What is the role of a planning engineer?

Planning engineers are critical to several industries because practically every organization and company needs expert planners. Their primary focus is on developing comprehensive project plans and schedules, ensuring the timely and efficient execution of projects while meeting all quality and safety standards. Planning engineers coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including project managers, contractors, and other engineering teams, to facilitate seamless project delivery.

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Senior Electrical Engineer

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 5 years

* Ensure inputs for all electrical aspects of the project adhere to scope definition for the appropriate Stage Gate are firm and meet company requirement. Apply working knowledge of engineering principles using sound engineering, data measurement & collection, calculations, analysis, interpretation and problem solving.* Reviews the electrical engineering budgets to meet the scope and execution plan for the project.* Review, interpret, comment and approve electrical engineering deliverables. Review reports for electrical design projects and provide recommendations to site team and to project consultants. Review the Electrical Engineering Work Packages (EWPs) for all deliverables and time-based functions.* Assist Engineering Manager with review the engineering schedule and overall project schedule to ensure it meets project requirements and guides overall project scheduled development.* For all Electrical aspects of the project, the EE shall coordinate with Procurement, Construction, Commissioning, Operations and other Corporate functional groups early in the design effort to obtain their input and conduct any necessary reviews. Also coordinate electrical designs with Jobsite operations/maintenance personnel.* Direct and review all electrical engineering design work to ensure that work quality is satisfactory and meets company objectives. Raise safety awareness and ensure the corporate design for safety principles are applied to the project.* Participate in engineering risk assessments and HAZOPs and ensure risks/issues related to electrical designs are identified are addressed.* Identify and/or develop options for value optimization through application of best practices, considering synergies across the full project scope for electrical designs. Provide electrical discipline engineers and project engineers with guidance on scope, design criteria, tenders, and safety as, as required.* Ensure compliance with technical standards throughout project development and execution phases. Ensure consistent engineering methodology is used for all electrical studies and designs, including commissioning and start up.

Service Engineer

Location: Lachine

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Production & Manufacturing

Experience: 3 years

Create and verify Repair & Overhaul (R&O) documentation including: Repair Schemes Parts Cleaning and Inspection (PCI) Special Inspection Procedures (SIP) Engine Management Programs (EMP) Interpret technical drawings and component specifications to create clear documentation. Apply engineering knowledge to define appropriate inspection and repair methods for gas turbine components. Collaborate with internal teams to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with established repair standards. Deliver documentation based on shifting priorities throughout the year; adapt to evolving engineering needs. Utilize multiple platforms to manage and author documents, including MS Word, Adobe Acrobat, and SharePoint. Ensure deliverables meet quality expectations and align with documented repair engineering processes.

Application Engineer

Location: Oakville

Branche: Life Sciences

Expertise: Production & Manufacturing

Experience: 3 years

Develop solutions to customer challenges in creative ways. Work with Sales teams and directly with customers, their engineering representatives, our WTS teams to review existing facilities, identify unique constraints at site, and identify options that will solve the customers' challenge. Evaluate and respond to internal and external customer inquiries (technical requests, product availability, pricing, etc.) by reviewing specifications, drawings and other documents to prepare budgets, bids, or proposals. Prepare detailed budget and firm proposals by gathering details and compiling data to estimate all engineering and production costs according to customer specifications. Determine material, assembly and commissioning estimates utilizing quotations, vendor contact, catalogues, cost standards and historical data. Determine freight cost to the jobsite from the expected fabrication location. Work in conjunction with Supply Chain on schedule and forecasting. Establish and maintain files and records on cost and specifications of equipment, products, and components. Develop and maintain an in-depth knowledge of common changes at customer sites and share lessons learned and best practices globally. Prepare documentation and participate in contract kickoff meetings to transfer projects to the execution group.

