Lead Scheduler / Planning Manager

Overview

A prominent Owner's Representative firm supporting major pharmaceutical and life sciences manufacturers seeks a Lead Scheduler / Planning Manager to join the project delivery team based in Cork. This role involves significant responsibility in the coordination and execution of major capital investment projects ranging from equipment installations and modifications to large manufacturing and infrastructure developments.

Key Responsibilities

• Create, update, and oversee integrated project schedules throughout all project stages.
• Set up schedule governance frameworks, management procedures, and standards.
• Organize and lead planning sessions with project stakeholders.
• Integrate engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, qualification, validation, and operational readiness tasks into cohesive programs.
• Review and assess contractor schedules for adherence to project criteria.
• Conduct critical path analyses and identify scheduling risks and opportunities.
• Formulate recovery and mitigation strategies to address delays.
• Generate reports, dashboards, and executive-level schedule updates within project controls.
• Analyze productivity patterns, scheduling performance, and forecasts.
• Support change management by evaluating impacts from scope modifications.
• Lead planning meetings, offering expert guidance to project teams and senior stakeholders.
• Maintain direct engagement with client leadership, project managers, design consultants, and contractors.

Experience and Expertise

• Solid background in project planning, scheduling, or controls with relevant years of experience.
• Experience working on large-scale projects in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, life sciences, semiconductor, mission-critical, or industrial sectors.
• Strong familiarity with EPCM, EPC, and construction project delivery methodologies.
• Proven skill in developing and managing complex integrated master schedules.
• Competency in reviewing contractor programs and evaluating schedule performance.
• Understanding of engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning sequencing processes.
• Excellent stakeholder communication and management skills.
• Capability to influence cross-disciplinary teams and senior leadership.

Technical Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in Primavera P6 scheduling software.
• Experience with schedule risk analysis tools such as Acumen Risk, Safran, or Primavera Risk Analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of Critical Path Method (CPM) scheduling.
• Experience applying Earned Value Management (EVM) and project controls reporting.
• Strong reporting and data analytics capabilities preferred.
• Familiarity with Power BI reporting tools is advantageous.

Education and Certification

• A degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Project Management, or a relevant field is required.
• Professional certifications such as PMI-SP, AACE, PMP, Planning Engineer, or equivalents are beneficial.

Rewards and Benefits

Enjoy a competitive salary package complemented by a comprehensive suite of health, wellbeing, financial, and lifestyle benefits. Opportunities abound for continuous professional development and training. Benefit from a hybrid working environment with international remote work possibilities and flexible vacation policies, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

About the Employer

AtkinsRéalis is a global leader in engineering services focusing on nuclear and infrastructure transformation. By connecting people, data, and technology, the company aims to innovate energy systems and infrastructure worldwide. The firm fosters an inclusive culture embracing diversity, flexible working, and professional growth, committed to equal opportunity employment.

Additional Information

The employer is dedicated to cultivating an environment where every individual feels valued and included, offering family-friendly and inclusive policies, flexible working arrangements, and active employee resource groups. Applications are welcomed from candidates of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and abilities.