Project Manager (Contract) – Reading (Hybrid) – Defence & Security
We’re recruiting for a Project Manager to support the planning, coordination and delivery of sensitive projects across the defence and security sector. You’ll work under the guidance of senior project/programme managers and help keep delivery on track across scope, time and budget.
* Reading, Berkshire (Hybrid working)
* Active SC clearance is mandatory
* Rate up to £63.80ph inside IR35
Key responsibilities
* Support creation and maintenance of project plans, schedules and resource allocations
* Track progress against milestones/deliverables and escalate risks or delays
* Maintain project documentation (plans, RAID logs, status reporting, action trackers)
* Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, capture actions and decisions
* Support stakeholder communications across technical teams, business users and suppliers
* Assist with risk and issue management (logging, mitigation follow-up)
* Support budget/resource tracking, including POs and invoices where required
* Support governance, audit and compliance requirements
Skills and experience (essential)
* Strong organisation and time-management skills
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
* Collaborative approach and ability to work in a team environment
* Basic understanding of project management principles and methodologies
* MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and familiarity with tools such as MS Project, Jira or Trello
* Analytical mindset and strong attention to detail
* Experience supporting work in MOD / Defence Digital / UK aerospace or wider defence & security environments
Desirable
* Exposure to digital transformation or technology projects
* Knowledge of Agile, Waterfall and hybrid delivery approaches
* Experience with tools such as Azure DevOps and/or Jira
* Relevant certifications (e.g., PRINCE2 Foundation, AgilePM Foundation)
What you’ll get
* Opportunity to develop project management skills on complex, sensitive programmes
* Support and mentoring from experienced project professionals
* Exposure to governance, compliance, and structured delivery frameworks
Apply
If you’re a motivated Project Manager with active SC clearance and experience supporting defence/security programmes, please apply or get in touch to discuss
