Planning Engineer

Although a planning engineer’s day-to-day duties and responsibilities are determined by where they work, there are many core tasks associated with the role. Based on our analysis of job listings, these include:

Create Project Execution Plans

Deciding on proper engineering techniques and milestone sequences for each project stage is the most important role of a planning engineer. They set targets for activities based on each phase of a project plan and ensure it meets client’s specifications. Planning engineers make estimations for timescales and costs using specialized design software packages.

Project Monitoring and Reporting

Planning engineers monitor day-to-day work progress for a project and provide accurate weekly and monthly reports by swiftly communicating potential progress delays or project slippages. Tracking and analyzing field results is another key responsibility. Planning engineers continually make comparisons between planned progress and actual progress and report any differences to their lead project manager. They also study the impact of alternative approaches.

Perform Project Coordination

Planning engineers analyze expenses and identify opportunities to save cost. They make sure complex projects are handled on time and on budget by overseeing the project planning, inventory services, cost control, team leadership, and project management.

Manage Stakeholder and Team Communication

A planning engineer works closely with others involved in a project and directs the daily workload of subordinate team members. They attend crucial meetings and provide current status updates to vendors, supervisors, and other stakeholders. Managing overall project communications is a critical part of them successfully completing their role.

Drive Process Improvement

Driving continuous improvement by working with leadership teams is a key duty for planning engineers. They identify gaps in key performance areas and plan activities to increase overall project efficiency. Planning engineers provide guidance and deliver schedules to facilitate project execution strategy.