What Is a Project Planner and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A project planner organizes and tracks resources for a project, typically in the construction industry. As a project planner, you research vendors, develop budgets, and create plans with the developers and clients. During production, you monitor contractors and other building professionals to ensure that the project moves according to specifications and follows the budget and scheduling guidelines. Project planners may also handle regulatory issues regarding construction, such as environmental impact reports, land entitlement, and feasibility reports. This position works in conjunction with a project manager, though one person may hold the two roles.

To become a project planner you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Acquire a position working with construction projects to learn the different aspects of the industry, including traffic mitigation, geoengineering, site planning, and managing contractors. Take on leadership roles when available to gain management experience. Once you have worked in the industry for several years, seek project planner positions with construction companies and development firms.