Assistant Planner

Our client is seeking an Assistant Planner to join their forward thinking and dynamic team, in Essex.

Location: Essex (with travel to sites across London and the South East)
Reporting to: Senior Planner / Planning Manager

About the Role

We are a leading finishing contractor delivering drylining, ceilings, partitions, fit-out and specialist finishing packages across a range of commercial and residential projects. We are seeking an Assistant Planner to support the planning and delivery of multiple projects, ensuring programmes are maintained and project milestones achieved.

The successful candidate will possess strong planning skills, a good understanding of construction sequencing and be proficient in the use of Primavera P6.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development, maintenance and monitoring of project programmes using Primavera P6.
• Produce and update detailed construction programmes, short-term look-ahead schedules and progress reports.
• Monitor programme performance and identify risks, delays and opportunities for improvement.
• Work closely with Project Managers, Site Managers and Commercial teams to capture progress and ensure programme accuracy.
• Support the preparation of recovery programmes and mitigation strategies where required.
• Track procurement, labour and material schedules against project requirements.
• Attend project and planning meetings, providing programme updates and analysis.
• Maintain programme records, revisions and planning documentation.

Essential Requirements:

• Previous experience within a construction planning role or a project support role with planning responsibilities.
• Proficient in Primavera P6.
• Good understanding of construction processes, sequencing and project delivery.
• Experience working within drylining, ceilings, fit-out, finishing or general construction environments.
• Strong analytical, organisational and communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to read and understand construction drawings and specifications.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• HNC/HND or Degree in Construction Management, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of NEC and JCT contracts.
• Experience using Microsoft Project and Power BI.
• Membership of a relevant professional body (APM, CIOB or similar).

Personal Attributes

• Highly organised and detail-oriented.
• Proactive and solutions-focused.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and work to deadlines.
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills.
• Ambitious and keen to develop a career in construction planning.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious planner looking to develop their career within a growing and successful finishing contractor.