GRAHAM Academy - Trainee Planner (Apprentice)

To achieve a Higher Apprenticeship qualification.

Job Summary

At GRAHAM, we are committed to developing future talent. As our Interior Fit-Out Division continues to grow, we have an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Planner to join our team in Northern Ireland.

GRAHAM Academy

Turn your interest in our exciting industry into a fantastic career opportunity with GRAHAM.

As a Trainee Planner, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience supporting the planning and delivery of fast-paced fit-out and refurbishment projects across a range of sectors. Working alongside experienced Planners, Project Managers, and site teams, you'll develop an understanding of how projects are programmed, coordinated, and successfully delivered from inception through to completion.

This apprenticeship offers the opportunity to earn while you learn, combining practical workplace experience with structured training and academic study. You'll develop technical, digital, and problem-solving skills while gaining exposure to industry-leading planning tools and construction methodologies.

If you're interested in construction, technology, and project delivery, this is an excellent opportunity to build a rewarding career with GRAHAM.

Job Description:

Key Responsibilities:

Support the Planning Team in the preparation and maintenance of project and tender programmes.
Assist in monitoring project progress, resources, procurement schedules, and reporting information.
Attend site visits, project meetings, and planning workshops to gain practical experience.
Work closely with project teams to understand construction methodologies and support project delivery.
Contribute to the effective running of the Planning Department while developing planning knowledge and skills.

Technical Competencies

Essential

Be willing to undertake a relevant higher-level apprenticeship programme, such as Construction Engineering with Management, Construction Engineering with Surveying, or a similar built environment qualification.
Strong communication and organisational skills.
Good analytical and problem-solving ability.
Interest in developing a career within construction planning and project delivery.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Right to work in the UK.
Full UK Driving Licence or willingness to work towards obtaining one.

Desirable:

Understanding of construction or interior fit-out projects.
An appreciation of Health & Safety practices.
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Behavioural Competencies

Commercial Awareness: show willingness to build a strong business acumen combined with the creativity and vision to meet customer needs and GRAHAM business requirements.
Effective Communication skills: Able to adapt communication to audience and create detailed written documents and reports. Able to maintain and manage communication links with a variety of stakeholders. Presents a professional image and promotes the Brand.
Customer Focus: Takes time to question and understand the real, underlying needs of the customer, beyond those initially expressed. Always works closely with customers, developing an independent view of their needs and acting in their long term interest
Influencing: Identifies and builds relationships with those who will be useful now and in the future in achieving strategic business objectives.
Initiative: is able to work alone to get results in an effective way. Understands and seeks to minimise waste in resources and processes. Adopts and encourages others to adopt new ways of working. Ability to work unsupervised.
Team Player: Always willing to be involved in other activities to achieve company objectives. Works collaboratively and uses influence to gain resolution of issues. Demonstrates honestly, loyalty and commitment.
Negotiation: Ability to negotiate with both subcontractors and representatives of the Employer to ensure all contractual rights and obligations are realised and protected

The Recruitment Process:

The closing date for applications will be January 2027
Interviews will commence in February 2027.
Successful candidates will be notified in March 2027.
All successful applicants will have joined the business by September 2027, if not before.

Technical Apprenticeship

Technical Apprenticeships are available at a number of entry points from GCSE, A Level or BTEC awards, we are currently seeking to recruit individuals hoping to transition onto a Higher-Level or Degree Level Apprenticeship, which are offered from Level 4 to Level 7.

A Higher Apprenticeship provides a structured pathway to develop your skills while earning a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll gain valuable hands-on experience in the workplace alongside dedicated study time, with all training costs fully funded. These programmes offer a clear route to professional body membership and can lead to rewarding careers.