Project Controllers / Planning Engineers - Permanent

Westlakes Recruit are currently recruiting for a number of project controls opportunities on a permanent basis to support a major water and utilities programme based in Warrington.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Project Controls Consultants to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project controls, including scheduling, cost management, risk analysis, and performance monitoring, ideally in large-scale projects across a variety of industries (e.g utilities, infrastructure etc.). The Project Controls Consultants will work closely with project teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with client specifications.
Key Responsibilities:

Project Controls Management: Lead the development and implementation of project control systems and processes, including scheduling, budgeting, cost tracking, and risk management.
Schedule Management: Develop, monitor, and update detailed project schedules using industry-standard tools (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project). Ensure the timely completion of milestones and deadlines.
Cost Management: Monitor and report on project budgets, including the tracking of costs, change orders, and forecasts. Work with project teams to implement corrective actions when necessary.
Risk Management: Identify potential risks and issues impacting project performance. Develop and implement risk mitigation plans and provide guidance on how to handle emerging project challenges.
Reporting & Documentation: Prepare and present regular project performance reports to senior leadership and clients, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed about project progress, risks, and financial health.
Stakeholder Communication: Act as a liaison between project teams, contractors, and clients, ensuring that all parties are aligned and informed about project requirements, timelines, and issues.
Process Improvement: Continuously assess and improve project controls processes, recommending best practices to optimize project execution and delivery.
Team Mentorship: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior project controls staff, fostering an environment of learning and development within the team.
Must-Haves:

Strong experience in project controls, planning, or cost engineering roles within infrastructure, energy, or construction sectors.
Proficiency in Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or other scheduling tools.
Excellent understanding of cost management, change control, and risk management principles.
Working knowledge of earned value management (EVM) processes and techniques.
Familiarity with project governance and assurance processes.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an attention to detail.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.

My profile

Desirable:

Degree in engineering, project management, or a related discipline.
Relevant certifications (e.g., APM, PMI, PRINCE2, or AACE International).
Experience with data visualization tools like Power BI or Tableau.
Knowledge of risk analysis tools such as Primavera Risk Analysis, @Risk, or Safran.
Experience working on high-value, large-scale infrastructure or energy projects