Assistant Project Manager – Construction Projects (Client Side)

Overview

We are seeking an Assistant Project Manager to join our team at Imperial War Museums, specifically to support construction and masterplanning projects across the IWM estate at the Duxford site. This position offers an excellent opportunity for those interested in building their project management career in construction while working client-side. The role is ideal for individuals who are self-motivated, able to work autonomously, collaborate effectively, and communicate confidently with diverse stakeholders.

Working Environment

At Imperial War Museums, we merge heritage, innovation, and public engagement within a unique historic site. You'll be part of a professional, curious, and collaborative team dedicated to delivering high-quality outcomes on one of the UK’s most distinguished aviation and museum locations.

Role Purpose

The Assistant Project Manager plays a vital role in delivering construction and masterplanning projects, supporting all stages from initial planning through to completion. Responsibilities include maintaining documentation, coordinating stakeholders, supporting procurement and contract administration, and helping ensure projects meet safety, efficiency, and governance standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with managing construction and masterplanning projects from briefing through final delivery.
• Maintain and update project documentation such as action logs, risk registers, decision logs, and programme data.
• Organize and document project meetings by preparing agendas, recording minutes, and tracking action progress.
• Foster strong working relationships with internal teams, consultants, design groups, and contractors.
• Provide support in contract administration, including record keeping and monitoring project changes under supervision.
• Coordinate project information flow and uphold effective document control and data management.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and briefing materials for project meetings and governance committees.
• Assist with procurement processes including tender preparation, evaluation, and recommendation summaries.
• Pursue professional development by working towards the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ).

Candidate Profile and Requirements

• A degree-level qualification, vocational qualification, or equivalent practical experience relevant to project management or construction.
• A keen interest in construction project management and experience or enthusiasm for client-side delivery.
• Excellent organizational skills with capability to maintain precise project records and documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities, enabling effective information sharing.
• Attention to detail and the capacity to work confidently with project data and documentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• A collaborative mindset with willingness to take initiative and learn from colleagues.
• Basic understanding of construction regulations and compliance, including CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations.
• Motivation to progress within a project management career path and attain accredited qualifications.

Working Relationships and Environment

You will collaborate closely with the Project Manager, various internal departments across IWM, external consultants, contractors, and specialist teams. The role involves attending regular site visits, project meetings, and workshops primarily based at IWM Duxford.

Performance Expectations (First 6–12 Months)

• Establish strong working relationships with key stakeholders and project team members.
• Effectively manage project documentation including action points, risks, decisions, and schedules.
• Coordinate project communications and meetings to ensure tasks and actions are completed timely.
• Contribute increasingly independently to procurement and contract administrative duties.
• Support the delivery of project milestones within construction and masterplanning programmes.
• Demonstrate progress towards obtaining the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification and develop project management competencies.

Additional Information

Applicants encouraged even if they lack some listed requirements; practical experience coordinating construction projects, reporting progress, stakeholder management, or working within governance or operational environments is valuable. Formal project management qualifications are not mandatory; on-the-job development is supported.