Planning Manager

Planning Manager – Substations & Transmission Infrastructure Location: UK – Project Dependent / Hybrid Working Contract: Long-Term Contract (12 months+) IR35 Status: Inside IR35/CIS Day Rate: Competitive – Dependent on Experience Sector: Substations | Transmission & Distribution | Energy Infrastructure The Opportunity H9 Talent Solutions is working with a leading UK infrastructure contractor to recruit an experienced Planning Manager for long-term contract opportunities across major substation and electricity transmission projects. This is an excellent opportunity for an established Planning Manager or Senior Planner looking to take the next step, working on complex, high-value energy infrastructure programmes supporting the UK's electricity network upgrades and energy transition. The successful candidate will take ownership of the planning function across major substation projects, ensuring programmes are developed, managed and delivered effectively from initial design and procurement through construction, commissioning and energisation. Key Responsibilities Lead the planning and programme management function across major HV substation construction and upgrade projects. Develop, manage and oversee detailed project programmes using Primavera P6. Manage planning activities across the full project lifecycle, including design, procurement, civils, electrical installation, testing, commissioning and energisation. Coordinate programme interfaces between civil engineering, electrical engineering, OEMs, subcontractors and client teams. Oversee the development of baseline programmes, critical path analysis, progress updates and recovery schedules. Monitor key milestones relating to substation construction, transformer installation, switchgear, protection and control systems, and grid connections. Identify programme risks, delays and potential impacts, implementing mitigation and recovery strategies. Lead programme reviews and planning meetings with project managers, delivery teams and senior stakeholders. Support contractual programme requirements under NEC3/NEC4, including compensation events, change management and delay analysis. Manage and mentor project planners, ensuring consistency and accuracy across project reporting. Produce detailed programme reports, progress dashboards and forecasts for senior management and clients. Ensure effective integration of subcontractor and supplier programmes into the overall master schedule. Experience & Requirements Essential: Proven experience as a Planning Manager, Lead Planner or Senior Planning Engineer within the UK energy or infrastructure sector. Strong background in HV substations and transmission & distribution projects. Advanced proficiency in Primavera P6. Experience managing complex construction programmes involving civil, mechanical and electrical interfaces. Strong understanding of substation construction sequencing, commissioning activities and energisation milestones. Experience working with Tier 1 contractors, EPC contractors or major utilities. Excellent leadership, stakeholder management and communication skills. Strong understanding of critical path analysis, programme risk management and project controls. Desirable: Experience delivering 132kV, 275kV or 400kV substation projects. Previous involvement in National Grid or major DNO transmission and distribution programmes. Knowledge of AIS/GIS substations, transformers, switchgear, protection and control systems. Experience managing both greenfield substation construction and brownfield upgrades. Familiarity with NEC3/NEC4 contractual planning requirements. Experience coordinating long-lead equipment procurement and commissioning interfaces. Relevant degree or professional qualification in engineering, construction management or project controls. What's on Offer? Long-term contract opportunity with a leading UK infrastructure contractor. Competitive day rate, dependent on experience. Opportunity to lead planning activities on major UK substation and transmission infrastructure programmes. Exposure to complex, high-value projects supporting the UK's energy transition. Potential for ongoing contract opportunities across a substantial infrastructure project portfolio. Interested? If you're an experienced Planning Manager with a strong background in HV substations and transmission infrastructure, we'd be keen to hear from you. For a confidential discussion, contact H9 Talent Solutions or apply directly. All enquiries will be treated confidentially