Project Controls Engineer - Defence in Preston

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.

We are looking to appoint an experienced Project Controls Engineer to join our Defence team in Preston, supporting the effective control of scope, schedule, cost and risk across designated projects or work packages within a major programme operating in air system and Defence environments. Working closely with Project Managers and the wider project controls team, you will help maintain baselines, analyse performance data, produce clear reporting and provide insight that supports informed decision‑making and assured delivery. The role is due to commence in late autumn to early winter.

Note: Due to the security requirements of the role, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Maintaining and updating schedule and cost data, ensuring information is timely, accurate and auditable.
• Supporting baseline management, change control and configuration processes, maintaining appropriate logs, records and evidence.
• Assisting with performance reporting, including progress tracking, milestones, critical path analysis and forecast out‑turns, highlighting variances and key drivers.
• Supporting risk and issue management activities, including facilitation, recording, analysis and action tracking.
• Working closely with supply chain and delivery teams to validate progress, manage dependencies and support recovery planning where required.
• Contributing to audits, assurance reviews and governance packs by producing data extracts, analysis and clear narrative.

You’ll need to have:

• A relevant qualification (HND or degree) in engineering, construction, project management or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Experience working in a project controls, planning, cost or PMO environment on construction or infrastructure projects.
• A good understanding of core project controls techniques, including baseline management, change control, progress measurement and reporting.
• Competency in common planning and reporting tools such as Primavera P6 and or MS Project, Excel and PowerPoint, with the ability to learn programme‑specific systems.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to produce accurate, high‑quality outputs to tight deadlines.
• Flexibility and willingness to work from the Preston or Lancashire area as required.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.

What’s on offer:

• Car allowance.
• Hybrid working.
• Medical health cover.
• Life insurance.
• Income protection insurance.
• Pension scheme.
• Discretionary annual salary reviews.
• Family friendly policies.
• 22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.

Our values:

• Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.
• Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.
• Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.
• Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation. We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.