Lead Scheduler

Overview

Our client is seeking a Lead Scheduler to support a billion-dollar project in La Porte, TX, for a 10-month assignment. The Lead Scheduler will be responsible for developing, maintaining, and ensuring the successful execution of the overall project schedule for a major chemical facility project. This role requires close coordination with project managers, engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure milestones and deadlines are met on time and within budget.

The role is highly strategic and technical, requiring expertise in scheduling software, project controls, and the specific demands of large industrial projects.

• Schedule Development & Management:
  Lead the creation and maintenance of comprehensive project schedules from inception to completion, covering design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and startup. Ensure all deliverables align with project timelines, milestones, and budget constraints. Work with Project Managers and other stakeholders to establish key dates and major milestones.
• Project Planning and Monitoring:
  Develop detailed work breakdown structures (WBS) to organize project elements into manageable components. Continuously monitor and update schedules, proactively identifying potential risks and delays. Use industry-standard scheduling tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) to track progress and create forecasting reports. Conduct critical path analysis to highlight risks and recommend corrective actions.
• Coordination &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Collaborate with construction teams, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure timely completion of work in accordance with the project schedule. Communicate schedule updates to the project team, clients, and stakeholders, providing clear reporting on project status and any potential schedule slippage. Coordinate across engineering, procurement, and construction to ensure resources are allocated efficiently.
• Risk & Change Management:
  Assess schedule impacts caused by changes in project scope, delays, or unforeseen circumstances, and update the project schedule accordingly. Develop and recommend solutions to mitigate delays and schedule conflicts. Conduct what-if scenarios and sensitivity analysis to predict potential delays and address issues proactively.
• Reporting & Documentation:
  Prepare and submit periodic schedule status reports, highlighting KPIs, progress toward milestones, and potential schedule risks. Maintain detailed and accurate project documentation regarding schedule changes, critical issues, and corrective actions taken.
• Mentorship & Leadership:
  Mentor junior schedulers and project control team members. Lead scheduling-related meetings and contribute to project performance reviews.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred).
• Relevant certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), AACE Certified Scheduling Professional (CSP), or Primavera P6 certification are a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in project scheduling, with at least 5 years focused on large-scale, industrial, or chemical projects (Greenfield/Brownfield).
• Expertise in using scheduling software like Primavera P6 (preferred) or Microsoft Project.
• Proven track record of managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects in the construction or chemical industry.
• Experience in cost and resource-loaded scheduling is highly desirable.

• Strong understanding of project controls, scheduling techniques, and project lifecycle phases.
• Ability to identify potential delays, resolve conflicts, and implement corrective actions quickly.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills to coordinate with both internal teams and external contractors.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and handle high-priority situations.
• In-depth knowledge of the chemical industry, including typical processes, safety requirements, regulations, and challenges in Greenfield and Brownfield environments.
• Familiarity with industry best practices and safety standards for large-scale industrial construction projects.

• Detail-oriented, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt and work in a fast-paced, dynamic project environment.
• A collaborative and proactive mindset to ensure project success across various teams.