A construction planner is responsible for organising and scheduling the various stages of building projects. This role involves creating detailed timetables, ensuring that resources such as materials, equipment, and workers are available when needed, and coordinating activities to keep projects on track. Construction planners use specialist software to map out timelines, monitor progress, and adapt plans as needed to address challenges or delays. The role requires strong organisational skills, an eye for detail, and the ability to communicate well with different teams, including architects, engineers, and site managers. Construction planners often work both in office settings and on-site to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
Construction planners in the UK typically earn between £30,000 and £55,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are around 3,500 construction planner positions advertised annually across the UK.
The UK construction sector is expected to grow by 3.2 percent annually until 2027, increasing demand for skilled planners.
Focuses on planning and organising timelines for building houses and other residential properties, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
Specialises in scheduling and coordinating construction work for offices, shopping centres, or other commercial buildings, working closely with architects and contractors.
Works on planning the construction of public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and railways, ensuring projects meet safety and regulatory standards.
Achieve good grades in subjects like Maths, English, and Science as these are often required for further study or apprenticeships in construction.
Some employers may require at least five GCSEs at grades 4-9 including Maths and English. Science and technology subjects are also useful if you want to pursue a technical route such as engineering or construction planning.
Pursue a Level 3 qualification such as a BTEC Diploma in Construction, T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning, or A Levels with relevant subjects.
BTEC and T Level courses offer both classroom learning and practical experience, which is highly valued by employers. Alternatively, you can study for A Levels and then progress to a university degree or higher apprenticeship later on.
You can either apply for a university degree in construction management, civil engineering, or project management, or complete a higher or degree apprenticeship in a relevant field.
Many construction planners enter the profession through degree apprenticeships, which combine on-the-job experience with academic study, or by completing a university degree followed by graduate training.
Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience through work placements, internships, or entry-level jobs on construction sites.
Experience as a site assistant, trainee planner, or even as a general labourer can help you understand how construction projects operate. Many companies offer summer placements or part-time work for students.
Learn about construction processes, health and safety regulations, and project management tools used in the industry.
You might shadow experienced planners, attend industry events, or complete short courses in construction health and safety (such as a CSCS card). Familiarity with software like Microsoft Project or Primavera can also be helpful.
Start applying for junior or assistant construction planner positions with construction firms, consultancies, or local authorities.
Tailor your CV to highlight your qualifications, relevant experience, and skills such as organisation, communication, and problem-solving. Prepare for interviews by researching the company and practising common questions.
Pursue further training, such as professional certifications or memberships, to advance your career.
Consider working towards memberships with organisations like the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) or the Association for Project Management (APM). Continuing to develop your technical and management skills will help you progress to senior roles.
Oversees construction sites to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
Manages costs and contracts for construction projects, ensuring value for money while maintaining quality.
Leads construction projects, coordinating all aspects from planning through to completion.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Construction Planner. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Both Construction Planners and Town Planners are involved in planning and organising construction projects within urban and rural environments. They require similar skills in project scheduling, resource management, and understanding land use regulations to ensure projects are completed efficiently and in compliance with planning policies.
You can get into this job through:
You can study for a degree or a postgraduate qualification accredited by The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
Subjects include:
You can do postgraduate qualification in planning if you have a degree in an unrelated subject.
You'll usually need:
You could apply to do a Chartered Town Planner Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
This can take around 5 years to complete and is a mix of on-the-job training and study at university. Contact apprenticeship training providers for details.
Most people following this route have:
You could start as a town planning assistant with an organisation and take further training while you work.
You'll need the backing of your employer and you'll combine practical experience with part-time or distance learning study towards an accredited planning qualification.
You'll find it useful to get as much work experience as possible. This will give you a better understanding of the career, and the contacts you make may help you to find paid work.
You can search for companies listed by The Royal Town Planning Institute or contact your local council to ask about opportunities.
You could join The Royal Town Planning Institute for networking, events and professional development training opportunities.
You can find out more about careers in town planning from The Royal Town Planning Institute.
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