At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead project planning and scheduling for complex building services projects.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovative building solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health benefits, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in project delivery while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in project planning with strong knowledge of NEC contracts.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Planning Leader to drive the development, implementation and management of robust project planning and scheduling frameworks across complex building services projects. Working within a multi‑disciplinary environment, you will ensure project programmes are accurate, controlled, and aligned with contractual requirements—supporting successful delivery across time, cost, and quality objectives.
What You Will Bring
- Proven expertise in project planning within UK building services / MEP / M&E environments
- Strong working knowledge of Primavera P6 and/or Asta Powerproject
- Solid understanding of NEC contracts, including programme and time management
- Experience producing and defending Extension of Time (EOT) claims and delay analysis
- Ability to translate complex programme data into clear insights for stakeholders
- Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, manage, and maintain project programmes (Level 1–4) across MEP projects
- Integrate design, procurement, construction, and commissioning into master schedules
- Monitor progress, identify risks, and produce regular reports and look‑ahead plans
- Manage change control and support EWNs and Compensation Events
- Lead delay analysis and support EOT claims with commercial/legal teams
- Collaborate with clients, consultants, and subcontractors to align delivery
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of planners across multiple projects
- Support bids and tenders with programme development and planning expertise
About You
- Degree/HNC/HND in a relevant discipline (or equivalent experience)
- 7+ years’ experience in planning within building services or MEP
- Strong analytical mindset with high attention to detail
- Commercially aware with understanding of programme vs cost
- Able to manage multiple complex programmes under pressure
- Collaborative, proactive, and results‑driven approach
- Right to work in the UK
People First – It starts with health, safety and wellbeing
Better Together – A collaborative team
Trusted Partners – Dedicated to our clients' success
Taking Responsibility – Making a positive difference
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion: We're committed to an inclusive and fair recruitment process. If you need any adjustments please let us know, in confidence, our team is here to support you.
Planning Lead in Bolton employer: Dalkia UK
As a Planning Lead at our company, you will join a dynamic and inclusive team dedicated to delivering excellence in building services projects. We prioritise employee wellbeing and foster a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth through mentorship and continuous learning opportunities. Located in the heart of the UK, we offer a stimulating environment where your expertise in project planning will be valued and rewarded, making a meaningful impact on our clients' success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Lead in Bolton
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Dalkia UK, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Planning Lead at Dalkia UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Lead in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dalkia UK
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
