GRAHAM ACADEMY – TRAINEE PLANNER 2026

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Interested in technology, engineering and the built environment? 

At GRAHAM, we are committed to growth and innovation. As our business continues to expand, the Planning Team have opportunities for Technical Apprenticeship and Industrial Placements to join our Building Division.

 

As a Trainee Construction Planner you will;

  • Be part of a planning team that plays a vital role in shaping the built environment, helping to plan and coordinate how complex construction projects are delivered.
  • Gain practical, hands-on experience, build valuable technical and problem-solving skills, and see first-hand how complex ideas on paper are turned into meaningful places that serve communities.
  • Step into the world of major construction projects and learn how to bring them to life using the latest digital tools. From planning how buildings are put together to solving problems before they arise, helping to create the strategy that keeps construction projects on track.

 

If you enjoy computers, design, and figuring out how things are built, this is your chance to shape the future of the world around you.

No experience in planning software is needed; we’ll teach you everything you need to thrive.

Whether you’re completing an industrial placement and returning to your studies with fresh insight or advancing through a fully funded, industry-recognised apprenticeship, you’ll be building the foundations of a rewarding career.

If you’re passionate about Construction and the Built Environment and have an eye for detail, this is your chance to build a career with purpose.

 

Benefits:

Car Allowance; Subsidised Private Medical Cover; Life Assurance Scheme; Living away from home allowance (where appropriate), Contributory Pension, 35 Days annual leave (Including Public Holidays) 

 

The Trainee Planner shall: 

  • Support the Planning team in the analysis of tender information and preparation of tender programmes
  • Support the Planning team in the preparation of master programmes
  • Analyse and support the Planning team in labour resource and plant
  • Support the Planning team in assessing / evaluate construction methods and techniques
  • Support the Planning team in the preparation of prelims
  • Support the Planning team in preparation procurement and information schedules
  • Support 4D Planning – Linking 3d models to programme inc: progress
  • Support the Planning team in assessing project progress positions
  • Support the Planning team in production of graphical presentations using CAD etc.
  • Support and co-ordinate the distribution of programmes
  • Support the smooth running of planning department
  • Support the Planning team in assessing project progress positions and maintains production control records.

This job description is intended to give the post holder an appreciation of the role envisaged for the Trainee Planner and the range of duties to be undertaken.

It does not attempt to detail every activity.  Specific tasks and objectives will be agreed with the post holder at regular intervals.

 

 

 

Personal Specifications

Technical Competencies

Essential

  • Currently studying, or planning to undertake, a higher or degree-level course in a construction-related discipline
  • Strong interest in technology, engineering and the built environment.
  • Strong IT skills and confidence working with common Microsoft packages.
  • Logical thinking and problem-solving ability.
  • Good attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Interest in technology, design, or strategy (e.g. ICT, CAD).
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to manage time, stay organised, and meet deadlines.
  • Willingness to learn and apply new tools and techniques.

 

Desirable

  • Experience in a construction related environment
  • Interest in how construction, engineering, or design processes come together.
  • Basic knowledge of project management concepts (e.g. timelines, milestones).
  • Ability to read drawings and visual information
  • Understanding of 3D modelling, design software, or gaming engines
  • Creative thinking and ability to visualise how projects fit together
  • CSCS card

 

 

Behavioural Competencies

Essential:

Commercial Awareness: relevant to the position applied for and understanding of why commercial awareness and business acumen are related and how these combine to meet customer needs and GRAHAM business requirements.

Leadership skills: Communicates well and shows commitment to work as part of a fully integrated team.

Effective Communication skills: Able to adapt communication to audience and create detailed written documents and reports under supervision. Able to maintain and manage communication links with a variety of stakeholders. Presents a professional image and promotes the Brand.

Customer Focus: Takes time to question and understand why customer needs are important and wants to forge ongoing sustainable links with customers to act in theirs and the businesses long term interest.

Influencing: Identifies and builds relationships with those who will be useful now and in the future in achieving strategic business objectives.

Initiative: Is able to work alone to get results in an effective way. Understands and seeks to minimise waste in resources and processes. Adopts and encourages others to adopt new ways of working. Demonstrate ability to eventually work unsupervised.

Team Player: Always willing to be involved in other activities to achieve company objectives. Works collaboratively and uses influence to gain resolution of issues. Demonstrates honestly, loyalty and commitment.

Negotiation: Willingness to learn and the ability to understand negotiation skills and why these are important for all supply chain members all contractual rights and obligations are realised and protected.

 

 

Successful candidates are expected to join the company from June 2026 onwards.

 

For further information and application, click here