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.

Ready to take the next step?  

Apply now for a job as a Planning engineer

Senior Electrical Engineer

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Controlling

Experience: 3 years

Development and project management of substation designs, project layouts, mining plants, transmission line designs, distribution line designs and support to other engineering groups. Identify new substation siting using desktop and in-person field visits with internal and external parties. Develop and review of scope of work documents, one-lines, three lines, layouts, evaluation, panel layouts, and engineering standards drawings. Act as a Senior electrical project manager for multiple projects in coordination with the overall Operations Project Management team. Act as utility technical a subject matter expert interface for assigned projects in coordination with Interconnection and Operations Project Management teams. Ensure due diligence, engineering and constructability reviews, submittals, and support to Substation, Development engineering, Project Engineering, and Interconnection groups are achieved on all assigned projects. Participate in the identification and selection of major equipment suppliers and RFP evaluations for owners furnished equipment. Developing optimization tools which include Standard drawings, Calculation Sheets, tracking tools, process improvement, etc. Interface with the Engineering, Project Management and Operations teams leading up to and through project commercial operations to ensure timely and complete transfer of plant technical deliverables. Attend site visits to support site evaluation, suitability, and due diligence efforts. Identify value engineering opportunities. Perform other duties as required.

Instrumentation and Controls Engineer

Location: Peterborough

Branche: Conventional Energy

Expertise: HR & Recruiting

Experience: 2 years

Brunel is seeking an Instrumentation and Control Engineer for our nuclear energy client. Reporting to the Instrumentation & Controls Engineering Manager, this role entails supporting the technical direction for the overall project and supporting technical interfacing to both internal and external customers. The Instrumentation & Controls Engineering department largely focuses on the control systems and instrumentation involved within Fuel Handling Systems, other parts of the plant, tooling, medical isotope systems as well as remote delivery machines. These systems are often complex and are in specialized areas. Responsibilities Prepare elementary drawings/schematics, electrical assembly drawings, single line diagrams, equipment specifications, technical documents in compliance with applicable codes & standards. Liaise with personnel from various customer groups like design, operations, and maintenance to gather site-specific design information. Execute walk downs of various equipment in the plant. Prepare and present technical data to internal and external customers. Ensure designs comply with applicable company, technical, and regulatory standards. Participate in design reviews and customer review meetings, providing stakeholder and design input. Test execution/commissioning of complex equipment and systems. Review selection of components and equipment (e.g motors, cables, relays, junction boxes). Adhere to on-time/on-budget criteria associated with project commitments and customer success. Support the development and estimating of engineering proposals. Ensure that design support the development and estimating of engineering proposals. Ensure that design is done for manufacturability and complies with requirements. Support the development and estimating of engineering proposals. Key success factors are engineering and product excellence, effective design activity management, task/milestone completion on-time/on-budget, producing defect free designs, meeting your metrics, motivating a diverse team, managing and achieving results through influencing and setting of expectations/actions. Leading by example, assure compliance and adherence to processes (including internal Business Management System), industry codes and standards, quality systems, policies, and contractual requirements. Support process change through process enhancement, and technology introduction to achieve world-class product development and product deployment. Support customer relationships and ensure market alignment. This position requires interaction with external customers, subcontractors, and cross functional internal teams. May support proposal development and review including scope review, estimating as well as technical presentations to the customer. Helps to identify project risks, analyze solutions, and take decisive action to resolve issues and communicate these to the leadership team. Provide assurance of health and safety associated with the execution of all projects and activities. Short term travel may be required for the purpose of meeting with clients and stakeholders.

Senior Instrumentation and Controls Engineer

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Controlling

Experience: 3 years

Instrumentation and Control system Engineering experience in Detailed Engineering, Construction/Field Support Interpreting P&I Drawings, review/checking loop diagrams, schematics, or other field instrumentation drawings. Provide technical expertise and guidance to engineering contractor project teams, resolving technical issues/conflicts and ensuring adherence to project timelines and specifications. Use of technical judgment in making selections and adaptation of engineering alternatives during various stages of project implementation. Work with the project team during various optimization efforts during various stages of project implementation. Supports risk assessments, including PHA/HAZOP Generate and review technical reports, specifications, and data sheets to support project implementation. Implement and monitor performance indicators, metrics for measurement of Instrumentation and Controls progress/schedule during various stages of project implementation. Prepare Weekly/monthly reports to communicate project status and outcomes to stakeholders. Collaborate with other discipline, departments, and company installations/sites to provide technical support and recommendations during various stages of project implementation. Ensure compliance with relevant industry codes, standards, regulations, and safety guidelines (e.g., ASME, API, ISO, IEC, ISA) various stages of project implementation. Proficiency of Smart-Plant Instrumentation Instrument database.

