Project Planner Copello are working with a defence client who are looking for an influential Project Planner to deliver complex, high-value technical programmes. This is not a traditional PMO reporting role, we need someone who can actively shape the plan, challenge assumptions, and work closely with project leads to ensure programmes are set up for success. You will be embedded within a multidisciplinary project team and will play a critical role in building robust schedules, identifying risks, driving progress, and supporting informed decision-making. This role suits someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys having real ownership and impact on project direction. Key Responsibilities * Develop, manage, and maintain detailed project schedules across the full lifecycle, ensuring alignment with scope, resources, and technical requirements. * Work closely with Project Managers, engineering leads, and operations to assess progress, validate assumptions, and provide meaningful schedule insight. * Drive planning workshops and support the development of work breakdown structures, dependencies, milestones, and critical paths. * Proactively identify schedule risks, opportunities, and scenario options, advising the project team on potential impacts and mitigations. * Produce clear, actionable reporting that supports decision-making rather than simply generating data for compliance. * Ensure planning processes are fit-for-purpose for a growing business unit, helping to shape best practice and introduce effective tools and techniques. * Contribute to project governance activities including change control, baseline management, resource analysis, and schedule performance reviews. Essential Experience * Proven experience as a Project Planner or Integrated Master Scheduler within engineering, aerospace, defence, technology, or similarly complex project environments. * Strong practical experience with planning tools, especially Primavera P6 and an understanding of earned value / schedule performance metrics. * Ability to challenge, influence, and collaborate with technical and project leads, not just maintain data. * Experience developing schedules from the ground up, ideally in a fast-paced or early stage programme environment. * Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and turn it into meaningful insight. Desirable * Exposure to new product development, systems engineering, or multi-disciplinary hardware/software projects. * Experience supporting bids, proposals, or the mobilisation of new programmes. * Understanding of project governance frameworks such as APMP, APM, or PMI. Please note that these projects are UKEO and applicants must be eligible for SC Clearance and UK Born nationals. If you feel you have the right skills and experience please apply now and we will be in touch for a further conversation