Senior Project Manager

We are Deerns, an international engineering and consultancy firm specialising in mechanical and electrical building services, energy and sustainability. We are seeking senior professionals to help develop our Portugal office and deliver Data Centre projects, working with our team in Spain and our international network.

We are seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead Data Centre projects and act as the main client contact. You will take responsibility for scope, programme, fees, resources and quality, while contributing to the growth of our local team.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects from feasibility and design through tender and construction support, in line with the agreed scope of services.

• Agree requirements, deliverables and priorities with clients, and coordinate architecture, structures, MEP, BIM and sustainability teams.

• Develop and control programmes, fee budgets and resource plans; anticipate deviations and agree corrective action.

• Manage risks, scope changes, additional services and contractual commitments, maintaining clear records of decisions and approvals.

• Lead meetings, progress reporting and quality reviews; resolve interfaces with clients, consultants, contractors and authorities.

• Monitor project financial performance, hours and invoicing forecasts, and payment follow-up, supported by Finance.

• Support bids and client relationships in Portugal, and mentor Project Managers and project coordinators.

Requirements

• A degree in Engineering, Architecture or a related discipline.

• At least 8 years of relevant experience, including 3 years leading multidisciplinary Data Centre projects.

• Experience in design consultancy, client management and control of scope, fees, resources and contracts.

• Ability to lead international teams and understand key technical and permitting interfaces in Portugal.

• Fluent Portuguese and advanced spoken and written English. Willingness to travel and attend site visits.

• Proficiency in MS Project or equivalent, Excel, and document management and collaboration platforms.

Desirable experience

PMP, PRINCE2 or equivalent certification; experience in the Portuguese market, RIBA stages and international projects. Spanish would be an advantage.

What we offer

• An opportunity to help develop our Portugal office, with autonomy and responsibility from the outset.

• Complex international projects and collaboration with specialists across engineering disciplines.

• A permanent full-time position and a competitive salary reflecting your experience and expertise.

• Training, professional development and flexibility in line with project needs and local policy.