Project Controls / Planning Specialist (Outside IR35), Reading

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 Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain and control integrated master schedules (IMS/DCS) across a large, complex programme
• Apply Critical Path Method (CPM) to identify dependencies, risks, delays, and recovery actions
• Work closely with senior programme controls and delivery stakeholders across UK and international partners
• Identify and manage assumptions, dependencies, exclusions (ADEs)
• Produce clear schedule performance reporting and scenario analysis for senior leadership
• Ensure alignment between schedule, risk, and programme delivery objectives
• Support proactive schedule optimisation and conflict resolution across multiple workstreams

Essential Experience

• Proven background in Project Controls/Planning/Master Schedule Management on large, complex defence or aerospace programmes
• Strong hands-on experience with Primavera P6 (certification preferred)
• Experience working within MOD, defence primes, or regulated aerospace environments
• Deep understanding of programme scheduling, critical path analysis, and integrated planning frameworks
• Strong stakeholder management across technical and non-technical audiences
• Ability to operate effectively in multi-partner, international delivery environments

Desirable

• APM/APMP certification
• Experience working on multi-national defence or aviation programmes
• Familiarity with programme governance frameworks in regulated environments

Must-Have Attributes

• Accuracy and exceptional attention to detail
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Confident communicator with senior stakeholders
• Able to work at pace in high-security, high-accountability environments