Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems in London

Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems in London

London Full-Time 51750 - 63250 £ / year (est.) On-site
Matchtech Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and inspire a team of planners on major rail projects.
  • Company: Dynamic contractor in the rail sector based in London.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to lead impactful projects.
  • Other info: Opportunity to grow into a senior role as projects expand.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of rail infrastructure while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in planning within rail or civil engineering and strong team management skills.

The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.

Lead Planner / Planning Manager level professional with experience of managing teams on rail projects within a contractor environment, required for a London based permanent position.

This is a challenging but highly rewarding opportunity which will see you lead and inspire a team of 3 Planners on a major systems programme.

As the project continues the team will grow to around 8 with high potential that this position will develop into a more senior role once additional secured projects start.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage all planning activities across the project, supporting design, installation, testing, handover and project close-out.
  • Maintain the cost- and resource-loaded programme, including updates to the established 40,000-activity programme.
  • Prepare, manage and issue Clause 32 programmes, progress updates and comprehensive programme narratives in line with contractual requirements.
  • Coordinate monthly programme reviews covering delivery, resource utilisation, cost, revenue and target cost performance.
  • Manage programme communications through CEMAR, address client comments and ensure revised programmes and associated deliverables are submitted on time.
  • Work closely with design, commercial, procurement, quality, assurance and operations teams to track deliverables and assess their impact on procurement, installation, testing, completion and cost.
  • Maintain four-week look-ahead programmes and weekly reporting in agreed formats, integrating site progress and daily shift reports into the overall programme.
  • Lead the planning team, support recruitment and development, carry out Clause 62 impact assessments, identify project risks and provide planning support across wider projects when required.

Job Requirements

  • Significant planning experience within a rail, infrastructure, utilities or civil engineering environment.
  • Previous contractor experience in the rail sector, ideally supporting complex design and construction projects.
  • Experience leading and managing a multidisciplinary planning team.
  • Strong project planning capability, with advanced knowledge of Primavera P6 and other planning software.
  • Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including lookups and the manipulation of programme and project controls data.
  • Experience managing cost- and resource-loaded programmes, progress reporting, programme narratives and contractual deliverables.
  • Understanding of Clause 32, Clause 62, compensation events, change control and CEMAR processes.
  • NVQ or HNC qualification in engineering, or an equivalent relevant qualification, together with strong communication, organisation and analytical skills.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Lead Planner or Planning Manager to play a key role in the successful delivery of a major rail infrastructure project.

Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems in London employer: Matchtech Group

Matchtech is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With a strong focus on the rail sector in Winnersh, employees benefit from comprehensive support, flexible working options, and exciting team incentives, all while contributing to significant infrastructure developments in Ireland. Join a dedicated team where your contributions are valued, and you can thrive in a dynamic environment that fosters both personal and career advancement.

Matchtech Group

Contact Details:

Matchtech Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems in London

✨Join Engineering Meetups!

Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems role you’re after at Matchtech Group.

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✨Engage with Online Communities

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✨Apply Through Company Websites

When you spot a role like Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems at Matchtech Group, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems in London

Team Leadership
Project Planning
Primavera P6
Microsoft Excel
Cost Management
Resource Management
Programme Narratives

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Lead Planner / Planning Manager - Rail Systems, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Matchtech Group a clear picture of the value you can bring.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Matchtech Group specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.

How to prepare for a job interview at Matchtech Group

✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles

Before heading into the interview with Matchtech Group, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!

✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.

✨Relate Your Experience to the Role

In a full-time role, employers like Matchtech Group want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.

✨Know Your Tools and Software

Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.