At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our 27-month Graduate Programme and gain hands-on experience in construction planning.
- Company: John Sisk & Son, a family-owned leader in the construction industry since 1859.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured career progression, and expert mentoring.
- Other info: Opportunities for geographic mobility across the UK, Ireland, and Europe.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while shaping your future in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Recent or upcoming Planning graduates with a passion for the built environment.
The predicted salary is between 25650 - 31350 £ per year.
John Sisk & Son are looking for proactive, talented Planning Graduates across the United Kingdom, including all regions to join our Early Careers Graduate Programme.
The role involves a structured 27-month graduate programme designed to give you hands-on experience across a wide range of construction projects, helping you build the career you want. If you’ve recently graduated or are about to graduate with a degree in Planning, and you're ready to take charge of your future with a leading building contractor, we could be the perfect fit. This is your opportunity to make an impact and grow with us.
Established in 1859, Sisk is proud to be in its fifth generation of family ownership. Our founding values of care, excellence, and integrity continue to shape everything we do. With a clear vision of Building Excellence, we consistently deliver high-quality projects that exceed client expectations. Our people are the driving force behind our success, and we’re now looking for the next generation of graduates to help us carry that legacy forward.
Our Graduate Programme is a carefully designed 27-month rotational journey that offers up to three business rotations across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, giving you broad exposure and the opportunity to shape your career path, fusing technical excellence, commercial acumen, and leadership capabilities. From day one, you'll follow a detailed development plan aligned to a clear timeline, ensuring you gain the experience and competencies required to pursue professional chartership. We’re committed to helping you build a strong technical foundation and excel in your chosen area of specialism.
The programme blends structured learning, hands-on project work, and expert mentoring to deliver both depth and breadth of knowledge. With robust progress tracking, regular feedback, and a dedicated support network, you’ll be empowered to grow with confidence and make a meaningful impact.
We are looking for a collaborative team player with fresh ideas, ready to challenge yourself, and us, every step of the way. With a passion for the built environment and a drive to make a difference, you’ll bring curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to technical excellence. You should have recently graduated or be on track to graduate with a Planning degree, ready to join Sisk’s Early Careers Graduate Programme in September 2027. Over 27 months, you’ll complete up to three rotations across the business gaining exposure to live projects, commercial operations, and technical delivery.
Geographic mobility is essential - you’ll be expected to work across the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe, including at least one rotation outside of your home jurisdiction. The selection process has been designed to ensure that we, as a company, select the right individuals that will thrive with us, but also that you, as a candidate, select the right company to build and shape your career with.
In return, you will receive a competitive salary, a focused and structured start to your career and its progression in the construction industry, with excellent support and guidance every step of the way. If your application is successful, you will be required to participate in an online psychometric assessment. The programme will commence in September 2027.
Graduate Planner in Manchester employer: John Sisk & Son Ltd
John Sisk & Son Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working on impactful legacy projects in a supportive culture that prioritises safety and quality. Located in a vibrant area, the company fosters a sense of community and encourages a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Planner in Manchester
✨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 John Sisk & Son Ltd, 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 Graduate Planner at John Sisk & Son Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Planner in Manchester
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 John Sisk & Son Ltd
✨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!
