At a Glance
- Tasks: Support project planning and management to enhance safety and security solutions.
- Company: Join Smiths Detection, a global leader in security technology.
- Benefits: Career growth, inclusive environment, flexible benefits, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to making the world safer.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global safety while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: HNC in Business/Project Management or Technology/Engineering; project planning experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection’s threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.
Smiths Detection, a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.
Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.
This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the‑art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.
Job Description
Project Planner
Smiths Detection are seeking a skilled Project Planner to join our dynamic team—supporting mission‑critical programmes that help make the world a safer place.
Reporting directly to the Project Manager, you will be responsible for establishing, maintaining, and evolving effective planning and project controls across your assigned programme. This includes everything from developing robust Work Breakdown Structures to embedding Earned Value Management methodologies and maintaining schedule integrity throughout delivery.
You’ll partner closely with the Project Controls Manager and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance our delivery capability across the business.
You will play a key role in ensuring project success by:
- Creating and managing essential project artefacts (WBS, CBS, RAM, RACI, schedules, resource plans, risk/change controls, etc.)
- Establishing and maintaining cost, schedule, and resource baselines
- Applying recognised project control practices—including advanced Earned Value Management (EVM), especially within MoD environments
- Developing, maintaining, and narrating full lifecycle project schedules
- Monitoring progress, identifying trends, and driving mitigation actions
- Reviewing 3rd‑party schedules and integrating them into the contract master schedule
- Contributing to Risk & Opportunity Management Plans
- Embedding and managing the Baseline Change Control process
- Conducting monthly variance analysis and coordinating corrective actions
Qualifications
You bring a combination of education, technical skill, analytical ability, and a passion for getting things right.
- HNC in Business, Project Management, Engineering, or related discipline
- Strong understanding of planning methodologies, including EVM
- Demonstrable experience in project planning, risk, and change management
- Proficiency with planning and scheduling tools such as Primavera P6, MS Project, Oracle ERP, Cobra
- Experience with risk and data tools (e.g., Pertmaster, ARM, Power BI)
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
- Strong attention to detail, organisation, and initiative
- Experience working within MoD programmes
- Exposure to complex, technology‑based, integrated systems
Additional Information
We offer…
Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You’ll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You’ll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial andlifestyle perspective.
Join us and work for a world‑leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.
We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.
At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website (Careers - Smiths Group plc )
Project Planner in Hemel Hempstead employer: Smiths Group
At Smiths Detection, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and diverse career advancement opportunities, all within a supportive environment that prioritises safety and wellbeing. Join us in our mission to make the world a safer place while enjoying a flexible benefits package tailored to your lifestyle.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Planner in Hemel Hempstead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Smiths Detection on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the company’s mission and values. Show us how your skills as a Project Planner align with making the world a safer place. Tailor your examples to highlight your experience in project controls and risk management.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to project planning and controls. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you articulate your experience clearly and effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role can leave a positive impression. And remember, apply directly through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Planner in Hemel Hempstead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Project Planner role. Highlight your experience with project controls, risk management, and any relevant tools like Primavera P6 or MS Project. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your work history, focus on specific projects where you've successfully implemented planning methodologies or managed schedules. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact, as this will help us understand your contributions better.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our careers page! This ensures that your application goes directly to us and is reviewed promptly. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiths Group
✨Know Your Project Planning Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of project planning methodologies, especially earned value management. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these techniques in past roles, as this will show your understanding of the key concepts that Smiths Detection values.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Company
Take some time to research Smiths Detection and their role in security technology. Understanding their products and markets will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its mission to make the world a safer place.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific tools and software mentioned in the job description, like Primavera P6 or MS Project. If you have experience with these, be prepared to share examples of how you've used them effectively in your previous projects.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Project Planner, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. During the interview, highlight instances where you've successfully managed relationships or resolved conflicts within a team. This will demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment.
