Planning Apprenticeship

A Trainee Planner (Professional Apprenticeship) at Laing O’Rourke where you support project planning, scheduling, and coordination of MEP works using tools like Primavera P6 and Asta Powerproject on live construction projects.

We're looking for bright and motivated school leavers who will bring energy, new ideas and a fresh perspective to help us become the recognised leader and transform the construction and engineering industry.   

Role Overview 

As a trainee planner, you will work with a project planner to provide planning support. This role will have a high degree of learning as you hone your planning and interpersonal skills.

MEP Planning & Coordination

Develop a foundational understanding of MEP systems, installation sequences, and construction techniques.

Support the coordination of all MEP planning activities across the project. Assist in integrating MEP works into the master programme, ensuring alignment with overall project milestones. Work closely with the planning and site teams to identify interfaces between MEP and other trades and coordinate of offsite manufacture with onsite installation needs.

Key Deliverables and Accountabilities

• Planning & Scheduling Support

• Assist in developing project-specific planning and control systems

• Support the preparation of detailed MEP schedules, identifying key constraints, dependencies, and critical paths

• Contribute to the development of scheme programmes, progressing towards producing these independently

• Help integrate MEP activities with procurement and material management processes

• Digital & 4D Planning

• Learn and use industry-standard planning software such as Asta Powerproject and/or Primavera P6

• Support the development of 4D planning models (linking programme to 3D models)

• Assist with digital modelling and visualisation of MEP installation sequences

• Monitoring, Reporting & Analysis

• Record site progress, particularly for MEP installations and activities

• Mark up drawings, programmes, and charts to clearly communicate progress and issues

• Assist in producing regular planning reports and updates

• Monitor productivity and collate as-built data for MEP works

• Support the tracking of production outputs (e.g. man-hours, installation rates by system/technique)

Communication & Collaboration

• Liaise with site teams, subcontractors, and internal departments to gather and share information

• Communicate progress, risks, and issues relating to MEP works

• Work collaboratively with engineering, design, and construction teams to ensure accurate planning inputs

Learning & Development

• Develop core planning skills within a live project environment

• Gain experience in construction sequencing, project controls, and MEP coordination

• Progress towards independently producing detailed, realistic project programmes

Skills & Attributes

• Interest in construction, engineering, and MEP systems

• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills

• Good communication and teamwork abilities

• Willingness to learn and develop technical and digital planning skills

• Basic IT skills, with an interest in planning software and digital tools

Apprenticeship Level: BSc (Hons) Construction and the Built Environment | Heriot-Watt University 

Entry requirements 

We are looking for candidates who meet the following criteria:  

• SQA Highers at ABBB or equivalent;  

• Scottish Baccalaureate Pass;  

• Baccalaureate 29 points.  

• Foundation Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering in conjunction with SQA Highers at AAB.  

• A combination of qualifications totalling 96 SCQF credits at level 6, or Minimum 126 UCAS points 

The Laing O'Rourke Professional Apprenticeship Programme - what can you expect? 

Our professional apprenticeship programme has been developed to ensure you are supported throughout every step of your journey, combining work-based experience with off-the-job training. You will be stretched, challenged, and supported by a business that views your professional development and formal qualification as a priority.  

Our programme will provide a fully funded day or block release degree apprenticeship in your chosen vocation, while working as a full time Laing O'Rourke employee. It will also include a series of bespoke development modules, and technical training opportunities, strategically placed to support you at key stages of your apprenticeship journey.

During the programme you will work across a range of projects, which will offer the breadth and variety to support your occupational competency and will contribute towards the achievement of your apprenticeship and professional accreditation. 

 The Professional Apprenticeship Programme will commence in September 2026 

 We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.