Senior Planner

Avocet recruitment ltd; Exeter; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm is seeking a Senior Planner to join their team in Exeter for a major new build project. The role involves preparing programmes, utilizing advanced planning tools, and collaborating closely with project teams to ensure successful project delivery. Candidates should have experience in project planning within construction and strong skills in Powerproject. This position offers excellent career development opportunities and a chance to influence significant project outcomes.

Benefits

Excellent support and mentorship

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in project planning within construction, ideally with a main contractor.
• Strong capability with planning software like Powerproject.
• Ability to present confidently to clients.

Responsibilities

• Prepare design and construction programmes using Elecosoft Powerproject.
• Develop logistics plans and 3D modelling as required.
• Monitor project progress and report discrepancies.

Skills

Project planning experience

Powerproject proficiency

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Problem-solving skills

Tools

Powerproject

Synchro

Job description

Overview

Senior Planner – Major New Build Project | Tier 1 Contractor

Location: Exteter

Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits

Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Are you looking to take the next step in your planning career with a forward-thinking Tier 1 contractor? We are delivering a landmark new-build project and are seeking a talented Planner to join our high-performing team. You’ll be supported by a Regional Planner, work alongside an experienced project planner, and partner closely with the Project Director to drive effective, efficient project delivery.

This is an opportunity to work on a major scheme with genuine influence, career development, and exposure to cutting-edge planning tools and methodologies.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Programme Planning & Controls: Preparing design, procurement and construction programmes using Elecosoft Powerproject for pre-qualifications, tenders and live projects; selecting appropriate planning techniques and construction sequences for each phase; analysing the site and local environment to determine logistics strategies and resource requirements.
• Digital & Visual Planning: Using specialist planning software, including Synchro or similar platforms; preparing logistics plans and phasing layouts using PowerPoint; 3D modelling experience is advantageous but not essential.
• Methodology & Resourcing: Writing method statements and developing detailed working programmes; scheduling labour and determining major plant and access equipment including scaffold schedules, tower crane utilisation and temporary works; agreeing subcontractor trade programmes and ensuring alignment with the master schedule.
• Project Monitoring & Reporting: Monitoring progress throughout pre-construction and construction stages, comparing actual performance to the planned programme; reporting findings, forecasting outcomes, and recommending recovery solutions when required; recording key events for entitlement claims and creating graphical outputs to represent impacts and progress.
• Team Collaboration & Continuous Improvement: Working collaboratively with project teams, adjusting plans as needed; providing planning advice on methodologies, systems of work and sequencing; preparing project feedback reports and helping develop company planning processes and procedures.
• Coordinating trade contractors' programmes on site; supporting and mentoring junior planners and helping raise planning awareness across site teams.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in project planning within construction (main contractor experience ideal).
• Strong capability with Powerproject; experience with Synchro is beneficial.
• Ability to communicate clearly and present confidently at client interviews.
• A proactive mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• A collaborative team player who enjoys working closely with operations and site teams.

Why Join Us?

• Work on a major flagship project with a Tier 1 contractor.
• Be part of a progressive team that values innovation, digital construction and continuous improvement.
• Excellent support, mentorship and career development opportunities.
• Opportunity to influence delivery on a complex, high-profile scheme