I’m currently working with a leading construction contractor who are looking to appoint an experienced Senior Planner to join their growing pre-construction team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a Planner who wants to play a key role in winning work, developing strategy and influencing projects from the earliest stages. Their pre-construction team is where projects are won — developing the strategy, understanding the risks and creating robust programmes and methodologies that give them a competitive edge. The Role As Senior Planner, you’ll take a leading role in the planning and programming of tenders and pre-construction projects, working closely with bid, commercial, operations and supply chain teams. Key responsibilities will include: * Producing and managing tender, contract and construction programmes * Developing build strategies, sequencing plans and critical path programmes * Reviewing tender documents and identifying risks, opportunities and project constraints * Preparing preliminaries, logistics plans and construction methodologies * Working collaboratively with bid, operations and supply chain teams to develop winning submissions * Producing high-quality tender responses, including programme and methodology content * Supporting project teams with programme monitoring and reporting during delivery * Contributing to risk management, health & safety and sustainable construction planning About You We’re looking for someone with: * Proven experience in construction planning and programming * Strong knowledge of Asta Powerproject, Microsoft Project or similar * A good understanding of construction methods, contracts and procurement * Excellent communication, organisation and problem-solving skills * Strong attention to detail and commercial awareness * The ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams * A full UK driving licence Desirable: * Degree qualification in a construction-related discipline * Experience working on large-scale construction projects * Civils and drainage experience * Knowledge of modern construction techniques and industry best practice Why Consider It? This role offers the opportunity to get involved early in the project lifecycle and have a genuine influence on how projects are planned, priced and ultimately delivered. You’ll work across a diverse portfolio of projects ranging from £250k to £40m, covering sectors including: * Commercial * Industrial * Residential * Public buildings You’ll be joining a collaborative, forward-thinking team where your planning expertise will be valued and where you can continue to develop your career
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planner in Aberdeen
✨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 Paxton Personnel, 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 Paxton Personnel.
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 Paxton Personnel
✨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!