Industrial Engineer

Location: Charlottetown

Branche: Life Sciences

Expertise: Production & Manufacturing

Experience: 3 years

Responsibilities Assist in the planning, execution, and monitoring of capital and infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with project goals, timelines, and budgets. Lead process and equipment validation ensuring regulatory compliance and consistent high-quality products. Monitor production data and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to highlight trends and opportunities for improvements. Ensure that all manufacturing processes and equipment meet the required standards and specifications through rigorous testing and validation. Follow IQ, OQ, PQ methodologies when applicable. Develop and manage qualification documentation for new equipment, processes, and systems, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Track the status of qualification activities and provide regular updates to stakeholders on progress and issues. Conduct assessments of packaging materials and processes to ensure they meet quality, safety, and compliance standards. Provide recommendations for packaging improvements and partner with suppliers and internal teams to implement changes. Identify and implement strategies and methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) for continuous improvements, efficiency gains, and waste reduction including tracing performance of implemented changes.

Senior Civil Engineer

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: HSEQ

Experience: 5 years

Introduction We are currently hiring a Senior Civil Engineer for our mining client in Vancouver, BC. You will be responsible for designing and overseeing lead engineering contractors for civil design and multidisciplinary interface/coordination. Provide subject matter expertise in a relevant discipline guideline to support capital projects including concentrators, tailings storage facilities (TSF), heap leach pads, and associated infrastructure. This is a long-term contract opportunity. Responsibilities Be a courageous safety leader, leading by example and fostering a proactive safety and sustainability culture based on the common values on health, safety, environment, and communities shared by the asset owners Collaborate in engineering projects to ensure optimal performance of civil facilities such as pump stations and pipeline systems for TSF. Provide senior review of engineering deliverables for earthworks, roads, pipeline corridors, process support facilities, water ponds, stormwater drainage, etc. Interface with other discipline leads such as structural and geotechnical for the civil design of facilities. Supervise or serve as Project Manager or technical expert for large/complex site planning/construction, expansion or modifications. Provide Senior level quality assurance on project deliverables. Identify value engineering opportunities. Develop and/or review scopes of work, evaluate proposals, draft internal requests for funding, and support vendor interface. Identify opportunities for improvements and determine associated value for risk reduction measures. Interface with Project Management and Operations teams as the Engineering team representative leading up to and through project commercial operations to ensure timely and complete transfer of technical deliverables. Attend site visits to support site evaluation, suitability, and due diligence efforts. Operate independently to achieve company and project goals. Provide reporting to other groups and leadership. Manage and /or mentor engineers in key practice areas to level of capabilities. Assist in the development of work and process flow for corporate team. Ability to provide positive and constructive feedback. Requirements Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related Engineering discipline from an accredited curriculum and ten (10) years of experience in an applicable field of expertise. Professional Engineer (PE) registration. Knowledge in the principles and practices of Civil including earthworks design, road design, hydrology and stormwater drainage. Able to demonstrate technical competence through design and/or operations experience in the civil aspects on at least one of the following work areas: TSF facilities (pump stations), crushed leach facilities, and concentrators, Working knowledge of Engineering tools (AutoCAD/Civil 3D, Navisworks, ArcGIS). Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Microsoft Project experience is a plus. Strong interpersonal, prioritization, and time management skills. Ability to multi-task while managing multiple projects and multiple engineering team initiatives. Desire to work in a dynamic fast paced environment alongside individuals with multiple interests and backgrounds. free Working knowledge of Geotechnical Engineering principles and design as it pertains to earthworks and road design (slope stability, pavement design, materials of construction) Experience with metal mining operations, TSF facilities, water dams and/or crushed leach stockpile design and operations Experience with slurry transport analysis and design Experience with site civil construction methods and techniques. Experience with cost estimating for civil projects, project scheduling and project controls. Experience in surface water hydrology, hydraulics, and groundwater hydrology Superior interpersonal as well as written and oral communication skills with diverse teams of technical and non-technical staff Fluency in Spanish or Bahasa Indonesian languages Ability and willingness to travel domestic / international.

