Project Planner – Major Infrastructure

Job Type: Permanent | Location: Queenstown, New Zealand  | Salary: Attractive package aligned to senior-level experience

About the opportunity

Rebel Recruitment is partnering with a major civil infrastructure contractor delivering significant works in the Queenstown region.

We’re looking for a seasoned Project Planner who thrives in complex project environments and understands how to turn programme data into commercial advantage.

This is not a junior scheduling role.
This is for a planner who can influence outcomes, challenge assumptions, and protect programme integrity on large-scale projects.

Reporting to the Project Controls Manager, you’ll play a critical role in planning, forecasting, risk mitigation, and delay analysis across major works.

Key Responsibilities:

Planning, Scheduling & Controls

  • Develop and manage detailed project programmes

  • Maintain and status schedules against contract baselines

  • Identify critical path risks and drive resolution with site teams

  • Run scenario modelling (“what-if” analysis) to forecast impacts

  • Lead earned value reporting and key performance index tracking

  • Conduct productivity analysis and performance reviews

  • Link programme and estimate to develop cashflow forecasts

Risk & Claims

  • Lead risk identification and mitigation strategies

  • Quantify delay claims and support EOT submissions

  • Conduct forensic schedule analysis (disruption, concurrency)

  • Challenge engineering inputs using logic and experience

Project Support

  • Assist engineers with detailed programme development (CCS)

  • Provide accurate progress reporting for senior stakeholders

  • Support the Project Controls Manager in driving delivery certainty

What’s in it for you?

  • Access to top-tier construction and engineering projects nationwide

  • Freedom to choose work that fits your goals and lifestyle

  • Variety, challenge, and the chance to build an outstanding project portfolio

  • Advocacy for the rates you deserve — we ensure you get the best rates for your skills

  • A recruitment partner who understands your industry — because we’ve walked in your shoes

  • A genuine relationship built on trust, transparency, and long-term success

  • Our Rebels benefit from XL Strategy, our in-house coaching and development business, ensuring they are set up for success. Through mentorship, training, and career development, we help freelancers excel in every project they undertake.

What we’re looking for:

  • Tertiary qualification in Engineering, Construction or similar

  • 10–15+ years’ experience in civil infrastructure planning

  • Strong CCS experience (essential)

  • Proven experience on major infrastructure projects

  • Strong analytical capability and commercial acumen

  • Experience with earned value, delay claims, and schedule risk

  • Ability to operate independently and influence delivery teams

  • Clear communicator who can work across engineers, consultants and subcontractors

Why Queenstown?

Major infrastructure investment is reshaping the region. This role offers:

  • Long-term project pipeline

  • Exposure to complex civil works

  • Senior-level influence within project controls

  • Competitive salary package

  • Lifestyle balance in one of New Zealand’s most desirable locations

The Type of Planner Who Will Succeed Here

You’re not just updating a programme.

You:

  • Think commercially

  • See risk before others do

  • Challenge logic when it doesn’t stack up

  • Understand that programme drives margin

If you’ve built your reputation on delivery certainty and intelligent planning — we want to talk.

Apply

Send your CV and expression of interest to:
info@rebelrecruitment.co.nz

Or reach out confidentially to discuss the market.

black background with white grid pattern