Senior MEP Planner OR Planning Manager – Data Centres | London
A leading construction main contractor is seeking an experienced Senior MEP Planner / Planning Manager to support the successful delivery of major Data Centre projects across London and the wider UK market.
This position will play a key role in the final delivery stages of large scale mission-critical developments, with a particular focus on MEP installation, Commissioning, Integrated Systems testing, Client handover, and Project Close Out. The role offers the opportunity to work on technically complex, high-value projects within fast-paced hyperscale and enterprise Data Centre environments.
The successful candidate will work closely with project leadership teams, commissioning managers, consultants, subcontractors, and client stakeholders to develop and manage detailed commissioning and completion programmes, ensuring critical milestones and operational deadlines are achieved.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and maintain detailed construction, commissioning, and close-out programmes across all phases of project delivery.
* Manage planning activities associated with MEP systems, energisation, testing & commissioning, integrated systems testing (IST), and phased handovers.
* Coordinate programme interfaces between construction, commissioning, QA/QC, and commercial teams to ensure alignment across project deliverables.
* Monitor project progress against key milestones, analyse productivity trends, and identify programme risks or recovery opportunities.
* Lead programme review meetings and planning workshops with project teams, subcontractors, consultants, and client representatives.
* Produce detailed progress reports, lookaheads, dashboards, and schedule analysis for senior stakeholders.
* Support project close-out activities including completion tracking, snagging status, documentation management, and turnover readiness.
* Ensure health, safety, quality, and operational requirements are fully integrated into commissioning and delivery programmes.
* Apply planning and project controls methodologies including critical path analysis, earned value management, and schedule performance reporting.
* Support pre-construction and tender planning activities for future mission-critical projects.
* Mentor junior planners and contribute towards continuous improvement within the planning function.
* Promote sustainable delivery practices and support carbon reduction objectives throughout project execution.
Requirements
* Significant planning experience within the construction or engineering sector, ideally within Data Centres or other mission-critical environments.
* Proven experience managing MEP, commissioning, and project completion programmes on large-scale developments.
* Advanced proficiency using Primavera P6 and strong knowledge of planning and project controls techniques.
* Strong understanding of commissioning sequences, systems integration, handover processes, and operational readiness requirements.
* Experience using earned value management, progress measurement, and schedule risk analysis methodologies.
* Good understanding of construction contracts, procurement routes, and project delivery models.
* Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and communicate effectively across all project levels.
* Strong commercial awareness and understanding of programme impact on project performance and profitability.
* Degree qualified in Engineering, Construction Management, Building Services, or a related discipline is preferred.
The client is open to both permanent and freelance options, with the latter
paying up to £650pd Outside IR35.