Contracts Lead

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 5 years

Be a courageous safety leader, leading by example and fostering a proactive safety and sustainability culture based on the common values of health, safety, environment, and communities shared by the asset owners As a member of a multi-disciplinary project team, collaborate and influence Project activities to provide the best commercial value for the Project Lead preparation of the Contracting Strategy, policies and procedures documents Enable Project success by identifying and evaluating contracting strategies, and facilitating the selection of the commercial strategy that best supports the Project objectives Work with internal groups, particularly Legal, Risk and Insurance, and the Manager, Project Services to develop, integrate and deliver best-practice Project contracting practices, procedures, and templates. Lead the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, including: Plan, prepare, and manage the RFP documents and process Analyze and evaluate commercial proposals Lead the technical evaluation process and consolidating inputs Support and provide input to the selection process, based on overall best value. Negotiate commercial and legal terms on behalf of Ensure all records are managed and retained Coordinate agreements post-award in close collaboration with Project Management, Project Controls, and contract scope owners, including evaluating pre-mobilization deliverables, reconciling invoices, negotiating / resolving disputes, negotiating changes, implementing change management procedures, and closing contracts Ensure all Contractor and Consultant personnel align with all relevant requirements, policies, industry best practices, and project-specific requirements Build and maintain relationships with relevant stakeholders and external service providers Promote commitment to sustainability, the environment, and health and safety, through leading by example, and demonstrating honesty, sincerity, and openness to feedback Review existing contracting processes and lead improvements aimed at enhancing efficiencies, as necessary, working collaboratively with team members and external service providers, driving continuous improvements Foster a culture of open communication, focus on building relationships across the organization, with the partners and external audiences, and invest in developing talent within the organization by providing recognition, challenge, and mentorship

Managing Director

Location: Greater Toronto Area

Branche: Medical devices

Expertise: Marketing & Sales

Experience: 5 years

Define short, medium and long-term strategies in the region, considering products, local market, investment, etc. The goal being to achieve business objectives, increased profit and market share, and to direct team activities to achieve set strategies. Identify actual and future business opportunities and support the regional leadership. Lead regional P&L management, including region's finance plan, forecasting and reporting financial reviews/presentations to leadership. Develop and calculate a budget to meet organizational goals. Forecast future needs including human and material resources and capital expenditures. Determine and establish organizational structure and supervisory relationships to regional leadership. Develop and execute operational decisions with a strategic perspective. Maintain consistent contact with major suppliers, key customers, industry associations and government representatives to achieve the objectives of the division Actively seek, identify, analyze, and present new business opportunities and improvement ideas to senior management Provide general direction to Country and functional areas, groups and/or operations. Keep the organizational vision and values at the forefront of decision making and action. Demonstrate effective change leadership. Build strategic internal and external partnerships to further departmental and organizational objectives. Interact with senior/executive level management, outside regulatory agencies, government officials, customers, vendors, partners and/or suppliers. Coordinate across functional areas, business units, and/or geographies in order to achieve company or area goals. Develops and/or identify new work processes that will have broad applicability throughout the company. Contribute ideas for improving work processes and achieving organizational goals. Investigate and solve problems that impact work processes or personnel in multiple units or departments. Active distributor management. Ensure execution to a high degree of performance in achieving business objectives and maximize performance using appropriate goals and KPIs Plan and drive work towards achieving Company's vision, objectives as well as Division mission and strategies. Establish territory sales plans/quotas together with local and regional teams. Recruit, coach, and develop organizational talent. Fosters a diverse workplace that enables all participants to contribute to their full potential in pursuit of organizational objectives. Provides direction, coaching and guidance to personnel; evaluates performance of and assists in career development planning for subordinates. Partnering with other regions on product launches with a focus on segmentation, pricing and contracting strategies. Lead the Market Model implementation across the region. Support with the analysis and execution of main takeaways Provide as needed information regarding market, competition, political/ social/economic conditions. Oversee, manage and utilize product management systems to analyse and manage regional business Participation in local region and other region-specific cross division meeting.

