Planner - Life Sciences

BakerHicks is currently seeking an experienced Planner to support a major EPCM framework project based at a client’s life sciences facility in Barnard Castle. This is a hands‑on planning role working closely with integrated project teams to develop, manage and control project schedules on technically complex engineering projects. You’ll play a key role in ensuring programme compliance, identifying risks early, and supporting successful project delivery within a highly regulated environment.

The Role

As Planner, you will be responsible for the development, maintenance and reporting of multiple project schedules, ensuring alignment with contractual obligations and internal procedures. You will work closely with Project Managers, Engineers and client stakeholders to provide accurate, timely schedule information that supports informed decision‑making. This role requires strong analytical capability, excellent attention to detail and the confidence to engage with multidisciplinary teams and clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, manage and maintain robust project schedules for EPCM projects
• Integrate schedule updates, changes and progress data accurately and consistently
• Monitor project performance against baseline schedules and identify variances
• Prepare regular programme reports, highlighting progress, risks and mitigation actions
• Support resource planning and workload forecasting in collaboration with project teams
• Identify schedule risks and contribute to contingency and mitigation planning
• Participate in project meetings and act as a key point of contact for planning matters
• Ensure schedules comply with contractual and internal governance requirements

About You

You’ll be an experienced Planner with a background in engineering or construction projects, ideally within Life Sciences or Pharmaceutical environments, and comfortable working in a regulated, client‑facing setting. Must be willing to work on site in Barnard Castle minimum 3 days a week.

You’ll Bring

• Significant experience in project planning and scheduling on portfolio or framework projects, overseeing multiple smaller projects simultaneously
• Strong proficiency in Primavera P6 and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent analytical, reporting and problem‑solving skills
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and work accurately under pressure
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• A collaborative, proactive approach with a keen eye for detail

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Engineering, Project Management or similar (or equivalent experience) beneficial
• Primavera P6 P106 or P103 certification advantageous
• Experience working on engineering and/or construction projects
• Life Sciences or Pharmaceutical project experience preferred but not essential
• Understanding of the engineering design and construction process
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility to work on site as required

Benefits

Whatever your discipline, you’ll be alongside some of the most talented people in the industry. Our network of offices are appealing, friendly and comfortable spaces, easily accessible by car or public transport. And our salary and benefits packages are some of the best in the industry.

• Company car or cash allowance
• Up to 6% matched contributory pension plan
• Life assurance scheme
• 25 days annual leave plus ability to buy additional leave
• Discount scheme (including gym membership, mobile phones etc)
• Flexible/hybrid working
• Family friendly policies
• Employee assistance
• Professional development

BakerHicks is an equal opportunity employer. We care about creating an inclusive atmosphere and are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion throughout. BakerHicks is an inclusive organisation welcoming talent from all backgrounds. Applicants are assessed on the basis of personal merit and qualifications.