Product Development Project Engineer

Location: Montreal

Branche: Life Sciences

Expertise: Production & Manufacturing

Experience: 3 years

Direct, manage and support other resources assigned to all tasks related to the product development or continuous improvement projects Plan, maintain and communicate project timelines and changes Contribute to technical design, development and improvements to all products within the Organization Review and approve mechanical drawings and electrical schematics related to the project Perform and document testing activities to support product development and continuous improvement projects Participate in assembling prototype and/or installing parts on existing equipment (mechanic, electric and/or electronic) Maintain current understanding of the product and provide technical support to all internal departments Manage engineering changes to assigned products Participate in Quality and Continuous Improvement Reviews, support initiatives and actions as required.

Intermediate Equipment Engineer

Location: Peterborough

Branche: Conventional Energy

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 3 years

Provide execution of design/analysis/test/commissioning of complex equipment and systems throughout the entire product life cycle. Preparation or approval of design documentation (including technical documents, drawings and BOMs), technical specifications, development and test plans, and engineering quotations. 3D modelling for purposes of conceptual design, and performing stress analysis. Application of design for manufacturability/assembly (DFMA) techniques. Provide technical support to CAD, Procurement, Manufacturing, Test, Quality, and Commissioning and Service personnel. Participation in internal and external meetings, such as design reviews, preparing and presenting technical data. Key success factors are engineering and product excellence, effective design activity management, task/milestone completion on-time/on-budget, producing defect free designs, meeting your metrics, motivating a diverse team, managing and achieving results through influencing and setting of expectations/actions. Leading by example, assure compliance and adherence to processes (including internal Business Management System), industry codes and standards, quality systems, policies, and contractual requirements. Support process change through process enhancement, and technology introduction to achieve world-class product development and product deployment. Support customer relationships and ensure market alignment. This position requires interaction with external customers, subcontractors, and cross functional internal teams. May support proposal development and review including scope review, estimating as well as technical presentations to the customer. Learn to identify project risks, analyze solutions, and take decisive action to resolve issues and communicate these to the leadership team. Provide assurance of health and safety associated with the execution of all projects and activities. Short term travel may be required for the purpose of meeting with clients and stakeholders.

Junior Mechanical Engineer

Location: Peterborough

Branche: Conventional Energy

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 2 years

Why work with Brunel? We are proud to offer exciting career opportunities from over 100 offices globally in 42 countries. Advancing your career takes time and effort - let us match you to your ideal position.

Estimating Manager

Location: Richmond Hill

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 5 years

Ensure compliance with clients Estimating Standard is maintained. Develop cost estimates and coordinate proposals for assigned estimating projects. Manage multiple bids and perform as liaison between estimating team and Operations. Revise estimates and implement required changes. Assure estimates are realistic and based on industry standard units, with transparency to drive competitive project performance. Maintain client relations by being lead contact of proposal for client. Monitor and ensure bid format meets client's standards. Evaluate Customer Request for Tender/Bid/Quotation documents. Identify and learn customer requirements for bid purposes. Coordinate bid input from all organizational departments. Coordinate with subcontractors to receive input on pricing on labor, materials, and other costs. Early identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks and opportunities related to each bid. Participate in pre and post bid meetings as required. Log proposals and tenders into the database for cost tracking and historical information. Manage Project Controls Documents handover from Estimating to Project Management. Perform as liaison for Project Management when tender is awarded and becomes a job. Ensure compliance with all relevant standards and procedures related to estimating. Collaborate with other departments to ensure that estimating practices are aligned with overall organizational goals. Draw on best practice from industry in the development and maintenance of clients standards and resources. Mentor and lead estimating team members, ensure the team is staffed appropriately, conduct regular staff performance evaluations, provide feedback, and manage any staffing issues that may arise. Perform other duties as may be assigned. Brunel International N.V. is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Medical Information Associate

Location: Toronto

Branche: Pharmaceuticals

Expertise: Communications & Distribution

Experience: 1 years

Medical information provision Provide medical information responses to unsolicited medical questions from internal business partners and external customers, through a variety of channels. Planning, researching and writing scientifically complex, high quality, balanced, scientifically based consistent and accurate medical information responses for customers in response to unsolicited questions from customers. Medical information materials creation and update Prepare materials for contact center and patient support programs Create medical information responses and/or localize global medical information responses to reflect Canadian regulations, labeling and resources. Subject Matter Expert for Medical Information Apply the medical information expertise and analytics to medical information communication plan including channel selection Engage scientific and clinical discussions by leveraging compound and disease knowledge and medical information-related knowledge including the relevant regulations Leadership Lead and/or facilitate transformation to maximize the value of medical information Share best practices about medical information-related activities with others Provide expert consultation and coach to others Additional responsibilities Power User of on-line databases, systems, customer relationship management (CRM) tools and authoring software. Review promotional, advertising and educational materials for scientific soundness and technical accuracy

Senior Project Manager

Location: Markham

Branche: Food Production

Expertise: Production & Manufacturing

Experience: 4 years

Develop and enforce systems, compliance standards, and best practices for fixed assets across all sites. Oversee the execution of insurance response plans and manage audit findings effectively. Standardize asset management practices to ensure consistency and compliance across the organization. Collaborate with functional leaders, site management, and external stakeholders to ensure cohesive and efficient operational strategies. Maintain a comprehensive national system for tracking maintenance PM/PdM records and audit documentation. Partner with the Maintenance Reliability team to implement a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) that supports robust tracking of compliance activities and corrective actions. Create and manage dashboards and reporting tools to centralize KPI reporting on compliance status, trends, and areas needing attention.

Project Procurement Specialist

Location: Vancouver

Branche: Mining

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 3 years

Introduction We are currently seeking a Project Procurement specialist for a leading mining client in Vancouver, British Columbia. Reporting to both the Procurement Lead as well as the Project Manager while assigned to a project, the Project Procurement Specialist will utilize and maintain our client's standard project procurement methods, procedures, templates, and systems. The specialist will oversee various stages of the procurement process, including the full lifecycle of contracting and material/ equipment purchasing. Additionally, the role will ensure close coordination with other project services disciplines, project teams, including Project Managers and Directors, and corporate support groups such as Legal and Corporate Risk as needed. Responsibilities As a member of the PDG procurement group, collaborate with the Procurement Lead, Contracts and Procurement Director and project teams. Work as part of the Owner's team to execute procurement activities and oversee the procurement efforts of consultants: Prepare and apply project specific procedures and guidelines for project procurement based on our clients PDG Project Procedures Manual (PPM). Create project procurement plans that incorporates strategic packaging options aligned with the overall project execution plans. Prepare comprehensive procurement documents for the entire project lifecycle, including RFPs, evaluations, LORs, agreements and others necessary materials. Manage purchase orders and/or contracts throughout their entire lifecycle. Design project procurement workflows in accordance with the Project Procedures Manual. Organize regular project procurement meetings, agendas, maintaining actions lists and tracking progress. Ensure that the procurement function of any Project Service Providers comply with relevant policies, industry best practices, and project-specific requirements. Maintain current and up-to-date procurement records throughout the project lifecycle. Assist in evaluating project time and cost claims. Upon project completion, contribute to the development and documentation of historical procurement information and "lessons learned" for future projects. collaborate with legal to compile key supplier Master Services Agreements Assist in developing and maintaining a supplier library, including contact information, corporate overviews, and supplier scorecards. Participate in the development and implementation of new procurement techniques and methods. Perform administrative duties related to procurement as required. Uphold and demonstrate Teck's commitment to safety and environmental protection as a core value. Requirements Undergraduate degree in a related field. A minimum 8 years of experience in project procurement with a preference for experience working on major mining and/or process plant project implementation. 1-2 years of hands-on field experience. Strong expertise in contract and order formation, negotiation and change management. Proven knowledge of project management principles, including risk management and change management. Solid understanding and experience in multiple phases of project execution. Ability to identify procurement activities that impact the project's critical path. Strong knowledge of the engineering (EPCM) industry, with the ability to interpret drawings and technical reports (highly desirable). Working knowledge of ERP procurement/purchasing systems. Experience with freight forwarding, logistics, brokerage and quality surveillance. Excellent critical and conceptual thinking skills. Strong interpersonal skills, along with excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Proficiency in Spanish is highly desirable. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, SharePoint.

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.