Lead Planner

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 5 years

Introduction Brunel is currently looking for a Lead Planner to support a leading mining client in Vancouver, Canada. This is a critical position necessary to ensure the successful and timely execution of complex capital projects by supporting effective project controls and schedule management. Responsible for project planning and scheduling, monitoring, progress measurement, risk management and reporting. Manages planning team members reporting to the Project Controls Manager. Manage and oversees scheduling of project program for moderate to high risk capital engineering and construction projects. Provide guidance and consultation for project team members. Familiar with a variety of field concepts, practices, and procedures. Capable of multi-tasking with experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Responsibilities Guide and direct resolution of project difficulties and complex project control issues with strong analytical skills required to review all project controls information to ensure accuracy as well as identify issues, concerns and potential mitigations. Interact with the project management team and corporate team in the development of the project schedule and participate in regular project meetings. Gather information, conduct analysis and prepare reports and presentations of information to communicate potential issues and concerns, as needed on the project. Integrate multiple schedules into a master project schedule. Identify, determine and communicate design changes, scope changes, schedule slippages and potential impacts. Maintain a schedule delay log to track schedule variation, conduct analysis to determine alternative courses of action or recovery on slippages identified in schedule. Ensure trends of cost and schedule are identified, well documented and ensure the change management process is followed and communicate and suggest corrective actions. Coordinate with cross functional team in project setting, ensure project controls team members are interfacing with engineering, procurement, contracts and construction on concepts and relationships to the scope of work. Manage project baseline process for schedule and participate in progress measurement as well as forecasting of final schedule throughout the project. Ensure all planning is conducted in accordance with company standards and procedures by following schedule version control processes, policies, and procedures. Analyze critical path and constraints to determine effect of changes to schedule and recommend mitigations and potential workarounds. Participate in risk management; this includes identification, documentation, mitigation and tracking of potential risks on the project. In addition, determine potential schedule/progress impacts of potential risks as they are identified. Support review of EPC/M, Contractor claims, extension of time submissions and carry out forensic schedule analysis during disputes. Drive timely Management of Change for changes that may affect project schedule targets. Act as gatekeeper for project planning in the schedule assurance process to ensure deliverability of project schedule milestones in accordance with corporate obligations to meet project handover targets. Mentor and lead other project planner/scheduling members, ensure project planning team is staffed appropriately, conduct regular staff performance reviews and manage any staffing issues that may arise. Job Scope: Nature of work: Work on complex issues with responsibility to implement solution. Lead and direct the work of others. Level of interaction: Lead interaction with external peers in various departments to ensure cross coordination between groups. Autonomy/decision making: Work under very limited supervision with latitude to set objectives, priorities and timelines impacting the project controls team. Budgetary responsibility: limited to none. Assist project controls team in development of cash flow by integrating the output from resource loaded schedule and cost forecast. Managerial responsibility: Lead planning work group and at times provide support in management of the project controls team. Skills, Problem Solving & Complexity: Fluency in English; skill in effective communication, both verbal and written, including the ability to actively listen and to adapt behavior and communication style based upon the audience Broad knowledge of the principles and practices of heavy industrial construction Strong analytical skills with ability to research and analyze information of considerable difficulty and draw valid conclusions Skill in following safety practices, and recognizing, controlling and/or eliminating hazards Ability to build trust and credibility with employees/peers and establish common goals and expectations. Systematic approach to problem solving that ensures accuracy, timeliness and quality of documentation in resolution. Requirements Skilled in the latest scheduling software (Primavera P6, MS Project, etc.) Minimum ten (10) years' project controls planning and scheduling experience in Construction Management of Metal Mining, large industrial projects, especially with regards to all disciplines of construction. Bachelor's degree in engineering, Construction Management, Business or related fields and / OR High School diploma or GED and fifteen (15) years' experience in engineering, construction, project controls or business-related field with at least six (6) years of experience in a leadership role in project controls planning and scheduling.

