Convert your career
We’re proud to be a sponsor of the Premiership Women’s Rugby. Are you looking for your next career move? Find out what it’s like to work for Wates.
We’re proud to be a sponsor of the Premiership Women’s Rugby. Are you looking for your next career move? Find out what it’s like to work for Wates.
Women are heavily under-represented in construction and for more than a century that was the case in rugby union. But in recent years with the explosion in the number of women playing the game and the establishment of PWR that balance is changing.
Together, both Wates and PWR are driving a powerful change, with the shared goal of redefining what inclusion and equal opportunity looks like in both industries.
Discover Emily Robinson’s incredible journey into the industry, and how she’s breaking barriers in rugby and construction to inspire people to follow in her footsteps.
WHY WAIT? JOIN WATES
Our industry can help people achieve their potential, improve health and wellbeing, and shape a better future. It can change lives and strengthen communities in ways few other sectors can.
At Wates, we’re dedicated to providing opportunities for professionals like you to thrive and grow. Join our talent community today to receive the latest job openings, company news, and industry insights directly to your inbox.
Stay ahead of the curve and never miss out on exciting opportunities.
EXPLORE OUR JOB VACANCIES
To ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive our culture is founded on the following principles:
Fair treatment: We ensure that everyone is treated with fairness and respect. If an employee isn’t being treated fairly, they know that they can speak up, and be listened to, and appropriate action will be taken. At Wates, everyone is empowered and has a voice at all levels of the organisation.
Fair opportunities: Whatever role you’re in, or part of the company you work for, you’ll be able to build a great career here at Wates. Everyone has fair access to development and progression opportunities.
Fair hiring: We aim to hire the best person for the job from a diverse pool of candidates. We are actively challenging perceptions that might discourage people from joining this rewarding, challenging and interesting sector.
REVIEW STORIES FROM OUR EMPLOYEES
Head of Health and Wellbeing
"I joined Wates in 2003 with no industry experience and have since worked with supportive colleagues and managers who helped me reach my potential. The opportunities for growth, change, and promotion have been immense, allowing me to utilise my skills and build invaluable connections. Reflecting on my varied and dynamic career, I would choose Wates all over again without hesitation."
Planning Management Trainee
"During my two years as a Planner Trainee at Wates, I've gained invaluable insights across departments like Production, Commercial, Design, SHE, M&E, and Bid Management. Learning directly from seasoned professionals on-site was crucial in transforming me from a novice to a proficient planner. This experience equipped me with technical skills and a deep appreciation for the collaborative effort in construction. Wates provided a solid foundation for my career, and I'm grateful for the opportunity."
Strategy & Integration Lead
"I joined Wates over 10 years ago, starting my transformative career journey. Collaborating with diverse talent, I've enhanced my skills and driven business performance. With a growth mindset, I advanced to Strategy & Integration Lead for SES. I'm also involved in initiatives like the Wates Women’s & Allies Network and mentoring SMEs, showcasing the Group's supportive environment."
Social Value Manager
"Since joining Wates as a Social Value Manager in June 2023, I've been part of an inspiring team of social value professionals. My role involves developing programs that enable individuals facing barriers to employment to join us and our supply chain network. This work is vital at Wates, reflecting our commitment to sustainable opportunities, talent development, and collaboration. I'm privileged and thrilled to work with such brilliant colleagues every day."
Principal Technical Manager
"2024 marks my 20-year milestone in the industry, with 10 of those years spent at Wates/SES. I'm proud of this journey, which reflects a great working environment, company loyalty, and job satisfaction. Wates/SES has entrusted me with opportunities and responsibilities, supported by formal accreditations and chartership, accelerating my growth and professional standing. A ‘typical day’ is never typical—there's always something challenging happening!"
Head of Digital Construction & Engineering
"Since joining Wates Group, I've worked with diverse and collaborative teams that consistently deliver high performance. Wates has supported my career progression through on-the-job development and learning opportunities, nurturing my leadership skills for a successful and meaningful career."
