Senior Planner- HSR

Not Specified | Permanent, full-time
Ref: LZ64 (2 weeks ago)
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Planner to lead planning and scheduling activities for a major rail project in the UAE. This role requires extensive railway infrastructure planning experience and the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary schedules across civil works, stations, tunnels, bridges, and track installation.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules using Primavera P6 for all phases including design, procurement, construction, testing, and commissioning
  • Lead planning activities for civil works, stations, tunnels, viaducts, bridges, track works, and systems integration
  • Prepare baseline schedules, monthly progress reports, and look-ahead schedules
  • Conduct critical path analysis and identify schedule risks and mitigation strategies
  • Coordinate planning activities with joint venture partners, subcontractors, and design consultants
  • Monitor and report on project progress, including earned value analysis and productivity metrics
  • Prepare time impact analysis for variations, delays, and claims
  • Interface with client representatives and consultants on planning and progress matters
  • Develop resource-loaded schedules and cash flow projections
  • Facilitate planning workshops and coordination meetings with all project stakeholders
  • Ensure integration between design schedules, construction sequences, and commissioning programs
  • Review and approve subcontractor schedules and ensure alignment with master schedule
Required Qualifications & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
  • Minimum 15 years of planning experience, with at least 10 years in railway projects (high-speed rail, metro, or conventional rail)
  • Proven experience in tunnel and bridge construction planning and scheduling
  • Experience working on major infrastructure projects in the UAE or GCC region highly preferred
  • Demonstrated experience in joint venture (JV) project environments
  • Expert proficiency in Primavera P6 (Essential)
  • Strong knowledge of planning methodologies, critical path method (CPM), and earned value management (EVM)
  • Experience with design-build contract planning and execution
  • Thorough understanding of railway construction sequences and interfaces between disciplines
Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional planning certifications (PMI-SP, PSP, or equivalent)
  • Bachelor degree or above in Project Management or related field
  • High-speed rail project experience 
  • Metro or light rail project planning experience
  • Experience with major infrastructure projects 
  • Proficiency in additional planning software (MS Project, Asta Powerproject)
  • Familiarity with FIDIC contracts and claims management
  • Multilingual capabilities 
Technical Skills
  • Advanced Primavera P6 (scheduling, resource management, earned value)
  • Microsoft Project Suite (Excel, PowerPoint for reporting)
  • Understanding of BIM/4D scheduling integration
  • Time impact analysis and delay analysis methodologies
  • Resource leveling and optimization techniques
Personal Attributes
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
  • Proactive approach to identifying and resolving schedule conflicts
  • Cultural awareness and ability to work effectively in multinational teams
  • Strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilities