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