At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning for the Stansted Airport Transformation Project and optimise construction sequences.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in aviation infrastructure.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a chance to shape the future of aviation.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior planners and drive continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a major project that enhances passenger experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior planning roles and proficiency in Primavera P6 required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Shape the future of aviation infrastructure with Laing O'Rourke. We're looking for a Senior Project Planner to play a key role in delivering the Stansted Airport Transformation Project — a major infrastructure programme that will redefine passenger experience and operational capability. This is a senior opportunity to contribute to both pre‑construction and delivery phases, supporting the successful planning and execution of enabling and advanced works. You'll be embedded within the project team from PCSA through to construction, with the opportunity to influence strategy, sequencing, and delivery outcomes.
What you'll do:
- Develop, maintain and manage the Contract Programme and Programme to Build in line with project requirements
- Lead planning and coordination activities across enabling and advanced works packages
- Establish logical, efficient construction sequences that optimise time, cost, and risk
- Monitor progress, analyse performance, and provide clear reporting with mitigation strategies
- Produce weekly and monthly programme reports for internal and client stakeholders
- Collaborate with design, commercial, construction, and supply chain teams to align programme delivery
- Provide strategic and commercial advice on programme impacts and risks
- Contribute to procurement and construction strategies through programme development
- Liaise with clients and stakeholders, presenting programme information clearly and effectively
- Support and mentor junior planners, contributing to team development and capability
- Identify trends, risks, and opportunities, driving continuous improvement across planning processes
Project context:
This role is based on the Stansted Airport Transformation Project, commencing in late Summer 2026. Key Elements Of The Works Include:
- Site logistics and welfare facilities
- Early haul road and permanent services installation
- Airside/landside hoarding and boundary works
- Earthworks and groundworks
- Temporary and permanent services
- Pre‑construction and delivery planning for above‑ground works, including precast, steelwork, and façade systems
What we're looking for:
- Proven experience in a senior planning role on infrastructure or construction projects
- Strong capability in developing and maintaining complex project programmes
- Proficiency in Primavera P6
- Experience working with NEC forms of contract
- Strong understanding of project controls, reporting, and forecasting
- Ability to analyse programme performance and provide clear, actionable insights
- Experience coordinating across multidisciplinary teams and supply chain partners
- Commercial awareness and understanding of programme implications on cost and risk
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present programme information clearly
- A collaborative mindset with the ability to lead, support, and mentor others
Desirable:
- Experience in aviation or major infrastructure projects
- Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or similar
- Membership of CIOB (or working towards)
- Experience in pre‑contract planning or work‑winning activities
- Knowledge of advanced construction methodologies and techniques
Senior Project Planner in Essex employer: Laing O'Rourke
Contact Detail:
Laing O'Rourke Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Planner in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know in the aviation infrastructure space, the better your chances of landing that Senior Project Planner role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies showcasing your previous project planning successes. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them see how you can bring value to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by rehearsing common questions related to project planning and construction. Think about how your experience aligns with the Stansted Airport Transformation Project and be ready to discuss it.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are passionate about joining us. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance to stand out in the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Planner in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Project Planner role. Highlight your experience in infrastructure projects and your proficiency with Primavera P6. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the aviation sector and how your past experiences make you the perfect fit for the Stansted Airport Transformation Project. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage complex project programmes. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better! It helps us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Stansted Airport Transformation Project. Understand its key elements, timelines, and challenges. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Planning Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples of complex project programmes you've developed or maintained. Use Primavera P6 as a reference point and explain how you’ve optimised time, cost, and risk in past projects. Concrete examples will make your skills stand out.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice presenting programme information clearly, as if you were addressing stakeholders. This role requires excellent communication skills, so be prepared to demonstrate how you can convey complex ideas simply and effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Mentorship
Highlight your experience working with multidisciplinary teams and mentoring junior planners. Discuss how you foster collaboration and drive continuous improvement, as this aligns with their focus on team development and capability.