At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead project planning from tender to completion in civil engineering.
- Company: Established civil engineering contractor with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, career progression, and diverse project exposure.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with flexible working options and support for all candidates.
- Why this job: Shape the future of infrastructure projects and influence delivery strategies.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in construction planning.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Our client is a well-established civil engineering and groundworks contractor delivering high-quality infrastructure, earthworks, drainage, and structural projects across the UK. Operating across a diverse portfolio of complex civil engineering projects, the business continues to grow through repeat business, long-standing client relationships, and a commitment to delivering projects safely, on programme, and to the highest quality standards. As part of their continued expansion, they are now seeking an experienced Senior Planner to take ownership of the planning function, supporting projects from tender stage through to successful completion.
Main Responsibilities
- Develop and manage detailed project programmes using Primavera P6 and Asta Powerproject to a fully compliant standard based on the contract type
- Work with pre-contract team to produce tender programmes and sequencing documents
- Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and commercial teams to ensure accurate planning and reporting
- Monitor progress and performance against baseline programmes
- Prepare and present planning reports, including delay analysis and mitigation strategies
- Ensure compliance with NEC and JCT contract requirements
- Support tender planning and bid submissions
The successful Senior Planner will have:
- Degree qualified in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Project Management, or a related discipline (desirable)
- Proven experience as a Planner or Senior Planner within the construction or civil engineering / groundworks sector
- From a Site Engineer background (desirable)
- Strong experience producing and managing programmes from tender through to project completion
- Advanced knowledge of P6, Asta Powerproject
- Excellent Microsoft Excel skills for programme reporting and data analysis
- Previous experience within civil engineering, reinforced concrete, infrastructure, or general contracting
- Strong understanding of NEC and/or JCT forms of contract
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- The ability to work autonomously while managing the planning function independently
- Experience liaising with estimating, commercial, operational, and senior leadership teams
What's on Offer
- Competitive day rate (outside IR35)
- Exposure to a varied portfolio of civil engineering and infrastructure projects
- Long-term career progression within a well-established business
- Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and influence project delivery strategy
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options. We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies.
Senior Planner in Birmingham employer: Nicholas Associates
Nicholas Associates is an excellent employer for those looking to thrive in the Engineering and Technical recruitment sector. With a hybrid work model, a supportive work culture, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous holiday allowances and a pension plan, employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills in a dynamic environment. Located in Sheffield, the company offers unique opportunities to engage with diverse industries while fostering a collaborative atmosphere that values both individual contributions and team success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planner in Birmingham
✨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 Nicholas Associates, 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 Senior Planner at Nicholas Associates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planner in Birmingham
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 Nicholas Associates
✨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!
