Planning & Cost Control Lead

About SSE

SSE is a leading engineering consultancy celebrated for delivering innovative, sustainable, and quality-led solutions to iconic infrastructure and building projects. With an outstanding reputation in structural and civil engineering, SSE is passionate about nurturing an inclusive, supportive workplace where talented professionals can thrive and grow. At SSE, you will shape resilient, future-ready communities and infrastructure, contributing meaningful outcomes for society and the environment.

Role Overview – Planning & Cost Control Leadership | Project Controls & Commercial Excellence

We are seeking an analytical and proactive Planning & Cost Control Lead to join SSE. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to play an instrumental role in leading project controls, schedules, and cost management across diverse engineering projects. You will work in a collaborative and values-driven environment delivering projects that make a real difference. If you are passionate about driving project performance, controlling costs, and supporting delivery excellence, we welcome your expertise at SSE.

Main Responsibilities – Project Planning, Cost Management & Risk Control

• Lead project planning initiatives: Develop, coordinate, and maintain detailed project schedules using industry-recognised software and methodologies.
• Manage cost control systems: Establish, monitor, and report on project budgets, forecasts, expenditure, and variations to ensure projects are delivered within agreed financial parameters.
• Collaborate on cash flow and resource analysis: Work closely with project managers, finance, and technical teams to optimise resource allocation, cash flow projections, and cost recovery.
• Identify and mitigate risks: Proactively identify schedule and cost risks, support robust risk management and change control processes, and provide timely recommendations for corrective action.
• Reporting and performance tracking: Prepare regular internal and client-facing reports, analyse key performance indicators (KPIs), and contribute to project reviews and audits.
• Support commercial compliance: Ensure adherence to contractual, legal, and financial requirements across projects, providing expert input on commercial decision-making and tender reviews.
• Continuous improvement: Drive best practice in project planning and cost control, contributing to the enhancement of tools, processes, and knowledge sharing across SSE.

What You Bring – Project Controls Expertise, Analytical Thinking & Team Collaboration

• Demonstrable experience in planning and cost control for infrastructure, engineering, or construction projects, ideally within a consultancy or contractor environment.
• Proficiency with planning and cost management tools (such as Primavera P6, MS Project, or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of project lifecycle management, budget setting, cost forecasting, schedule analysis, and earned value management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and numerical skills, with keen attention to detail and accuracy.
• Collaborative approach and effective communication, enabling partnership with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work under own initiative, balance competing priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced, evolving project environment.
• Sound knowledge of relevant contracts, commercial principles, and best practices in risk management.
• Relevant academic or professional qualification in engineering, construction management, project controls, finance, or similar discipline.

Why Join SSE – Advance Your Project Controls & Cost Leadership Career

At SSE, your expertise will directly contribute to delivering sustainable infrastructure and high-performance projects. You will benefit from a supportive team culture, ongoing professional development, and opportunities to innovate and grow your career. We actively foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring everyone feels valued and empowered to deliver their best.

Apply to SSE – Shape Sustainable Projects & Drive Excellence in Planning and Cost Control

If you are ready to advance your career in planning and cost control, determined to make a positive impact, and share our commitment to quality, sustainability, and inclusion, we would love to hear from you. SSE welcomes applications from all backgrounds and ensures fair and supportive hiring practices. Join us and help deliver the next generation of inspiring, resilient infrastructure projects across the UK and beyond.