How to Become a Site Manager

At Pragmatic Consulting, we frequently receive inquiries about how to become a Site Manager, particularly for National Grid construction projects. These roles, previously categorised under TP144, TP137.11, and TP163.11, are now classified under SR163.11 and are also known as Principal Contractor Representative or Principal Contractor Site Manager (PCSM).

Given the significant salary differences compared to traditional Construction Site Managers, many professionals are keen to transition into these positions. Below we will explore the differences.

Traditional Construction Site Manager Requirements

A traditional Construction Site Manager typically requires:

• 3-Day First Aid at Work Certification
• CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS)
• CSCS Black Card
• Relevant industry tickets and experience (depending on the role and sector)

National Grid Site Manager Requirements

The SR163.11 Application Form has the following items as prerequisites, and we have hyperlinked each of these to our website where you can see more information on each course. 

• Competent Person NSI6 and NSI8 Full
• Understand the causes and consequences of Impressed Voltage – usually Impressed Voltage for Managers (not the eLearning as part of NG Authorisations) and TP234 Q and A, a lot of PCs also want the PCSM to be the Earthing Control Person and you would need to understand the PC’s IV processes etc
  • EUSR - Impressed Voltage for Managers & National Grid Supplier Requirements (SR/234) Overview
  • EUSR - Impressed Voltage for Managers & National Grid Supplier Requirements (SR/234) Overview & IVDE (ECP/EAP) Training
• Understanding of UK Health and Safety legislation – usually CITB SMSTS Minimum and CDM 2015 1-day training and assessment, normally the PCSM is also the Temporary Works Coordinator, and this is another CITB Course and formal appointment process.
  • CITB SMSTS
  • CDM 2015 Awareness & National Grid Supplier Requirements (SR/137) Overview Trainin 
• Understanding of Temporary Works, normally the PCSM is also the Temporary Works Coordinator, and this is another CITB Course and formal appointment process.
  • CITB Temporary Works Co-Ordinator Training Course (TWCTC)
• Understanding of UK Environmental and Waste Management Legislation – usually CITB SEATS
  • CITB Site Environmental Awareness Training Scheme (SEATS)
• Understanding of avoiding underground services – usually the 2-day HSG47 in a Live HV substation
  • EUSR HSG47 - Avoiding Dangers Underground Services - HV Substations
• Appropriate knowledge of relevant current NGET Supplier Requirements including latest Engineering Bulletins – (to cover a min of SR106, SR107, SR135, SR141, SR163, SR183, SR188, SR234, SR241 and Latest safety bulletins, NG Safety Docs, and Rules, NSI6 and NSI8
  • National Grid PCSM Supplier Requirements SR/106, SR/107, SR/135, SR/141, SR/163, SR/183, SR/188, SR/234 & SR/241 Awareness Training
• Understanding of the Principal Contractor/Contractor Quality Management Procedures. (QMS)

Why There is a Shortage of National Grid Site Managers

There is a significant shortage of qualified Site Managers for National Grid construction projects due to the extensive training requirements and the impact of IR35 regulations, which classify these roles as inside IR35. This has led Tier 1 contractors to heavily invest in upskilling, mentoring, and training their workforce to meet project demands.

How Pragmatic Consulting Can Help

At Pragmatic Consulting, we support contractors and individuals in navigating the transition into these highly sought-after roles. Whether you need training, certifications, or guidance on compliance with industry regulations, we can help you take the necessary steps to become a National Grid Site Manager.

If you’re considering a career shift into this lucrative sector, get in touch with us today to explore your options! Email us on: support@pragmatic-consulting.co.uk or call 01926 674340

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