Lead Scheduler

The Lead Scheduler is responsible for developing, managing, and overseeing project schedules across all phases of construction, from preconstruction planning through project closeout, including baseline schedules and schedule updates using applicable software. This role ensures that project timelines are accurate, achievable, and aligned with overall project objectives, while proactively identifying risks and mitigation strategies.

Operating within a construction management consulting environment, the Lead Scheduler collaborates closely with project managers, estimators, field teams, and clients to manage project schedules at all levels of project phase developments. This position also provides leadership and mentorship internally and supports the continuous improvement of scheduling standards and practices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain project schedules, incorporating all activities, milestones, and dependencies and cost load/code as needed per project requirements

• Monitor project progress and make adjustments to minimize delays and maintain timelines

• Develop TIA’s following industry’s best practices (AACE) and recovery schedules as needed

• Review and analyze contractors’ baseline schedules and monthly updates, identifying inconsistencies, risks, and opportunities for improvement. Be able to present findings to owners and stakeholders, clearly communicating technical insights and recommendations in a way that supports informed decision-making

• Utilize scheduling software such as Primavera and Microsoft Project. Speed and accuracy are critical—this role requires someone who can efficiently navigate P6 to produce high-quality outputs under tight deadlines

• Knowledge of construction methodologies, materials, and labor to create precise and comprehensive schedules

• Capable of working independently in developing detailed construction schedules with minimal external input to build accurate and realistic schedules

• Building Vertical Construction Knowledge is required

• Experience with Federal contracts is preferred

Scheduling Strategy & Leadership

• Lead the development and oversight of project schedules for multiple concurrent construction projects

• Establish scheduling standards, methodologies, and best practices across the organization

• Review and validate project schedules to ensure accuracy, logic, and alignment with project goals

• Present schedule updates, critical path analysis, and recommendations to leadership and clients

Schedule Development & Management

• Develop detailed baseline schedules using Critical Path Method (CPM) for all phases of construction

• Create conceptual, preconstruction, and construction schedules aligned with project scope and sequencing

• Update and maintain schedules throughout the project lifecycle, tracking progress and performance

• Integrate subcontractor schedules and milestones into the master project schedule

Risk Analysis & Mitigation

• Identify schedule risks, constraints, and potential delays early in the project lifecycle

• Perform what-if scenarios and schedule time impact analyses

• Develop mitigation strategies and recovery plans to maintain project timelines

• Monitor critical path activities and proactively address potential impacts

Project Coordination & Communication

• Collaborate with project managers, estimators, superintendents, architects, and engineers to align schedules with execution plans

• Participate in project meetings, providing baseline schedules, schedule updates and insights as needed

• Support preconstruction efforts by aligning schedule development with estimating and procurement strategies

• Communicate schedule expectations and changes to all stakeholders

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor and support schedulers and project team members on scheduling best practices

• Provide training on scheduling tools, methodologies, and processes

• Promote consistency, accuracy, and quality across all project schedules

Systems, Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain scheduling systems and software tools, ensuring proper utilization and data integrity

• Stay current on industry trends, scheduling technologies, and best practices

• Support business development efforts by contributing schedule input to proposals and RFP responses

• Participate in post-project reviews to identify lessons learned and improve scheduling processes

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred but not required
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered

Experience

• Minimum of 7 years of construction scheduling experience

• Demonstrated experience managing schedules for Federal, Public Works (K-12 Education), Transportation/Infrastructure, Healthcare/VA projects

• Experience working within a general contractor or construction management consulting environment preferred

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in scheduling software such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project
• Strong understanding of Critical Path Method (CPM) scheduling
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities
• Deep understanding of construction sequencing, logistics, and project execution
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and take direction from senior staff while also exercising initiative on assigned tasks