GRAHAM Academy - Student Planner (Year Out Placement)

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 Year Out Planner to join our team in Northern Ireland as part of your university placement year.

As a Year Out 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 placement offers the opportunity to apply your academic learning in a live project environment, develop technical and problem-solving skills, and gain exposure to industry-leading planning tools and construction methodologies.

If you're currently studying a construction-related degree and are looking to gain practical industry experience, this is an excellent opportunity to kick-start your 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

• Currently studying a degree in Architectural Technology, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrate strong communication skills.
• Interested in developing a career within construction planning and project delivery.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Right to work in the UK.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable:

• An appreciation of Health & Safety practices.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Understanding of 3D modelling, design software, or gaming engines (helpful but not essential).
• Understanding of the fit-out or construction industry.
• Able to demonstrate problem solving.
• Experience with planning software (e.g. Microsoft Project or Asta Powerproject).

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.

Benefits

• Car Allowance
• Subsidised Private Medical Cover
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Living away from home allowance (where appropriate)
• Contributory Pension
• 35 Days' annual leave (Including Public Holidays)

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