We are currently recruiting for an experienced Planner to join a well-established and highly respected civil engineering contractor based in the Highlands. Our client has a strong reputation for delivering major civil engineering and infrastructure projects across Scotland, with an extensive portfolio of work covering renewable energy, power transmission, highways, marine infrastructure and general civil engineering. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Planner to join a successful and growing business with a strong pipeline of projects across the Highlands and Islands. The successful candidate will play a key role in the planning, programming and coordination of civil engineering projects, working closely with Project Managers, Site Agents, commercial teams and senior management to ensure projects are delivered efficiently, safely and on programme. The Role As Planner, you will be responsible for developing, managing and monitoring construction programmes across a range of civil engineering and infrastructure projects. Key responsibilities will include: * Preparing, developing and maintaining detailed construction programmes from tender stage through to project completion. * Producing and updating project schedules using planning software such as Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject or Microsoft Project. * Working closely with Project Managers, Site Agents and site teams to monitor progress and identify potential delays. * Developing construction methodologies, sequencing plans and critical path programmes. * Supporting tender submissions by preparing construction programmes, phasing plans and associated planning documentation. * Monitoring project progress against agreed programmes and providing regular updates to management. * Identifying programme risks, delays and opportunities for improvement. * Liaising with subcontractors, suppliers and project teams to ensure activities are effectively coordinated. * Supporting the commercial team with programme-related information, progress reporting and assessments of delays. * Attending project meetings and providing planning advice throughout the project lifecycle. * Ensuring programmes reflect project requirements, available resources and contractual obligations. About You We are looking for an organised and proactive Planner with a strong understanding of civil engineering construction methods and project delivery. The ideal candidate will have: * Previous experience in a planning or programming role within civil engineering, construction or infrastructure. * Experience working on projects such as roads, earthworks, drainage, utilities, renewable energy or major infrastructure. * Proficiency in planning software such as Primavera P6, Asta Powerproject or Microsoft Project. * A good understanding of construction sequencing, critical path analysis and programme management. * Experience preparing tender programmes and monitoring live construction projects. * Strong communication and organisational skills. * The ability to work closely with site teams, commercial departments and senior management. * A proactive approach to identifying and resolving programme challenges. * A relevant qualification in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or a related discipline would be advantageous. * A full UK driving licence. What's on Offer? * Permanent opportunity with an established and respected civil engineering contractor. * The chance to work on major infrastructure and civil engineering projects across the Highlands and Islands. * A varied and interesting workload across multiple sectors. * Opportunities for career development and progression. * A supportive and experienced management team. * Competitive salary and benefits package, dependent on experience. Interested? If you are an experienced Planner looking for your next opportunity within civil engineering, we would be keen to hear from you. For a confidential discussion about the role, please get in touch with Claire at Paxton Personnel. All enquiries will be treated in the strictest confidence. Candidates must live locally or be prepared to relocate to the Highlands. Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this role
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planner in Highland, Inverness
✨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 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!
