At a Glance
- Tasks: Support project planning and risk analysis for the HS2 high-speed rail project.
- Company: Join a leading team delivering the UK's new high-speed rail network.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with strong support for disabled applicants.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative project that connects major UK cities.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or similar, with planning experience in construction.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: London
Closing Date: 31/07/2026
Function: Projectwide Services
Team: Planning
Job Introduction
The Strategic Planning Engineer will report to the Strategic Planning Manager for SCS in the PMO. They will support the update of the Contract Programme / Programme for Acceptance, monthly reporting, and associated narratives. They will support coordination between the core planning team and the wider project control management teams for schedule interfaces, progress measurement and earned value, quantitative schedule risk analysis and maintenance of baselines. They will support the planning team by assisting the update of the Project Controls Execution Plan and Planning Procedures so that they reflect the requirements under the works information and subsequent PMIs. They will support the assurance function within the PMO to ensure that the project teams are compliant with our processes.
Flexible working: We welcome you to ask about the flexibility you need. This might be part‑time, remote working, or compressed hours for example. Anyone who applies for a role can ask about flexibility at interview. In return, we will explore what is possible for the role.
Main Responsibilities
- Contribute to assessment of schedule risks and analysis, including development and implementation of mitigation measures.
- Support Time Risk Allowance, Duration Uncertainty and Discrete Risk assessments.
- Support the planning team in the quantitative schedule risk analysis.
- Support the coordination of the performance measurement baseline and its update.
- Support the project in ensuring rules of credit are complied with.
- Support cost and schedule alignment.
- Oversight of project interfaces with Stations and Rail Systems, supporting the project Milestone Definition Sheets maintenance and update.
- Oversight of Handover and Assurance activities planning and progress measurement.
- Work with the Head of Planning and Head of Project Controls to ensure a consistent approach across the project in the above.
The Ideal Candidate
- Planning in engineering and construction projects.
- Knowledge of QSRAs, Time Risk Allowances and risk management.
- Experience in establishing a baseline, its maintenance, and earned value.
- Knowledge of the development and implementation of asset structures, planning standards, WBS and planning processes.
- Competence in Primavera P6.
- Degree in engineering or similar subject.
About The Company
The role will work on the HS2 project. HS2 is the UK’s new high speed rail network and will connect eight of the UK’s ten biggest cities with fast, reliable and frequent high speed services. SCS Costain and STRABAG JV are delivering the HS2 London Tunnels Contract. Scope of works includes twin‑bored tunnels, SCL tunnels, shaft sinking, bridge demolition and reconstruction, services diversions, earthworks and the construction of site compounds.
We are an equal‑opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. SCS Railways is a Disability Confident Leader. We want to encourage disabled people to apply. We will ensure a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum criteria will be offered an interview. To be considered for an interview under this scheme you must have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long‑term effect (over 12 months) adverse effect on your ability to carry out normal day‑to‑day activities, and demonstrate meeting the minimum job criteria and person specification for the role.
Strategic Planning Engineer employer: SCS Railways
As a Strategic Planning Engineer at SCS Railways, you will be part of a dynamic team working on the transformative HS2 project in London, which promises to revolutionise rail travel across the UK. Our company prides itself on offering a competitive benefits package, a flexible working environment, and a strong commitment to employee development, ensuring that you have the resources and support needed to thrive in your career. Join us in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where your contributions are valued and your professional growth is encouraged.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Planning Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and the role. Understand their projects, values, and challenges. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or use online resources. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experience and skills, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Planning Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Strategic Planning Engineer role. Highlight your experience in planning, risk management, and any relevant software like Primavera P6. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the HS2 project and how your background makes you a great fit. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be sure to showcase any relevant experience in engineering and construction projects. Mention specific projects where you've contributed to schedule risk assessments or baseline maintenance – it’ll help us see your expertise!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the details you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at SCS Railways
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of planning in engineering and construction projects. Familiarise yourself with QSRAs, Time Risk Allowances, and risk management techniques. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've established baselines, maintained them, or dealt with earned value. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easy for the interviewer to see your impact.
✨Get Comfortable with Primavera P6
Since competence in Primavera P6 is a must-have, make sure you can talk about your experience with this software. If you have any recent projects where you used it, be ready to explain how it helped you manage schedules and risks effectively.
✨Ask About Flexibility
Don’t hesitate to ask about flexible working options during the interview. It shows that you’re proactive and interested in finding a balance that works for both you and the company. Plus, it’s a great way to gauge their openness to accommodating your needs.
