Lead Planner

We are seeking experienced Lead Project Planners to join one of the UK's most significant defence programmes, supporting the delivery of next-generation submarine capabilities for BAE Systems.This is an opportunity to play a critical leadership role within a complex, multi-billion-pound engineering programme that is fundamental to the UK's national security. Working alongside engineering, programme management and commercial teams, you will lead the planning function across major work packages, ensuring robust schedules, accurate reporting and successful programme delivery.
The RoleAs a Lead Project Planner, you will:Lead the development and maintenance of integrated project schedules across complex submarine programmes.Manage planning activities throughout the full project lifecycle.Develop and maintain critical path analyses, milestone tracking and schedule performance reporting.Provide planning expertise and strategic advice to senior programme stakeholders.Identify schedule risks, opportunities and mitigation strategies.Coordinate planning activities across multidisciplinary teams.Produce high-quality progress reports, forecasts and earned value metrics.Drive continuous improvement within project controls and planning processes.Mentor and develop junior planners within the team.

What We're Looking ForYou'll be an experienced planning professional with the ability to work within highly complex engineering or manufacturing environments.
EssentialSignificant experience in project planning within major infrastructure, engineering, defence, aerospace, nuclear, marine or similar complex programmes.Advanced Primavera P6 planning experience.Strong understanding of project controls and scheduling principles.Experience managing integrated master schedules.Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.Ability to analyse complex data and provide meaningful insights to project leadership.Experience leading planning teams or mentoring other planners.
DesirableExperience working on defence or submarine programmes.Knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM).Familiarity with NEC contracts or major programme delivery.Understanding of risk management techniques.Degree or equivalent qualification in Engineering, Project Management or a related discipline.APM, PMI or equivalent professional accreditation.
Why Join?
This is more than just another planning role. You'll be contributing to one of the most technologically advanced engineering programmes in Europe, working alongside some of the industry's leading experts and helping deliver capabilities that protect the UK for generations to come.If you're an experienced Project Planner ready to step into a leadership role on a nationally significant programme, we'd love to hear from you.

Lead Project Planner2 x Positions availableContract - 12 months£63.40 per hour (Inside IR35)Onsite (LA14) Barrow in Furness - North West