Assistant Planner

We are recruiting for an Assistant Planner to join us here at Octavius.

We are a leading civil engineering organisation delivering safe, sustainable, and efficient transport solutions across the UK.

You'll be working on…. (what your role and responsibility is)

Supporting the development, monitoring, and updating of project programmes across a variety of highways projects. You'll gain exposure to both tender and delivery stages—learning how to prepare construction phasing and methodologies, and assist in maintaining and reporting on project progress.

More specifically, you will:

• Support the development and updating of programmes for multiple projects across different disciplines.
• Collaborate with the Head of Planning to publish regular programme updates.
• Assist in producing commercially compliant programmes in line with contract requirements.
• Work closely with project managers, site teams, and commercial managers to ensure all changes are reflected in the programme.
• Help identify and evaluate project risks, not just in planning but across the project lifecycle.
• Contribute to assurance by supporting compliance with Octavius and client policies and procedures.
• Build strong working relationships within a small, agile planning team and across wider project teams.
• Promote continuous improvement by identifying more efficient ways of working and encouraging innovation.
• Put safety, health, wellbeing, and sustainability at the heart of your work, and actively participate in CSR initiatives.

You'll work with… (because relationships are important)

A team of highly motivated, dedicated professionals delivering projects across a variety of frameworks with clients such as National Highways and local authorities. You'll collaborate closely with planners, project managers, commercial teams, and site teams to ensure successful project outcomes.

You'll receive…. (because we value you)

We offer a competitive rewards package, including a Company Car scheme, Private Healthcare, Pension, Life Assurance cover, 25 days Annual Leave (and a day off for your birthday). You'll also have access to Hybrid working where possible, an enhanced Paternity & Maternity package and the opportunity to develop yourself personally and professionally.

About you…. (what you are skilled at)

You're highly organised and thrive when managing multiple priorities. You're a natural relationship builder who communicates clearly and confidently at all levels. You enjoy solving problems creatively and are resilient when faced with changing priorities or challenges.

You're someone who:

• Has a keen eye for detail and a strong desire to learn and grow.
• Brings a flexible, can-do attitude and works well both independently and as part of a team.
• Is curious and proactive—asking thoughtful questions and seeking better ways of doing things.
• Is passionate about delivering high-quality work and meeting customer expectations.
• Understands the importance of safety, wellbeing, and sustainability in everything you do.

You'll bring… (your wealth of experience & qualifications)

• Some experience or exposure to the construction industry (preferred)
• A good understanding of construction processes and sequencing
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Confidence to engage with internal teams and external stakeholders
• A good level of IT skills
• Familiarity with planning software such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or Asta PowerProject is desirable (training will be provided)
• Prior knowledge of planning-related contract clauses is a plus

Inclusion and diversity are important to us, we are an equal opportunities employer and value difference. We want and will continue to build an inclusive environment where our people thrive. We firmly believe constantly striving to build a truly diverse workforce is what makes us a strong business and will enable us to continue to solve important problems and deliver unrivalled value to both our customers and clients. If you need any specialist support throughout your application, we will work with you where we can to support your journey with us.