Contract Manager - Nuclear

External Title: Contract Manager - Nuclear

Location: Bridgwater, Somerset

About Vulcain Engineering

Vulcain Engineering, an international engineering consultancy, supports global industrial leaders in their transition to a more responsible and sustainable future. We support our customers in the design, construction, commissioning and operation of their complex infrastructure projects that will shape the world of tomorrow. With operations in 17 countries and employing over 6,000 staff worldwide, our business responds to the needs of our clients by delivering high-value engineering expertise tailored to our clients’ most complex challenges.

In the UK, we have a key focus in the Nuclear sector, contributing to ground breaking projects, such as Hinkley Point C (HPC).

The Position: Contract Manager

We are seeking an experienced Contract Manager to support the administration and management of major supplier and contractor agreements across the Hinkley Point C programme.

This role will suit a commercially focused professional with significant experience managing complex engineering and construction contracts within highly regulated environments. The successful candidate will work closely with project teams, procurement specialists, commercial managers and contractors to ensure contractual obligations are effectively managed and project risks are minimised.

The position offers the opportunity to work on one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Europe, supporting the successful delivery of critical construction and engineering activities.

Some of the main responsibilities of the Contract Manager will include:

• Manage contracts throughout the full contract lifecycle, from award through to close-out.
• Administer contracts operating under NEC3, NEC4 and FIDIC frameworks.
• Review, interpret and advise on contractual obligations and entitlement positions.
• Manage contractual notices, early warnings, compensation events and variations.
• Support change management, claims administration and dispute resolution activities.
• Review contractor submissions, applications for payment and programme updates.
• Monitor supplier and contractor performance against contractual requirements.
• Ensure compliance with project governance procedures and contractual obligations.
• Identify, assess and mitigate commercial and contractual risks.
• Maintain effective contractual records and correspondence.
• Support procurement teams during tender evaluations, negotiations and contract amendments.
• Develop strong working relationships with delivery teams, contractors and project stakeholders.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced contract and commercial professional looking to further their career within the nuclear sector while supporting a nationally significant programme of work.

Preferred Profile:

Alongside a commitment to our values of Care & Compassion, Performance, Team Spirit, and Inclusiveness, we are looking for individuals who can bring the following:

• Proven Contract Management experience within Nuclear, Energy, Utilities, Infrastructure, Rail, Defence or large construction projects.
• Strong understanding of NEC3, NEC4 and FIDIC contracts.
• Experience managing contractor and supplier relationships on complex projects.
• Knowledge of contract administration, claims management and commercial risk mitigation.
• Understanding of change control, compensation event and variation processes.
• Strong commercial awareness and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary project teams.
• Experience within EPC, major project or regulated environments highly desirable.
• Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Law or a related discipline preferred.
• Professional membership with RICS, CICES or equivalent would be advantageous.
• Applications are welcomed from professionals currently working as Contract Managers, Commercial Contracts Managers, Senior Quantity Surveyors (SQS), Managing Quantity Surveyors (MQS), Commercial Managers, Commercial Leads and Quantity Surveyors with demonstrable NEC3, NEC4 and/or FIDIC contract administration experience, including compensation events, variations, change control and claims management.
• Reside locally to Somerset/South West UK or be willing to relocate, as this permanent onsite role does not include travel expense coverage.

Please note that visa sponsorship is not guaranteed and is assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on role criticality and project needs. Many of our UK projects require high-level security clearance, meaning we can often only consider candidates with an existing, indefinite right to work in the UK. Exceptionally, we may consider visa sponsorship for applicants with niche experience aligned to our core work (e.g. EPR/nuclear new build).

Remuneration & Benefits:

We offer a competitive salary tailored to your experience and background. Whether you're earlier in your career or bring more senior-level expertise, we encourage you to apply if this role aligns with your skills, or if you're open to discussing other opportunities within this discipline.

We also offer a benefits package, both standard and enhanced, which is designed to support your wellbeing, development, and financial future, including:

• 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays, with the ability to swap bank holidays for cultural or religious celebrations
• Matched Pension Scheme
• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Adoption and Neonatal Care Leave
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Private Medical & Dental Insurance
• Electric Vehicle Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Training & Development, including additional qualifications and accreditations relevant to your role
• Travel Insurance – for both business and personal travel
• Employee Assistance Programme

Why join us?

At Vulcain Engineering, we offer more than just a job, we offer a rewarding career with endless opportunities for growth and development. You'll be part of a talented team of professionals working on exciting and meaningful projects and making a real impact to the nuclear industry.

We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment where your talents are valued, and your contributions are recognised.

Join us in shaping the future of the nuclear industry and driving innovation to new heights. If you are ready to take on new challenges and unlock your full potential, we invite you to apply for our position.

Equal Opportunities:

Vulcain Engineering UK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, and do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will be happy to accommodate your needs.

We appreciate every application. However, due to the volume we receive, we’re only able to contact candidates who are shortlisted for this role or who may be a strong fit for future opportunities.