering

Application Deadline: 02-10-2025

Wates are on the lookout for a Document Controller to join our team in Newbury, working on exciting, high-impact projects across a range of sectors.If you’re someone who loves bringing order, thrives on structure and digital innovation, and is ready to support site teams with energy, expertise, and a fresh perspective—we want to hear from you.This is more than just document control. It's about making a real impact, growing your career in a supportive, forward-thinking team, and helping us build a better tomorrow.Why this role matters:Our Document Controllers are the heartbeat of digital information on our sites -ensuring every drawing, submission, and technical detail is right where it needs to be, when it needs to be.You'll collaborate closely with our project teams, consultants, and supply chain partners to manage, validate, and maintain digital project information throughout the lifecycle of a build.Your responsibilities will include: Own and manage the Common Data Environment (CDE) – from configuration and user support to ongoing improvements Drive information quality control, including validation, classification, workflow management, and distribution Lead on reporting, turning data like information compliance, RFIs, and technical submissions into clear performance dashboards Provide training and troubleshooting to keep everyone working efficiently with our digital tools Be the key contact for CDE-related support with clients, consultants, and suppliers What We Offer: Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working  Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade)  Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates)  Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more…  Excellent range of learning and development activity to support your career progression Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.  To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/ Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Senior Project Manager

Location: Wolverhampton

Job Type: Operational

Application Deadline: 02-10-2025

Wates are looking for a Senior Project Manager to join our construction team working on a high profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors. If you have proven technical skills and are looking for an opportunity to challenge the norm, bring fresh new ideas and elevate yourself within the industry then join us and help to create tomorrow together. This is a great opportunity to progress your career as part of a talented, diverse, and supportive team. ABOUT THE ROLE Our Senior Project Managers are a valuable part of our business, the focus of this role will be to provide visible leadership, insight, direction and foresight in the safe and profitable delivery of schemes, while also providing excellent customer satisfaction and successfully develop a team. As our Senior Project Manager you will: Provide cost-effective solutions, lead commercial strategies, and manage project business and profit plans. Develop bid strategies, support pre-contract teams, review construction options, and ensure timely delivery of design information. Set clear objectives, develop team capabilities, implement HR policies, and demonstrate leadership and motivational skills. Manage supply chain selection, nurture customer relationships, uphold brand values, and address customer concerns. Focus on successful project outcomes, manage H.S.&E performance, develop clear delivery strategies, and ensure efficient project completion. WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:  You will possess strong commercial acumen, with the ability to provide cost-effective solutions, lead commercial strategies, and manage project business and profit plans. Leadership and motivational skills are essential, as you will need to set clear objectives, develop team capabilities, and implement HR policies effectively. Additionally, expertise in managing supply chain selection, nurturing customer relationships, upholding brand values, and addressing customer concerns is required. You will also focus on achieving successful project outcomes, managing Health, Safety, and Environmental (H.S.&E) performance, developing clear delivery strategies, and ensuring efficient project completion. WHAT WE OFFER  Competitive salary & profit share scheme  Flexible working   Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade)   Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates)   Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more…   Excellent range of learning and development activity to support your career progression Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.   To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/       We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.    If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies, discuss career opportunities in strict confidence or need anything to make our recruitment process easier, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly or via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.      As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.     Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Assistant Design Manager

Location: Wigan

Job Type: Design

Application Deadline: 29-09-2025

Wates Construction are looking for an Assistant Design Manager to join our team focussing on high profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors. If you are passionate about design, working within a team environment and with proven technical skills looking for an opportunity to challenge the norm, bring fresh new ideas and elevate yourself within the industry then join us and help to create tomorrow together. This is a great opportunity to progress your career as part of a talented, diverse, and supportive team. ABOUT THE ROLE Our Assistant Design Managers are a valuable part of our business, supporting the team to drive quality outcomes, enhance buildability and foster innovation. Assistant Design Managers work collaboratively with our Design Managers/Senior Design Managers and in-house technical experts to ensure that the design develops in accordance with the brief with a firm focus on compliance, programme certainty, and best practice. As our Assistant Design Manager, you will: Work with the Design Manager to produce and manage the design programme and Information Required Schedule Provide guidance to the Project team on design related issues Coordinate project team comments, and resolve any design related construction queries with the design team WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade) Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates) Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… Excellent range of learning and development activity to support your career progression. Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity. To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/ We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group. If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies, discuss career opportunities in strict confidence or need anything to make our recruitment process easier, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly or via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible. As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships. Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Assistant Site Surveyor

Location: Nationwide

Job Type: Commercial

Application Deadline: 15-09-2025

Welcome to Wates Smartspace—a place where innovation meets impact. We’re the go-to experts in fit-out, refurbishment, and maintenance services across the UK. From modern office spaces to cutting-edge retail environments, we bring spaces to life with creativity, sustainability, and flair. Here, you’re not just part of a team; you’re part of a movement that’s reimagining places for people to thrive.Right now we are looking for talented individuals to join our team as an Assistant Surveyor, to support our projects nationwide.ABOUT THE ROLEAs our Assistant Quantity Surveyor, you’ll be diving into the heart of our projects, supporting our wider Commercial Team to keep everything on track— both in budget and quality. If you’re all about the details, love numbers, and are curious about how the built world works, this is the role for you.You will be responsible for Cost Estimation: Assist in preparing detailed cost estimates, budgets, and tender documents to ensure projects are financially viable. Subcontractor Management: Support the management of subcontractor accounts, including valuations, payments, and negotiations. Cost Monitoring: Track project costs, identifying any financial risks or opportunities to keep projects on budget. Reporting: Contribute to the preparation and analysis of cost reports and forecasts, ensuring accurate financial tracking. Site Visits: Participate in site visits to monitor progress and ensure compliance with contract requirements. Final Accounts: Assist in preparing final accounts, including cost reconciliation and settlement of any contractual claims. Collaboration: Work closely with project teams to ensure smooth project delivery, sharing insights and solutions as needed.WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car * Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.(*Subject to role…….)To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

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