Planning Graduate Management Trainee (site-based)

Wates is offering a Planning Graduate Management Trainee programme where you will play an important role in helping to plan and coordinate the successful delivery of a wide range of construction projects. You will gain exposure to both pre-construction and construction activities, learning how projects are programmed, monitored and managed from initial tender through to completion.

What You Will Do

Over the course of the programme, you will:

• Support the development and maintenance of construction programmes and schedules using industry-leading planning software.
• Assist with monitoring project progress, tracking key milestones and identifying potential risks or delays to project delivery.
• Develop an understanding of planning principles, methodologies and best practice within the construction industry.
• Help analyse project performance data and contribute to reports that support decision-making and project controls.
• Work closely with project, design, commercial and delivery teams to ensure programmes reflect project requirements and objectives.
• Build strong working relationships with colleagues, clients, subcontractors and supply chain partners.
• Attend site visits to gain practical insight into construction activities, sequencing and delivery methods.
• Support planning meetings and contribute to discussions around project progress, resource requirements and programme improvements.
• Develop an understanding of how effective planning supports safe, efficient and successful project delivery.

About You

To be successful, you'll:

• Be passionate about building a career in the built environment.
• Be curious, eager to learn and committed to your personal development.
• Build positive relationships and work collaboratively with others.
• Take ownership of your work and act with integrity and professionalism.
• Approach challenges with a positive, solution-focused mindset.
• Be organised, adaptable and able to prioritise effectively.
• Be committed to delivering high standards and making a positive impact.

What's in it for you?

• Graduates who do not hold a degree in a construction-related subject will be enrolled onto a relevant Level 4 apprenticeship.
• Mentoring, structured training, behavioural workshops and support from experienced professionals.
• Support to work towards industry-recognised qualifications and chartership.
• Competitive salary
• Private medical insurance
• Car allowance
• Health & wellness programme
• 26 days holiday + bank holidays
• Birthday Day off

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for this programme, you must:

• By September 2027, have obtained a bachelor's degree with a predicted or achieved classification of 2:2 or above.
• A full UK driving licence is required for ALL locations.

Locations

• Manchester: Relevant degree not required
• Bedford and Sunderland: you must have a degree relevant to this role

Important: Travel Requirements

As a project-based business, our teams work across a variety of locations. Depending on the role, you may be required to work from different project sites within the region or nationally throughout the programme. Successful candidates must be willing to travel in line with project and business need.

About Wates

Established in 1897, Wates is one of the UK's leading family-owned development, building and property maintenance companies. With 6,000 employees and now in our fourth generation of family ownership, we're committed to the long-term sustainability of the built environment and to making our industry more inclusive and representative of the communities we work in.

As part of our trainee programme, you'll join a network of around 200 peers, learning and working together as you build connections and develop your career at Wates.