Freelance Construction Site Manager Engineering, Construction & HSEQ London

This is an initial 24 month contract role outside of IR35 starting in June '25. May extend to 36 months.

About us

We are Cero Generation, a leading European solar energy developer. Our single-minded vision is to ensure this, and every generation has access to clean, reliable, cost-effective renewable energy. Cero identifies, develops, builds and energises major solar energy projects across eight European countries, and doing so responsibly we are helping communities to thrive across Europe and beyond. We have a 25GW solar storage portfolio with further generation capability added each year. We are a Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) portfolio company, operating on a stand-alone basis.

About the role

As the Construction Site Manager (CSM), you will be accountable for delivering on site the solar and battery storage and other electrical infrastructure construction projects from contract signature (financial close) to commercial operations and handover to operations asset management. You will be working with the project senior project manager and the project manager of CERO, different subject matter experts, and contractors, partners and stakeholders to maintain the highest safety and quality standards to deliver projects on time and on budget.

You will be part of an experienced integrated project team across various disciplines (Development, Finance, Engineering, WHSES, Asset Management, M&A) comprised of internal and external resources and will be expected to spend significant time travelling to the projects in the United Kingdom to establish well-functioning sites, manage contractors on site, liaise and manage subject matter expert advisors, grid operators and other key stakeholders. You will have a track record in delivering the construction and commissioning of solar, battery and/or electrical infrastructure projects and demonstrable technical expertise.

Main responsibilities

• As the client's point of contact for the projects in construction you will ensure in collaboration with CERO's internal resources and 3 rd parties that all contractors are meeting their contractual obligations in the time agreed.
• Leadership at the site with regards to Cero's objectives and CERO values.
• Ensure focus on Health and Safety standards during the execution of all works, leading by example and seeking to establish a robust security and safety culture at the site.
• Working at the site, with the EPC contractors and the WHSES team of CERO to maintain the highest standards of WHSES and Quality on the project and ensuring the implementation of a robust construction processes based on CERO's project organization, procedures and processes.
• Liaising daily with EPC contractors, subject matter experts, consultants and local stakeholders.
• Resolving technical problems at the site in a timely manner through effective collaboration and close liaison with internal and external parties.
• Review and scrutinise RAMS on electrical, civil and other works.
• Organise and host necessary site visits from CERO teams and other stakeholders.
• Continuously review and assess the Project Schedules with the Project Manager and the Senior Project Manager.
• Track actual construction project progress and timelines. Active management of critical path and activities.
• Liaising with project stakeholders and providing daily and weekly reporting to the Project Manager and Senior Project Management members in CERO.
• Ensuring that the identified Risks according to CERO's objectives are addressed throughout the project and implementing adequate mitigation measures as needed.
• Budget / contingencies management as well as financial monitoring, supported by relevant departments.
• Regular reporting to line manager, timely escalation of critical matters.
• Site presence: Visiting the different project sites in UK as required on a weekly basis. Other travels/site visits as required and in coordination with the line manager.

What will you need to succeed in the role?

Essential Skills

• 5 years or more experience in site management and controls, construction management of solar, battery storage and/or electrical infrastructures, or other utility-scale renewable energy projects.
• A strong understanding of the grid connection process and the commissioning process of electrical installations.
• Effective and inquisitive mindset in managing the site contractors.
• Experience in site controls, site security, High Voltage rules and regulations.
• Ability to establish process and procedures for the sites at pre-construction stage/during construction stage and post-construction stage till handover to asset management.
• Understanding of time-scheduling, planning and critical path in Programme of Works for co-located solar and battery facilities.
• HSE-attitude: live by example, support the implementation of a safety culture in the project team.
• Capacity to self-motivate and organize the assigned tasks and responsibilities.
• Work ethic and attitude should align with CERO values: Collaborative, accountable, ambitious, impactful, courageous, and caring.
• Fluency in English; any other language is a plus.
• Proficient with Windows/Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint and Microsoft Project.

Desirable Skills

Existing skills are welcome, learning and improvement through specific training can be arranged in alignment with line manager:

• Smartsheet, Visio
• SigmaSix

Working with Cero Generation

Our shared culture is all about doing the right thing for our company, our people and the world around us. We're passionate about renewable energy and the vital role it can play in safeguarding the future of our planet. That's why we're all committed to collaborating to achieve excellence in our field to deliver better outcomes for all. We'll empower you to deliver on our commitments and reward you for achieving the high standards that we set.

Diversity, inclusion & privacy

Cero Generation understands the importance of diversity and inclusion. We value the innovation and creativity that diversity of thought brings. If you are capable, motivated and can deliver, we want you on our team. Cero Generation is an equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, gender identity, marriage, civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, race (including colour and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief. We facilitate a range of flexible working arrangements within our teams. Talk to us about what flexibility may be available. Cero Generation respects the privacy of the people we deal with, and we uphold high standards of privacy practice and security. Our privacy policy is available on our website at