GRAHAM Academy - Assistant Planner (Graduate)

Construction, Project Management, Architecture.

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 an Assistant 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 Graduate 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 your understanding of how projects are programmed, coordinated, and successfully delivered from inception through to completion.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to build on your academic studies through practical project experience, structured development, and mentoring from experienced professionals. You'll develop technical, digital, and problem-solving skills while gaining exposure to industry-leading planning tools and construction methodologies.

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

Key Responsibilities:

Support the Planning Team in analysing tender information and preparing tender programmes.
Assist with the development and maintenance of project master programmes.
Support the analysis of labour, plant, and resource requirements.
Assist in the evaluation of construction methods, sequencing, and delivery strategies.
Support the preparation of project preliminaries, procurement schedules, and information release schedules.
Assist in monitoring project progress and the performance of subcontractor packages against programme milestones.
Attend and contribute to client meetings and collaborative subcontractor planning workshops.
Support the coordination, distribution, and communication of project programmes to key stakeholders.
Maintain planning records, progress updates, and production control information.
Work closely with project teams to identify risks, opportunities, and programme improvements.
Contribute to the effective day-to-day operation of the Planning Department while developing planning knowledge and skills.

Technical Competencies 

Essential

Degree qualified (or due to graduate) in Construction Management, Architectural Technology, Construction Engineering, Project Management, or a related built environment discipline.
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.

Desirable:

Previous placement, internship, or work experience within the construction industry.
Understanding of construction or interior fit-out projects.
An appreciation of Health & Safety practices.
Experience using planning or project management software, such as Microsoft Project, Asta Powerproject, or Primavera P6.
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Behavioural Competencies

Commercial Awareness: Demonstrates an interest in developing strong business and commercial acumen. Understands the importance of balancing cost, quality, programme, and client expectations to achieve successful project outcomes.
Effective Communication: Communicates clearly and professionally with clients, consultants, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. Produces accurate reports and tender documentation.
Customer Focus: Seeks to understand client requirements and contribute to solutions that provide long-term value and exceptional project outcomes. Influencing Builds positive relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders to support successful tender and commercial outcomes.
Initiative: Self-motivated and proactive with a willingness to learn. Takes ownership of tasks and actively seeks opportunities to improve processes and add value.
Influencing: Builds credibility and develops productive working relationships internally and externally.
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.

Graduates

We offer a two year programme which focuses on developing your technical and interpersonal skills. In addition, a structured, mentored training programme, aligned to a recognised professional qualification, will set you on the pathway to chartership. Through early responsibility you’ll learn quickly on challenging projects with the opportunity for fast track career advancement.