Director of Regulatory

Location: Canada

Branche: Life Sciences

Expertise: Research & Development

Experience: 3 years

Responsible for preparing client proposals and generating new business, including leading presentations to potential RA clients, and participating in multifunctional presentations Prioritize and manage multiple simultaneous projects to meet budget (including invoice review), timelines and client expectations; anticipate and resolve emerging issues Responsible for development and implementation of RA activities including assessments, strategies, submissions and agency interactions, applying expert knowledge in core area of regulatory practice (e.g., CMC, Medical Devices, CTAs, US etc.) and at least basic knowledge outside of core area Maintain target billables by obtaining new business Creates opportunities to build agency relationships by participating in professional activities such as offering industry training, conference presentations, publications and webinars Leads client and agency interface, with responsibility for strengthening relationships and growing the business. Responsible for the quality of deliverables, by ensuring compliance with the company and client review and approval processes; identifies and implements opportunities for process improvement Develop and maintain partnerships with senior decision-makers to build the business, resolve significant issues, and create opportunities Analyze data, the regulatory environment and business objectives to make and implement recommendations, using judgement to identify innovative solutions while managing uncertainty. Lead and advise clients and cross-functional teams on agency interactions Leads decision-making and conflict resolution surrounding regulatory issues within cross-functional teams Proactively identifies, shares and interprets regulatory intelligence Manage multiple simultaneous projects to ensure that they are on budget, meet timelines and client expectations. Engages in continuous learning activities in order to provide effective consulting services and be a sought-after resource. Develop and manage 0-2 regulatory direct reports at Manager level or below, as assigned including but not limited to assignment delegation, time and budget management, skill and knowledge development

Project Controls Manager

Location: Toronto

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Controlling

Experience: 5 years

Project Controls Manager Remote with Travel to Site (every 4-6 weeks) Introduction Brunel is currently seeking a Project Controls Manager to support our client on the Lynn Lake Project, one of Canada's premier high-grade open-pit gold deposits located in northern Manitoba. As the project transitions from exploration to production, it presents a significant opportunity for growth, underpinned by robust existing infrastructure. The Project Controls Manager will be pivotal in overseeing key project control functions, including planning, cost control, schedule management, and scope management. This leadership role will be essential in ensuring the successful execution of the project during its construction phase and in preparing for its transition into production. The Project Controls Manager will lead a team of 7-8 professionals, guiding them to ensure alignment with project objectives, timelines, and budgets while maintaining a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency. Responsibilities Lead a team of 7-8 project controls professionals to develop, implement, and manage robust project control systems and procedures for the Lynn Lake Project, ensuring alignment with overall project objectives. Collaborate closely with accounting teams to ensure accurate and timely reporting of accruals, forecasts, and project status updates, maintaining financial transparency and accountability. Proactively identify and address deviations and variances from the project baseline schedule and budget, providing timely notification to stakeholders and implementing corrective actions as required. Deliver weekly and monthly reports to the project team, summarizing cost, scope, and schedule status, and ensuring that project progress is in line with established targets. Compile and review cost reports, ensuring they reconcile with site financial reports and reflect accurate project performance. Oversee the Change Management process, ensuring all project changes are documented, evaluated, and managed according to established project controls procedures. Lead and manage risk assessments and maintain a comprehensive project risk register to mitigate potential issues before they impact the project. Work closely with the Contracts team to assist in the development of construction and procurement contracts, ensuring consistency with project controls and objectives. Monitor and compare physical progress against contractor reports, accruals, and invoices to ensure that project work is completed as planned and within budget. Support contractors and vendors in the implementation of project controls procedures, ensuring their alignment with project expectations and standards. Monitor and manage scope growth in engineering, procurement, and construction contracts to prevent budget overruns and schedule delays. Review and analyze contractor schedules, ensuring accurate updates are integrated into the overall project schedule. Perform other tasks as required to support the project's successful execution and ensure alignment with overall objectives. Requirements 8-10 years of proven experience managing projects and/or project controls, with a focus on large-scale mining or heavy industrial construction projects. Strong working knowledge of accounting principles, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and managing accruals and financial reports. Expert proficiency in project management software (Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Prism), with advanced skills in SAP and Power BI. Demonstrated experience leading and managing project controls teams and working collaboratively across departments to deliver successful projects on time and within budget. Excellent planning, leadership, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels of the organization. Proven ability to proactively manage risk and control scope growth in complex projects, ensuring all activities are aligned with the project's goals. Strong ability to analyze and interpret project data, identify variances, and implement corrective actions to maintain schedule and budget adherence. Willingness and ability to work in a rotational schedule with regular site visits (every 4-6 weeks), demonstrating a commitment to both office-based and field-based project management. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced construction environment, with high autonomy and accountability for ensuring successful project delivery.

