Apprentice Planner

This role is based within Esh Civils which delivers infrastructure schemes of all sizes, including major capital projects. We work in partnership with local authorities throughout the North East, Tees Valley, Yorkshire and the Humber to deliver a variety of projects, including public realm, highways, flood alleviation, active travel and bridge works.

About the role:

This role is part of our Planner Training & Development Programme, offering a clear progression pathway from Apprentice Planner through to Assistant Planner, Planner, and Senior Planner.

As an Apprentice Planner, you’ll combine academic study with hands on project experience, developing essential planning skills through structured training, mentoring, and real project involvement. This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to build a long term career in planning within a supportive environment.

Location:

Bowburn

What we will expect from you:

Programme & Progress:​

• Supports the Planning Team with routine programme updates 
• Assists in collecting and organising project data for reporting 
• Learns to update short-term and lookahead programmes with guidance 
• Assists with maintaining programme registers 
• Supports preparation of basic programme narratives 
• Attends project and planning meetings to build understanding 
• Contributes to collaborative planning sessions with guidance 
• Develops understanding of programme sequencing and dependencies

Record Keeping/ Progress reporting:

• Assists in maintaining accurate project records and planning data 
• Supports production of reporting dashboards and reports 
• Maintains training and development records in line with programme requirements 
• Attends internal meetings to understand reporting expectations​

Quality:​

• Works in line with planning best practice procedures 
• Demonstrates attention to detail when handling data and programme updates 
• Builds understanding of quality requirements within the planning function

Customer, Client & People Skills:

• Communicates clearly and professionally with colleagues and project teams 
• Builds positive working relationships across teams 
• Develops confidence in participating in meetings and discussions 
• Demonstrates a willingness to learn from others and contribute positively

Technical:

• Develops an understanding of construction drawings and specifications 
• Builds knowledge of typical civil engineering construction sequences 
• Learns to use Microsoft Project to view and carry out basic updates to programmes 
• Gains understanding of planning terminology, sequencing, and logic 
• Develops awareness of NEC and other forms of contract

Health, Safety & Environmental:

• Basic understanding of Health and Safety requirements
• Has a basic understanding of Environmental requirements
• Complies with Group HSE standards at all times 
• Builds awareness of how HSE requirements influence project delivery

What to Expect from us:

At Esh, our values shape the way we work every day — and you can expect to see them in action from the moment you join us.

• Care: We prioritise your wellbeing and development, offering a supportive environment where you’re encouraged to grow, learn, and bring your best self to work
• Trust: You’ll have the autonomy to take ownership of your work, with managers who believe in your abilities and are there to support you when needed
• Integrity: We do the right thing, even when it’s not the easiest option. You can rely on open, honest communication and fair decision making
• Respect: We value diverse perspectives and create a workplace where everyone is listened to, valued, and treated with dignity
• Working Together: Collaboration is at the heart of how we operate. You’ll join a team that celebrates shared success and supports one another to achieve great results

Together, these values create a workplace where people feel welcome, trusted, appreciated, and proud to be part of the team. 

Qualifications:

• Strong interest in construction, engineering, or project planning 
• Good IT skills, particularly Microsoft Excel 
• Willingness to undertake and complete a construction-related qualification as part of the Apprenticeship programme 
• Full UK driving licence (or working towards)

Attributes & Skills:

• Conducts themselves in a courteous and professional manner 
• Open, honest, and approachable 
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn 
• Good communication skills and able to work effectively within a team 
• Able to follow instructions and take feedback constructively 
• Organised with good time management skills 
• Demonstrates reliability and commitment to development 
• Shows initiative and enthusiasm for learning new skills