Location: Cambridge
Salary: £59,966 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Working Pattern: Full Time
The University of Cambridge is seeking an experienced and motivated Engineering Contracts Manager to join its Estates Division and play a key role in supporting the management of one of the most prestigious and diverse estates in the United Kingdom.
This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the delivery of engineering and maintenance services across a globally recognised institution. The University’s estate spans historic listed buildings, world-class research facilities, and modern teaching spaces, all of which support internationally leading education and innovation.
About the role
The Engineering Contracts Manager will lead the development, negotiation, and management of engineering maintenance contracts that support the strategic objectives of the Estates Division.
Working closely with in-house engineering and compliance teams, you will help define contract scopes and develop effective procurement and commercial strategies that ensure both planned and reactive maintenance services are delivered efficiently, safely, and in full compliance with regulatory requirements.
You will manage the full contract lifecycle from tender development and evaluation through to contract award, mobilisation, performance monitoring, and closeout. The role also involves working closely with contractors and internal stakeholders to ensure consistently high standards of service delivery, effective risk management, and strong commercial performance.
Key responsibilities
Lead the development and procurement of engineering maintenance contracts across the University estate
Manage the full contract lifecycle including tendering, evaluation, award, and contract closeout
Work with engineering and compliance teams to define service scopes and contract strategies
Monitor contractor performance and ensure delivery against contractual obligations and KPIs
Resolve contractual issues and disputes in a professional and commercially effective manner
Ensure compliance with University procurement policies, regulatory requirements, and legal frameworks
Support continuous improvement in contractor performance, service delivery, and value for money
About you
You will have experience managing engineering or maintenance contracts within a complex estate, facilities management, construction, or infrastructure environment.
You will bring strong commercial awareness and a clear understanding of procurement and contract management processes. You will be comfortable working with technical teams and contractors, translating service requirements into clear contractual arrangements that deliver reliable outcomes.
Strong communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills will be essential, along with the ability to manage multiple contracts and priorities within a dynamic environment.
Why join the University of Cambridge
Working at the University of Cambridge offers the opportunity to be part of one of the world’s most respected institutions while benefiting from an outstanding employment package.
Employees benefit from a highly competitive pension scheme, generous annual leave entitlement, and excellent professional development opportunities. The University also supports flexible working arrangements and provides extensive wellbeing resources for staff.
As a member of staff, you will have access to a wide range of facilities including world-class libraries, museums, gardens, sports facilities, and staff networks. Employees also benefit from a variety of staff discounts, cultural opportunities, and access to many of the University’s unique academic and community resources.
Located in the beautiful and historic city of Cambridge, this role offers the opportunity to work in a unique environment while supporting the infrastructure that enables world-leading research and education.
If you are an experienced contracts professional looking to play an important role within a prestigious and technically complex estate, we would be delighted to hear from you
Salary description
£57000.00 - £60000.00 per year