1 What does a construction planner do?

A construction planner is involved in every stage of a construction project, from the initial design and feasibility study to the final handover and commissioning. A construction planner works closely with architects, engineers, contractors, suppliers, and clients to develop and coordinate the project plan, which includes the scope, objectives, timeline, resources, costs, risks, and quality control. A construction planner also uses various software tools and methods, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Critical Path Method (CPM), and Gantt charts, to create and update the project schedule, track the progress and performance, and communicate the status and issues to the stakeholders. A construction planner may also supervise and mentor junior staff, conduct site visits and inspections, and prepare reports and documentation.

2 What education and training do you need?

There is no fixed educational requirement to become a construction planner, but most employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field, such as construction management, civil engineering, architecture, or project management. Some employers may also accept candidates who have a diploma or certificate in construction planning or a related discipline, combined with several years of experience in the construction industry. Additionally, some employers may require or prefer candidates who have a professional certification, such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or the Project Management Professional (PMP), which demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field. To obtain these certifications, you need to meet certain criteria, such as education, experience, and exam scores.

3 What skills and qualities do you need?

To succeed as a construction planner, you need to have a range of technical and soft skills, as well as personal qualities, that enable you to perform your tasks effectively and efficiently. For instance, a construction planner must possess technical skills such as a solid understanding of the construction processes, materials, equipment, codes, and standards. They should also be proficient in using various software tools and methods for planning, scheduling, and monitoring construction projects. Analytical skills are also essential in order to analyze and interpret complex data. Furthermore, communication skills are necessary for communicating clearly and concisely with different stakeholders. Additionally, organizational skills are needed to plan and prioritize tasks while managing time and resources. Problem-solving skills are also important for addressing any potential or actual problems that may affect the project. Creativity is also key in order to think creatively and innovatively to optimize the project plan and schedule.

4 What career opportunities and challenges can you expect?

As a construction planner, you can expect to have various career opportunities and challenges, depending on your level of experience, education, certification, and specialization. Working for different types of employers, such as construction companies or government agencies, and on different types of projects, such as residential or infrastructure, you may find yourself in different locations both locally and internationally. You may also advance to higher positions such as senior construction planner or project manager, or become a self-employed consultant. However, the complexity and uncertainty of construction projects can bring high pressure and stress when trying to meet deadlines and expectations. Dealing with frequent changes due to weather or design modifications can make it difficult to adjust the project plan and schedule. Additionally, managing multiple projects simultaneously while keeping up with the latest industry trends can be a challenge.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?