Principal Planning Engineer

Are you a commercially minded Planning Engineer looking to take the lead on major infrastructure projects? We’re currently recruiting for a Principal Planning Engineer to join a dynamic and forward-thinking team. This role is ideal for someone confident managing their own projects while collaborating effectively across teams. You'll be pivotal in delivering programmes throughout the full project lifecycle – from pre-contract planning through to construction and handover. Key Responsibilities: * Lead planning activities under the direction of the Project Controls Manager. * Develop and manage project schedules across the full lifecycle – Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning. * Monitor, analyse, and report on progress, ensuring accurate forecasting of key deliverables. * Collaborate with Commercial and Project Controls teams to deliver clear schedule insights. * Identify risks, assess impacts, and perform ‘what-if’ analyses to inform strategic decisions. * Actively support recruitment for the planning function as new contracts commence. * Ensure schedule changes are effectively tracked and managed. * Provide regular reporting and updates to internal teams and stakeholders. Essential Experience & Skills: * Proven experience in project planning across full lifecycle phases. * Strong understanding of the relationship between time, cost, and commercial outcomes. * Ability to challenge and mitigate schedule variances effectively. * Proficient in Earned Value Analysis and schedule forecasting. * Skilled in MS Office and planning tools (Primavera P6 or equivalent). * Strong analytical skills and confident communicator. Desirable: * Experience in highly regulated sectors (e.g., nuclear, defence, or rail). * Professional membership (e.g., ACostE, APM, ICE). If you're looking to take the next step in your planning career and contribute to exciting, high-profile infrastructure projects, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or contact James on (phone number removed) for a confidential discussion