Mace
Project Controls Engineer - Defence
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Project Controls Engineer – Defence (Preston, Lancashire)
Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.
About the Role
We are looking to appoint an experienced Project Controls Engineer to join our Defence team in Preston, supporting the effective control of scope, schedule, cost, and risk across designated projects or work packages within a major programme operating in air system and Defence environments.
Working closely with Project Managers and the wider project controls team, you will help maintain baselines, analyze performance data, produce clear reporting, and provide insight that supports informed decision-making and assured delivery. The role is due to commence in late autumn to early winter.
Security Requirement
Due to the security requirements of the role, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Maintaining and updating schedule and cost data, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and auditable records.
- Supporting baseline management, change control, and configuration processes, maintaining appropriate logs, records, and evidence.
- Assisting with performance reporting, including:
- Progress tracking
- Milestone analysis
- Critical path analysis
- Forecast out-turns
- Highlighting variances and key drivers
- Working on risk and issue management, including:
- Facilitation
- Record-keeping
- Analysis
- Action tracking
- Collaborating with supply chain and delivery teams to:
- Validate progress
- Manage dependencies
- Support recovery planning where required
- Contributing to audits, assurance reviews, and governance packs by producing:
- Data extracts
- Analysis
- Clear narratives
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Requirements
Qualifications & Experience
- A relevant qualification (HND or degree) in engineering, construction, project management, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience working in a project controls, planning, cost, or PMO environment on construction or infrastructure projects.
- Strong understanding of core project controls techniques, including:
- Baseline management
- Change control
- Progress measurement
- Reporting
- Technical proficiency in:
- Planners like Primavera P6 or MS Project
- Microsoft Excel & PowerPoint
- Ability to learn programme-specific systems
- Attention to detail to produce high-quality, accurate outputs to tight deadlines.
- Willingness to work from the Preston or Lancashire area as required.
Security & Compliance
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain UK security clearance.
Benefits
Mace offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
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- Car allowance
- Hybrid working
- Medical health cover
- Life insurance
- Income protection insurance
- Pension scheme
- Discretionary annual salary reviews
- Family-friendly policies
- 22 days annual leave +
- 2 Mace days
- 3 days Christmas shutdown
- 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service
- Bank holidays
Our Values
Mace’s values are foundational to our workplace culture:
- Safety First – "Going home safe and well": We prioritize safety and wellbeing, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.
- Client Focus – "Deliver on our promise": We ensure high-quality deliverables, build lasting client relationships, and exceed expectations.
- Integrity – "Always do the right thing": We adhere to compliance obligations while driving positive industry change.
- Create Opportunity – "For our people to excel": We champion continuous improvement, empowering individuals to develop and thrive in our culture.
Diversity & Inclusivity
Mace is an inclusive employer. We welcome interest from a diverse range of candidates, regardless of fit to the criteria. If you believe you may be a strong match for this role—or another within Mace—please apply.
We are open to discussing part-time, flexible, or hybrid working arrangements where feasible.
Source: Mace Group PLC (Assessment centre may be part of the recruitment process.)
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