Project Planner

Help shape the future of water and wastewater services across the North West

At United Utilities, every project we deliver helps protect our environment, strengthen communities and provide essential services for millions of customers.

We're looking for a Project Planner to join our PMO team and play a critical role in planning and optimising some of our most important infrastructure programmes. If you're passionate about turning complex information into clear plans, collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders and helping projects succeed, we'd love to hear from you.

This is an opportunity to work in a supportive, inclusive environment where your ideas are valued and your development is encouraged.

What you'll do

As a Project Planner, you'll work closely with Project Managers, Project Controllers, contractors and delivery teams to develop and maintain robust project schedules that support successful project delivery.

You'll:

• Develop and maintain project and programme schedules across a range of capital projects.
• Collaborate with project teams and contractors to create realistic, deliverable plans.
• Monitor project performance against agreed milestones and identify opportunities to improve delivery.
• Analyse programme data, assess risks and support solutions that minimise delays.
• Communicate schedule performance and critical path impacts clearly to stakeholders.
• Coordinate activities across multiple work packages and delivery partners.
• Support forecasting, reporting and performance measurement activities, including Earned Value Management where appropriate.
• Review and challenge project plans constructively to ensure accurate and reliable programme data.
• Work with project teams to identify emerging risks, resolve issues and improve project outcomes.

What we're looking for

We're interested in hearing from people who can bring planning expertise, strong analytical skills and a collaborative approach.

You'll likely have experience in some of the following areas:

• Project planning, programme controls or project scheduling.
• Developing and managing complex project schedules.
• Using Primavera P6 or similar planning software.
• Infrastructure, construction, engineering or major project environments.
• Project controls and forecasting techniques.
• Working with multiple stakeholders to coordinate activities and resolve challenges.

You'll also be someone who:

• Enjoys solving problems and finding practical solutions.
• Builds positive relationships and works well with diverse teams.
• Communicates complex information in a clear and engaging way.
• Is comfortable challenging constructively to improve outcomes.
• Has excellent attention to detail while keeping sight of the bigger picture.
• Thrives in a collaborative environment.

A degree, project controls qualification or equivalent relevant experience would be beneficial.

Why join United Utilities?

We know that people do their best work when they're supported, valued and able to be themselves.

That's why we offer:

• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after four years, plus bank holidays.
• Competitive pension with up to 14% employer contribution.
• Performance-related bonus.
• Company-funded healthcare plan.
• Life assurance.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Learning and development opportunities to help you grow your career.
• A supportive and inclusive culture where everyone can thrive.

Inclusion at United Utilities

At United Utilities, we believe diversity of thought, background and experience helps us deliver better outcomes for our customers and communities.

We're proud to be recognised as one of the UK's Inclusive Top 50 Employers. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to achieve their potential.

If you're excited about this role but don't meet every requirement listed, we'd still encourage you to apply. We'd love to understand the skills, experiences and perspectives you could bring to our team.

About United Utilities

United Utilities provides water and wastewater services to millions of customers across the North West. Every day, we work to protect the environment, support local communities and deliver services that make a real difference to people's lives. We're committed to building a greener, stronger and more sustainable future for the region.