Project Controls / Planning Specialist (Outside IR35)

We are seeking an experienced SC Cleared Project Controls/Planning/Scheduling Specialist master to support a major next-generation aerospace & defence programme delivered within a highly secure, multi-national consortium environment.

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to a large-scale, mission-critical defence aviation initiative involving complex cross-partner scheduling and integrated programme delivery.** This role is Hybrid-based with WFH option and 4 days per week on-site in Reading will be required.

Day rate

£62 p/h (Outside IR35)SC Clearance Duration

up to 12 months Start

depending on SC transfer Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop, maintain and control integrated master schedules (IMS/DCS) across a large, complex programmeApply Critical Path Method (CPM) to identify dependencies, risks, delays, and recovery actionsWork closely with senior programme controls and delivery stakeholders across UK and international partnersIdentify and manage assumptions, dependencies, exclusions (ADEs)Produce clear schedule performance reporting and scenario analysis for senior leadershipEnsure alignment between schedule, risk, and programme delivery objectivesSupport proactive schedule optimisation and conflict resolution across multiple workstreamsEssential ExperienceProven background in Project Controls/Planning/Master Schedule Management on large, complex defence or aerospace programmesStrong hands-on experience with Primavera P6 (certification preferred)Experience working within MOD, defence primes, or regulated aerospace environmentsDeep understanding of programme scheduling, critical path analysis, and integrated planning frameworksStrong stakeholder management across technical and non-technical audiencesAbility to operate effectively in multi-partner, international delivery environmentsDesirableAPM/APMP certificationExperience working on multi-national defence or aviation programmesFamiliarity with programme governance frameworks in regulated environmentsMust-Have AttributesAccuracy and exceptional attention to detailStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsConfident communicator with senior stakeholdersAble to work at pace in high-security, high-accountability environments