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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning for major defence projects, ensuring timelines and risks are managed effectively.
- Company: Join AWE, a key player in the UK's security and defence infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 9-day fortnight work pattern and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-critical programme that impacts national security while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project planning, especially with Primavera P6, is essential.
- Other info: This role requires DV clearance and offers a chance to mentor junior planners.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Senior Planner
Location: Aldermaston (AWE site)
Clearance: DV Cleared
Work Pattern: 9-day fortnight
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Join a high-profile, mission-critical programme at AWE, where you’ll play a key role in the planning and delivery of major projects at the heart of the UK’s security and defence infrastructure. We are seeking experienced Senior Planners to bring precision, foresight, and leadership to a complex, highly regulated nuclear environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop, maintain, and analyse detailed project schedules using Primavera P6 and other key planning tools.
- Support the integrated project controls function by aligning planning activity with cost, risk, and change management disciplines.
- Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure realistic, achievable project timelines and identify potential risks or slippages early.
- Engage with stakeholders to communicate schedule progress, performance metrics, and planning insights clearly and confidently.
- Drive planning excellence and mentor junior team members on best practices and tools.
Essential Experience & Skills:
- Strong track record in project and programme planning using industry-standard methodologies.
- Proficient in Primavera P6 and supporting planning software/tools.
- Broad understanding of the full project controls lifecycle, including interfaces with cost, risk, and change.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills – able to convey complex data to non-technical audiences.
- Proven ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure in fast-paced environments.
- Demonstrable experience in nuclear and/or defence projects, ideally within regulated environments (e.g., ONR, MoD).
- Committed to continuous improvement and development of others in planning discipline.
DV Cleared Planner employer: First Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
First Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land DV Cleared Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the DV clearance process. Understanding what is involved in obtaining and maintaining this clearance can give you an edge during interviews, as it shows your commitment to the role and the security protocols involved.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in the nuclear and defence sectors. Engaging with individuals who have experience in similar roles can provide valuable insights into the industry and may even lead to referrals or recommendations for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your Primavera P6 skills. Since proficiency in this software is essential for the role, consider taking a short course or finding online resources to enhance your knowledge and demonstrate your capability during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing complex projects under pressure. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to handle competing priorities and deliver results, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace DV Cleared Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in project and programme planning, especially with Primavera P6. Emphasise any relevant work in nuclear or defence projects to align with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the importance of the work at AWE. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed project schedules and collaborated with teams in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency in project controls, risk management, and communication skills. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you've conveyed complex data to non-technical audiences in the past.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Senior Planner role.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Recruitment Group
✨Showcase Your Planning Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with project and programme planning, particularly using Primavera P6. Highlight specific projects where you successfully managed timelines and overcame challenges.
✨Understand the Regulatory Environment
Familiarise yourself with the nuclear and defence sectors, especially the regulations that govern them. Demonstrating knowledge of ONR and MoD requirements can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice explaining complex planning concepts in simple terms. You may need to convey information to non-technical stakeholders, so clarity is key. Prepare examples of how you've done this in past roles.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Discuss your experience working with multi-disciplinary teams. Share examples of how you’ve collaborated effectively to align project schedules with cost and risk management, showcasing your ability to drive planning excellence.
