Job Description

Job Title: No.1 Site Manager - Commercial Fit Out
Location: Chelmsford, Essex
Project Value: circa 150,000
Project Size: Approximately 7,000 sq ft
Duration: 5 Weeks
Start Date: 6 July 2026
Sector: Design & Build Commercial Fit Out

A reputable and well-established Design & Build fit out contractor with a strong pipeline of commercial projects is seeking an experienced No.1 Site Manager to lead a fast-paced office fit out project in Chelmsford.

You will take full responsibility as the No.1 Site Manager, managing the project from site setup through to practical completion within a challenging five-week programme. This is a hands-on role requiring excellent coordination of subcontractors, proactive programme management, and the ability to maintain high standards of health and safety, quality, and client satisfaction.

The project comprises the refurbishment and fit out of approximately 7,000 sq ft of commercial office space, including:

• Full MEP package, including mechanical alterations and demolition works.
• Electrical modifications, including relocation of floor boxes throughout the office and reuse of existing installations where possible.
• Construction of new internal partition walls.
• Installation of new flooring throughout.
• General demolition and enabling works.
• Construction of a new tea point/kitchen area.
• BMS (Building Management System) configuration, commissioning and validation works.
• Installation of lockers and fitted furniture.
• Final furniture installation, decorations and finishing works.
• Snagging, testing, commissioning and handover.

• Take full responsibility for day-to-day site operations as the No.1 Site Manager.
• Coordinate and supervise all subcontractors and trades to ensure programme milestones are achieved.
• Manage the sequencing of mechanical, electrical and fit out activities.
• Ensure all works are completed safely, on programme and to the required quality standards.
• Maintain site health and safety, including inductions, toolbox talks, inspections and compliance with company procedures.
• Review and manage RAMS, permits to work and site documentation.
• Monitor progress against programme and proactively resolve delays or site issues.
• Liaise with the client, consultants, project managers and internal delivery teams.
• Oversee quality assurance, snagging, testing and commissioning.
• Manage deliveries, site logistics and material coordination.
• Ensure the site remains organised, clean and professionally presented throughout the project.
• Lead the project through to successful practical completion and client handover.

• Proven experience as a No.1 Site Manager delivering commercial fit out projects.
• Strong understanding of fast-track office refurbishment and fit out programmes.
• Experience coordinating MEP works alongside fit out trades.
• SMSTS, CSCS Card and First Aid certificates (essential).
• Excellent organisational, communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple subcontractors within a live programme.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to project delivery.

• Competitive day rate, dependent on experience.
• Opportunity to deliver a high-quality commercial fit out with an established Design & Build contractor.
• Potential for future projects based on successful project delivery.
• Fast-paced project with autonomy to manage the site and build strong client relationships.