Careers at Wates
Client Support Team Leader
Location: Manchester
Job Type: Clerical & Administration
Application Deadline: 22-04-2025
CLIENT SUPPORT TEAM LEADER We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Client Support Team Leader to join our FM team in Manchester. The primary focus of this role will be to take line management responsibility of the client support delivery for our new national client and a directly employed client support team. The Client Support team is an integral part of Wates FM. Working as a Team Leader within Client Support you will be a central point of escalation for a team responsible for customers and operational colleagues in the raising, allocation, and completion of jobs. With direct support from the Account Manager and a wider client operations network, you will have autonomy and responsibility to provide a first contact solution which meets our client’s needs and a first level of escalation for our team and colleagues. Key responsibilities for a Client Support Team Leader include: • Oversee daily deliverables and complete daily review of job status from all systems • Lead a team to deliver against contract KPI’s • Support and drive outputs on administration of the assigned accounts & CAFM updates • Manage updates on outsourced and Contractor work instructions • Support with leadership of a small team, to drive operational delivery within the mobile business for the client • Oversee and ensure the team monitor all Sub contractors, and info is obtained and maintained, including associated RAMS & attendance updates. • Manage, monitor, and record performance including exception reporting of the respective accounts within your remit We are looking for an individual with a proven experience in service desk management and the management of works delivery and management via CAFM to align with KPI and SLA delivery. An Engineering background is desirable. To be successful in this role you will have highly effective management skills and be able to communicate clearly and concisely. Alongside this, you will have excellent attention to detail and promote ownership through to closure. WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 5% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 22 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
Engineer
Location: Edinburgh
Job Type: Engineering
Application Deadline: 22-04-2025
Job Title: Mobile Building Fabric Engineer Wates FMLocation: Scotland Edinburgh/GlasgowJob Type: Full-Time, PermanentJob Overview:We are seeking a skilled and proactive Mobile Building Fabric Engineer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a wide range of fabric maintenance, repair, and painting tasks across multiple client sites. This role requires a versatile and hands-on professional with expertise in building maintenance, handyperson services, and painting/decorating.Key Responsibilities:· Perform general building fabric maintenance, including repairs to doors, floors, ceilings, walls, and fixtures.· Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance tasks.· Carry out minor plumbing, carpentry, and fabric works as required.· Perform internal and external painting and decorating tasks, ensuring high-quality finishes.· Assist with general handyman duties, including furniture assembly, Painting, and basic repairs.· Respond promptly to reactive maintenance requests and resolve issues efficiently.· Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations while working on-site.· Keep accurate records of work completed, materials used, and report any issues requiring further attention.· Liaise with clients and colleagues professionally to ensure excellent service delivery.Requirements:· Proven experience as a Fabric Engineer, Handyperson, or similar role in building maintenance.· Strong skills in carpentry, painting, plastering, tiling, and general building repairs.· Basic plumbing and electrical knowledge is advantageous.· Ability to work independently and manage a varied workload efficiently.· Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.· Full UK driving licence (for mobile roles).· Good communication and customer service skills.· Ability to use basic hand and power tools safely.· CSCS card (preferred but not essential).Benefits:· Competitive salary and overtime opportunities.· Company vehicle and fuel card provided.· Tools and uniform supplied.· Pension scheme and holiday allowance.· Ongoing training and development opportunities.Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.If you are a skilled and adaptable professional looking for a new challenge in a dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!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
Resident Engineer
Location: Saffron Walden
Job Type: Engineering
Application Deadline: 22-04-2025
RESIDENT ENGINEERJoin Wates: Resident Engineer Needed!Wates is offering an outstanding opportunity for a mechanically / Electrically experienced Resident Engineer to join our team, stationed on-site at our blue chip client – Wellcome Genome campus. Your primary focus will be executing planned preventative maintenance and reactive works on building plant, equipment, and systems, as well as swiftly responding to site engineering emergencies.ABOUT THE ROLE:As a Resident Engineer, your core responsibility will revolve around conducting planned preventative maintenance and reactive works on behalf of our clients. Your qualifications and experience in the field are crucial, but what truly sets you apart are your exceptional communication skills, ensuring top-notch customer service delivery. Your ability to multitask effectively, meet tight deadlines, and collaborate seamlessly with your team to troubleshoot on the go is paramount, all while championing health and safety excellence.Key Accountabilities as Resident Engineer: Accurately record all reactive and PPM tasks, ensuring detailed documentation is completed and signed off by the client weekly. Prepare Method Statements and Risk Assessments for all tasks to guarantee safe working practices. Effectively supervise subcontractors to ensure tasks are completed to the highest standards. Ensure strict compliance with all Company policies and procedures. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to work on a single siteReady to take the lead in maintaining excellence? Join us at Wates and make your mark! Apply now.WHAT WE OFFER· Competitive salary· Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates)· Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 5% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 22 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, 8 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
Business Development Director
Location: South East, South West
Job Type: Business Development
Application Deadline: 21-04-2025
Wates Group are recruiting for a Business Development Director to join our Construction South team to develop strategies to grow the business unit in line with overall objectives set by construction strategy boards.If you are passionate about the construction industry with proven skills and 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 ROLEOur Business Development Directors are a valuable part of our business, leading the way to manage the Business Development teams within the region to delivery profitable work winning opportunities in line with the overall objectives of the Construction Group.AS OUR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR YOU WILL: Develop and execute regional business development strategies in line with company objectives. Manage the business development function, ensuring compliance with internal governance and project selection processes. Conduct research and engage with clients, stakeholders, and consultants to identify growth opportunities by sector or geography. Align Business Development Manager activities with regional strategies. Develop and maintain relationship plans with key clients and consultant teams. Influence bid strategies by communicating client/project drivers to the bid team. Ensure Salesforce data is up-to-date and accessible to senior leaders. Develop digital and hardcopy media plans to communicate the company’s core purpose and support key bids. Oversee the submission of high-quality PQQs/EOIs. Formulate and manage a targeted client marketing plan within budget. Lead the regional Customer Satisfaction Programme and address key areas of client concern.WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & bonus 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.Please note that candidates represented by Agencies will not be considered at this time.