About Watkins Plumbing & Heating Services

Watkins is a well-established plumbing and heating services company operating across London and the South East of England. With a growing presence in Ashford and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality building services solutions, Watkins specialises in mechanical engineering, plumbing installations, and heating systems for commercial and residential projects throughout the region.

We are proud to be one of four key Social Value partners for 2026 with EAST KENT EDUCATION BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP LTD (EKBP), actively working to showcase careers in construction and building services to young people across Thanet and the wider South East. Our commitment to developing future talent is at the heart of everything we do — from hosting work experience students to offering structured career pathways that take individuals from trainee level all the way through to senior and lead engineer positions.

Our current team members speak to the strength of this approach. Sam Taylor joined Watkins as a Trainee Project Engineer after completing his A Levels, studied for a HND in Building Services Engineering through the University of Greenwich, progressed to Project Engineer, and was promoted to Senior Project Engineer in 2025. Oliver Hadler first joined us through a work experience placement (WEX) and is now a valued full-time trainee engineer. These stories reflect the genuine career development opportunities available at Watkins.

The Opportunity

We are expanding our team across multiple levels — from junior and trainee engineers through to senior and lead engineers — to support our growing workload across London and the South East. Whether you are just starting your career in building services or you are an experienced engineer ready to take on a leadership role, Watkins offers a structured, supportive environment where you can build a long-term career in the construction and mechanical services industry.

As part of our Ashford-based team serving projects across London and the South East, you will work on a diverse range of plumbing, heating, and mechanical services installations. You will collaborate with project managers, clients, subcontractors, and fellow engineers to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and oversee plumbing, heating, and mechanical services installations on commercial and residential projects, ensuring compliance with building regulations, British Standards, and client specifications.
Manage project workflows from initial design coordination through to commissioning and handover, maintaining accurate project documentation including RAMS, progress reports, and variation records.
Conduct site surveys, technical assessments, and feasibility studies to identify potential issues and propose cost-effective engineering solutions.
Liaise with clients, main contractors, and design teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical services with other building systems such as electrical, fire safety, and HVAC.
Supervise and mentor junior engineers, trainees, and subcontractors on site, providing technical guidance and ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations including CDM 2015.
Prepare and review technical drawings, schematics, and coordination drawings using AutoCAD and Revit MEP, ensuring accuracy and clash detection prior to installation.
Manage material procurement, supplier coordination, and plant scheduling to ensure timely delivery of resources to site and minimise project delays.
Carry out quality inspections and snagging processes at key project milestones, ensuring all installations meet design intent, warranty requirements, and industry standards such as BS 8558 and Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.
Support the project management team in preparing cost estimates, variation orders, and progress claims, contributing to project profitability and client satisfaction.
Champion Watkins' social value commitments by engaging with EKBP initiatives, supporting work experience placements, and promoting construction careers in local communities across the South East.

Requirements

For Junior / Trainee Engineer positions:

A Levels or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject (e.g., engineering, construction, or building services).
Willingness to pursue a HND or degree in Building Services Engineering (Watkins supports part-time study, including programmes through the University of Greenwich or similar institutions).
Basic understanding of plumbing, heating, or mechanical systems.
Strong willingness to learn, work on site, and develop practical skills alongside experienced engineers.
Valid CSCS card (or willingness to obtain one).
Full UK driving licence preferred.

For Senior / Lead Engineer positions:

HND or degree in Building Services Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
Minimum of 5 years' experience in plumbing, heating, or mechanical services engineering within the UK construction industry.
Proven track record of managing projects from design through to completion, including budget responsibility and client-facing communication.
Strong technical knowledge of relevant British Standards, Building Regulations (Part G, Part L, Part P), and water safety regulations.
Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit MEP for drawing production and coordination.
Experience using project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Procore, or similar platforms.
NEBOSH Construction Certificate or equivalent health and safety qualification is highly desirable.
Current CSCS card and full UK driving licence.

Technical Skills & Tools

AutoCAD, Revit MEP, and/or Amodesk for drawing and BIM coordination
Microsoft Project, Procore, or similar project management software
Estimating and cost management tools
Knowledge of Vaillant, Worcester Bosch, and other UK heating system manufacturers
Understanding of L8 Legionella compliance and water safety management
Familiarity with NICEIC, Gas Safe, and CIPHE standards and registration bodies
Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, Teams, Outlook)

Work Environment & Culture

Watkins operates from our Ashford office with regular travel to project sites across London and the South East. We are a close-knit team that values hard work, technical excellence, and genuine career development. You will not be a number here — you will be part of a company that invests in its people, supports professional qualifications, and promotes from within wherever possible.

Our culture is built on collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to delivering outstanding building services. We believe in giving engineers real responsibility early in their careers, supported by experienced mentors and a structured development programme. The success stories of team members like Sam Taylor and Oliver Hadler demonstrate that Watkins provides a genuine pathway from trainee to senior leadership.

Benefits & Compensation

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and seniority level
Support for professional development including HND, degree, and CPD programmes
Company vehicle or car allowance for senior and lead roles
Contribution towards professional body memberships (CIPHE, IMechE)
25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Company pension scheme
Opportunity to be part of Watkins' Social Value partnership with EKBP, contributing to meaningful community engagement across the South East
Clear career progression pathway from trainee through to senior and lead engineer positions

Career Growth

Watkins is committed to long-term career development. Our structured programme allows trainee engineers to gain hands-on site experience while studying for formal qualifications. As you progress, you will take on greater project responsibility, client management duties, and team leadership roles. Senior engineers are encouraged to pursue chartered engineer status (CEng) through the Institution of Mechanical Engineers or equivalent bodies, with full company support.

With our Ashford office strengthening our presence across London and the South East, this is an exciting time to join a growing company that genuinely invests in its people and the communities it serves.

How to Apply

Submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and the level of role you are applying for (Junior, Senior, or Lead Engineer). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an initial telephone interview followed by a face-to-face or video interview with our engineering management team. We aim to complete the hiring process within two to three weeks of receiving your application.

Watkins is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.