At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning for MEP works in major infrastructure projects and ensure integration with overall programmes.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in innovative construction and digital engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive hiring practices, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on accessibility and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-value projects while driving innovation in construction.
- Qualifications: Experience in MEP systems and strong planning skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
The MEP Principal Planner is responsible for leading the planning and programming of Mechanical, Electrical, and Public Health (MEP) works across major infrastructure and construction projects. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that MEP delivery is fully integrated into the overall project programme, aligning with Laing O'Rourke's digital engineering approach and modern methods of construction. The successful candidate will provide strategic planning leadership, programme assurance, and technical expertise across complex, high‑value projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, manage, and maintain detailed MEP programmes in alignment with project milestones and key deliverables
- Lead the integration of MEP activities into the master project programme
- Provide planning expertise throughout all project phases (tender, pre‑construction, and delivery)
- Ensure programmes reflect realistic logic, sequencing, and resource allocation
- Monitor progress against programme, identifying risks, delays, and opportunities
- Lead programme reviews and provide insight into critical path, float, and risk mitigation strategies
- Develop recovery plans and scenario analysis where required
- Support earned value analysis and reporting where applicable
Stakeholder Management
- Work closely with project directors, construction teams, commercial leads, and supply chain partners
- Coordinate with design, engineering, and delivery teams to ensure programme alignment
- Interface with clients and external stakeholders to present programme updates and strategies
MEP Expertise
- Apply in-depth knowledge of MEP systems, sequencing, and commissioning processes
- Ensure coordination between MEP trades and other work packages
- Understand and manage dependencies between design, procurement, installation, and commissioning
Digital & Innovation
- Use planning tools such as Primavera P6, Tilos, or Asta Powerproject
- Support digital construction approaches, including 4D planning and BIM integration
- Promote continuous improvement and innovation in planning processes
Accessibility and Inclusive Hiring
As part of the Disability Confident scheme, we would like to enable access to candidates with long term health conditions and disabilities through the ‘Offer an interview scheme'. This supports applicants that meet the essential criteria by offering an interview for the advertised position. Please let us know prior to interview what adjustments are required as well as discussing how we can support you in the workplace. We want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you need the application form in an alternative format or you would like to know more about our recruitment process, please email resourcingteam@laingorourke.com.
MEP PRINCIPAL PLANNER in Oxford employer: Laing O'Rourke
Laing O'Rourke is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and employee development, particularly in the dynamic field of MEP planning. With a strong commitment to digital engineering and modern construction methods, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that encourages continuous improvement and offers ample opportunities for professional growth. Located in a vibrant area, the company fosters an inclusive environment, ensuring that all team members can thrive and contribute meaningfully to high-value infrastructure projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land MEP PRINCIPAL PLANNER in Oxford
✨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 Laing O'Rourke, 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 MEP PRINCIPAL PLANNER at Laing O'Rourke.
We think you need these skills to ace MEP PRINCIPAL PLANNER in Oxford
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 Laing O'Rourke
✨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!
