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Project Manager - Electrical Panel Building and Software

Type: Full Time

Function: Engineering

Location: Huddersfield

UNICAT Technologies are specialists in combustion, process, automation and control systems. We design, build, install and commission thermal process plant and electrical control systems for chemical, pharmaceutical, oil and gas, renewables and engineering industries across the globe.

Our mission is built upon three core values:

Innovative Catalyst and Process Technology Partner: We drive progress through cutting-edge solutions.

Dedicated Collaboration: We work closely with partners to develop effective solutions.

Adaptable and Flexible:  We focus on enhancing customer profitability, sustainability, and efficiency.

 

Employee Benefits

  • Free eye test (free pair of glasses worth up to £50)
  • Yearly health check
  • PAM Assist (Employee well-being programme)
  • Discretionary Annual bonus Scheme
  • Death-in-service benefit (up to three times annual salary)
  • Pension (company matched up to 6%)
  • Onsite parking
  • Additional Holiday Purchase Scheme (buy up to 5 extra days

 

Position: Project Manager - Electrical Panel Building and Software

Location: Huddersfield

Hours: Monday - Thursday 08:00 - 16:30, Friday 08:00 - 13:30

Job Overview

Leading and managing projects related to the design, manufacturing, and installation of electrical control panels and distribution systems. The role requires both technical expertise in electrical panel systems and strong project management skills to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to specification. Full P&L responsibility for assigned projects with accountability for profitability and commercial performance, including proactive management of client variations and change orders. Must provide accurate financial forecasting and be accountable for forecast-to-complete accuracy.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead electrical panel projects from client order to final commissioning, ensuring alignment with specifications, budgets, and timelines.
  • Own full P&L responsibility, managing revenue, costs, and margins to ensure overall project profitability.
  • Prepare and maintain accurate forecast-to-complete (FTC) reports, regularly updating financial projections and project status.
  • Monitor and control project financials, including labour, materials, subcontractor costs, and overheads to maximize margin.
  • Conduct cost-to-complete reviews, identifying risks and implementing corrective actions to avoid overruns.
  • Manage client variations and scope changes, ensuring proper documentation, evaluation, and formal approval before execution.
  • Coordinate with engineering teams on panel design and integration, ensuring technical compliance and optimal component selection.
  • Oversee manufacturing, testing, and installation, ensuring adherence to safety standards and technical specifications.
  • Maintain detailed project plans and KPIs, providing regular status updates to stakeholders and clients.
  • Support cross-functional project coverage, including stepping in for other Project Managers across electrical and mechanical projects when needed.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

  • Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical Engineering or related field, or equivalent industry experience
  • Minimum 5-8 years of experience in electrical panel building, electrical contracting, or industrial electrical systems
  • 3+ years of project management experience in electrical manufacturing or installation environments
  • Proven track record of managing project P&L and delivering profitable projects
  • Demonstrable experience in managing client variations, change orders, and contract amendments
  • Strong track record of accurate financial forecasting and cost-to-complete management
  • Professional Project Management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent) or relevant demonstrable experience
  • Strong understanding of electrical safety standards and regulations
  • Experience with project management software and tools (e.g., Microsoft Project)

Technical Knowledge Requirements

  • Knowledge of electrical panel building standards and documentation requirements
  • Understanding of electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, panel layouts, and technical documentation
  • Experience with project cost estimation, quotation preparation, and budget management
  • Strong commercial acumen with understanding of project costing, pricing strategies, and margin management
  • Knowledge of contract law principles, variation clauses, and commercial terms and conditions
  • Knowledge of relevant industry standards (ATEX where applicable, CE marking requirements)
  • Familiarity with PLC systems, control panels, motor control centers, and distribution boards

Required Skills

  • Excellent leadership and team management abilities
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities under pressure
  • Advanced communication skills for client and stakeholder management
  • Strong negotiation skills for securing profitable variation agreements with clients
  • Attention to detail in documenting scope changes and maintaining audit trails
  • Analytical mindset with the ability to critically assess project costs and challenge assumptions
  • Financial acumen and ability to prepare detailed cost forecasts with supporting justification
  • Accountability and ownership for project financial performance
  • Proficiency in project scheduling and resource planning across multiple concurrent projects
  • Risk management and mitigation expertise
  • Contract negotiation and vendor management experience
  • Financial management skills with the ability to analyse costs, forecast revenues, and drive profitability
  • Commercial awareness and ability to identify opportunities for additional revenue through variations
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and technical specifications
  • Assertiveness in managing scope creep and protecting project margins
  • Ability to present financial data clearly and defend forecasts to senior management