Freelance MEP Project Manager (Mechanical)

Warden Tyne Solutions are currently recruiting for an experienced Freelance MEP Project Manager (Mechanical) for a major hyperscale data centre development in the North East. The project involves complex internal and external mechanical infrastructure, including large-scale cooling systems, chillers, buffer vessels, closed-loop chilled water distribution, associated pipework, potable water and drainage services. Roles & Responsibilities: * Mechanical Project Delivery: Manage the mechanical package, ensuring works are delivered safely, on programme and to the required quality standards. * Installation Management: Oversee day-to-day mechanical installation activities, coordinating subcontractors, engineers and site teams to maintain progress. * Cooling Infrastructure: Coordinate the installation of cooling plant, chillers, buffer vessels, closed-loop chilled water systems, pumps, valves and associated mechanical services. * Pipework & Distribution: Manage the coordination, routing and installation sequencing of chilled water pipework and associated distribution systems. * Water Services: Coordinate the installation of potable water, drainage and associated services. * Design Coordination: Review drawings, specifications and technical submissions, raising and resolving RFIs and design queries ahead of installation. * MEP Coordination: Liaise closely with electrical, CSA, BIM, commissioning and other package leads to coordinate complex service interfaces and resolve potential clashes. * Programme & Forward Planning: Maintain detailed lookahead programmes, coordinate installation sequencing and ensure labour, materials and construction information are available when required. * Internal & External Works: Coordinate mechanical installations across building interiors and external plant areas, ensuring activities align with the wider construction programme. * Attention to Detail: Check pipework routes, plant positioning, supports, access requirements, clearances and service interfaces to minimise clashes, rework and delays. * Subcontractor Management: Monitor subcontractor performance, labour levels, productivity and workmanship, addressing issues that may affect programme or quality. * Quality Assurance: Ensure inspections, pressure testing, quality records and remedial works are completed in accordance with approved drawings and project specifications. * Procurement: Monitor material requirements, plant deliveries and long-lead equipment, escalating potential shortages or delays. * Commissioning & Handover: Coordinate installation completion, pressure testing, flushing, cleaning, commissioning readiness and handover documentation, as applicable. * Progress Reporting: Maintain accurate progress updates, lookahead schedules, action trackers and records of outstanding technical and installation issues. * Health & Safety: Ensure mechanical works are planned and undertaken safely in accordance with project procedures and relevant regulations. The Person: * Proven experience as a Mechanical Project Manager within an Principal Contractor, MEP contractor, mechanical contractor or building services environment. * Strong data centre construction experience is essential, ideally on hyperscale or mission-critical projects. * Strong technical knowledge of cooling systems, chillers, buffer vessels, chilled water distribution, pipework and associated mechanical services. * Experience managing mechanical subcontractors and coordinating complex installation packages. * Meticulous attention to detail, particularly when coordinating services with minimal installation tolerances. * Strong forward-planning skills, with experience managing lookahead programmes and installation sequences. * Excellent communication skills and the ability to liaise effectively with other package leads and multidisciplinary teams. * Ability to identify potential clashes, resolve technical issues and proactively prevent delays and rework. * Good understanding of quality assurance, commissioning and project handover requirements. * Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills. Terms: * Competitive day rate (negotiable) * Salaried role available * Outside IR35 (subject to assessment) & CIS available * 7-day payment terms