Durban: Planner – Civil Construction KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa

Job Purpose The Planner is responsible for developing, monitoring, and updating detailed project programmes to ensure civil construction projects are delivered on time, within scope, and in accordance with contractual requirements. The role provides strategic planning support across all phases of the project lifecycle. Key Responsibilities Develop and manage detailed, fully integrated construction programmes using Primavera / MS Project / CCS. Establish work breakdown structures (WBS) aligned with construction methodology and contract scope. Monitor, analyse, and update project schedules based on actual site progress. Identify critical path activities, potential delays, and programme risks, and implement mitigation strategies. Prepare short-term look-ahead schedules (26 weeks) for site execution teams. Resource-load programmes for labour, plant, and materials where required. Support tender planning, baseline programme development, and claims-related schedules. Produce accurate progress reports, schedule variance analysis, and management dashboards. Participate in project, progress, and client meetings, providing expert planning input. Liaise with project managers, engineers, site agents, subcontractors, and clients. Ensure programmes align with contractual, safety, and quality requirements. Minimum Requirements (Must Have) Applicants must have hands-on experience within the civil construction industry . Candidates from a consulting-only background will not be considered . National Diploma or Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Minimum 10 years proven experience as a Planner within the civil construction industry (non-negotiable). Extensive experience on large-scale civil infrastructure projects such as roads, earthworks, pipelines, water, and structures. Advanced proficiency in CCS, Primavera P6, MS Project experience advantageous. Strong understanding of construction methodologies, sequencing, and critical path analysis. Valid drivers licence and willingness to travel to project sites across KZN. Skills & Competencies Advanced planning and scheduling expertise Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills High attention to detail and accuracy Ability to work independently and under pressure Strong commercial and contractual awareness Desirable Knowledge of NEC and/or FIDIC contracts Experience with cost and resource-loaded programmes Established experience working on projects within the KZN region