What do planning engineers do? 

Planning engineers are responsible for several key tasks throughout the project lifecycle. They meticulously analyze project requirements and objectives to create detailed plans, encompassing timelines, resource allocation, and budget estimates. These professionals collaborate with project managers to set achievable milestones and deadlines, allowing for efficient project monitoring and progress tracking.
 

Moreover, planning engineers continuously assess project risks and implement risk mitigation strategies to minimize potential delays and disruptions. They monitor the project's progress, identify any deviations from the original plan, and propose corrective actions to ensure the project remains on schedule.
 

Planning engineers utilize various project management tools and software to create and manage Gantt charts, critical path analysis, and resource utilization charts. These tools aid in effective project planning and resource allocation, allowing for the optimization of manpower and equipment utilization.

What are the required skills for a planning engineer? 

To excel as a planning engineer, individuals must possess a diverse skill set. Exceptional organizational skills are essential for managing complex project plans and multiple timelines effectively. Planning engineers should be adept at problem-solving, as they often encounter unforeseen challenges that require quick and efficient resolution to keep the project on track.

 

Communication skills are crucial for successful collaboration with project stakeholders and team members. Planning engineers need to convey complex technical information and project updates clearly and concisely. Additionally, they should have a strong understanding of project management methodologies and techniques to develop efficient and realistic project schedules.

Where do planning engineers work? 

Planning engineers find employment opportunities in a variety of industries, especially in construction, infrastructure development, manufacturing, and large-scale project management. They may work for construction companies, engineering firms, government agencies, or any organization involved in project planning and execution.

Common planning engineer responsibilities 

  • Develop comprehensive project plans and schedules, considering project requirements, objectives, and available resources;

  • Collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders to set realistic milestones and deadlines for project completion;

  • Continuously monitor project progress, identify potential delays, and implement corrective measures to keep the project on track;

  • Conduct risk assessments and develop risk mitigation strategies to minimize project disruptions;

  • Utilize project management tools and software to create Gantt charts, critical path analysis, and resource utilization charts;

  • Coordinate with engineering teams, contractors, and suppliers to ensure timely and efficient project execution;

  • Optimize resource allocation and manpower utilization to maximize project efficiency;

  • Provide regular project updates to stakeholders, keeping them informed of project status and any changes to the plan;

  • Comply with safety regulations and quality standards throughout the project;

  • Maintain detailed project documentation, including plans, schedules, and progress reports.

Qualifications for planning engineers 

To become a planning engineer, candidates should possess at least a Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field. Additional certifications in project management or relevant software proficiency can be advantageous.

 

Other essential qualifications include:

  • 2-4+ years of experience in project planning and scheduling;
  • Proficiency in project management tools and software;
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities;
  • Extensive experience with project management methodologies;
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized;
  • Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams;
  • Dedicated to completing projects on time and within the budget.