Specialist Project Planner

Company Overview

Vanderlande is a global leader in material handling solutions, specializing in the design, manufacture, and implementation of advanced conveyor belt systems. Our clients include major companies such as Amazon, and we are dedicated to delivering high‑quality, efficient solutions for their logistics and distribution needs.

We are looking for an experienced and dynamic Specialist Project Planner to lead the planning and execution of major projects ranging from $150M to $300M. The Planner Specialist is a senior‑level planning professional responsible for developing, maintaining, and analyzing complex project schedules while also serving as a subject matter expert for planning standards, tools, and processes. In addition to performing all Senior Planner duties, this role provides guidance, training, and onboarding support to planners across the department and plays a key role in developing and improving planning processes and governance.

This role demands strong leadership, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced environment with cross‑functional teams.

• Serve as the primary subject matter expert (SME) for planning and scheduling within the department.
• Develop, maintain, and oversee comprehensive project schedules using Primavera P6.
• Identify critical path activities and manage schedule risks to ensure timely project delivery.
• Manage change orders and maintain baseline schedules to reflect accurate project scope and progress.
• Coordinate closely with cross‑functional teams, including engineering, procurement, supply chain, and installation, to align project activities and milestones.
• Conduct regular schedule reviews and updates, providing accurate status reports to stakeholders.
• Analyze project performance data to identify trends, variances, and areas for improvement.
• Lead project planning meetings and facilitate effective communication among team members.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior planners, fostering a collaborative and knowledge‑sharing environment.
• Ensure compliance with company standards and best practices in project planning and execution.
• Establish, maintain, and continuously improve planning standards, templates, and scheduling guidelines.
• Perform schedule quality audits to ensure logic integrity, resource loading, and compliance with internal and client requirements.
• Support development and implementation of new planning tools, systems, and methodologies.
• Partner with leadership to define planning governance, KPIs, and performance metrics.
• Provide advanced schedule analysis, scenario modeling, and recovery planning for at‑risk projects.
• Promote consistency and best practices across multiple projects and regions.

• BS Degree in Engineering, Project Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in project planning, preferably in material handling or related industries.
• Proficient in Primavera P6 and project scheduling methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects with budgets up to $300M.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and develop junior team members.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across diverse teams.
• High attention to detail and a strong sense of accountability.
• Willingness to travel up to 20% for project site visits and meetings.

• PMP or similar project management certification.
• Advanced knowledge of material handling systems and supply chain processes.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering large‑scale projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience working for an international organization.