Planning
Planning is central to every project stage, from bidding through to developing coordinated delivery plans and logistics solutions, to checking plans are being adhered to. It runs through all our work.
Planning is central to every project stage, from bidding through to developing coordinated delivery plans and logistics solutions, to checking plans are being adhered to. It runs through all our work.

The best place to build your career
We value planning very highly at Wates. We have a huge pipeline of work, and the strength and proven track record of the Wates Group behind us. As one of our planners, you’ll be joining a brilliant team, in a family-run firm with over 125 years of continued success.
There are a huge range of opportunities too, from trainee planners, and graduates, to assistant planners, project planners, and senior planners. You’ll also get to work on a wide range of projects including residential, education, commercial, and industrial.
At Wates, planning isn’t an isolated role. Here, you’ll genuinely be part of the team. Across the business, we have a strong network of planners. We will also support you along the way with training and CPD as you progress your career with us.

Our people thrive
Whether you have sector experience, fancy a career change, or are returning to work after a break, we’d love to hear from you.
For planning roles, you must be able to interface and communicate effectively with different disciplines, and problem solve through rational and logical thinking. Planners liaise with designers, operational staff, the commercial team, environmental managers and the client to produce coordinated delivery plans. It’s all about collaboration & getting everyone on board. Communication skills are key, including the ability to write reports that can be understood by people from other fields and at managerial levels.
You don’t have to come from a construction background, but you do need a technical and a logical mindset to be able to solve problems. You need to be able to think critically, evaluate a tender and develop a deliverable timeline or programme for the works. You’ll then review the design information and challenge whether it works.
Testimonials
Planning Management Trainee
“Over the past two years, I have embarked on a transformative journey as a Planner Trainee within Wates, a company that prioritises the growth and development of its graduates. Since joining as a graduate trainee, I've had the invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in the intricacies of the construction industry while learning on the job."
Bricklayer Apprentice – Level 2
Location: Barnsley
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 10-03-2026
Whether you’re starting out or changing direction, our apprenticeship offers a welcoming path into the industry. You’ll learn on the job, work with a friendly team, and gain the skills and confidence to succeed.About the roleOur Level 2 Bricklayer Apprenticeship is a great way to begin your career in construction. You’ll gain practical, hands-on experience, learn from experienced professionals, and work towards a nationally recognised qualification. This role is ideal for anyone eager to develop practical skills and contribute to creating safe, high-quality structuresYour Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below: Assisting with the construction and repair of walls, partitions, and other brickwork Learning to read and interpret technical drawings and plans Preparing and mixing materials for bricklaying tasks Laying bricks, blocks, and other materials accurately and safely Helping to maintain a clean and organised work area Following health and safety guidelines at all times Working collaboratively with experienced tradespeople and other team membersAbout you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlineQualifications To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and English You must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector – including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.
Business Administrator Apprentice – Level 3
Location: Barnsley
Job Type: Clerical & Administration
Application Deadline: 10-03-2026
We're looking for motivated, and enthusiastic individuals from all backgrounds to join our Wates family!About the roleOur Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship will give you a clear understanding of Wates Property Services and how we work together to make a difference.As a Business Administration Apprentice, you’ll have the chance to work independently and collaboratively as part of a supportive team.Your Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below. Managing emails and phone calls in a professional and friendly manner Ordering materials and equipment to keep projects running smoothly Logging jobs, uploading documents, and keeping our systems up to date Responding to queries and scheduling contractors Raising purchase orders accurately Preparing clear and concise reports Coordinating contractor bookings Completing administrative tasks within agreed timelinesAbout you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlineQualifications: To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and EnglishYou must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector — including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities.If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.
Carpentry Apprentice – Level 2
Location: Walton-On-Thames
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 10-03-2026
Whether you’re beginning your career or exploring a new opportunity, this is your chance to gain valuable experience, develop new skills, and contribute meaningfully from day one. We welcome your application.About the roleOur Carpentry & Joinery Apprenticeship offers the chance to gain practical experience, learn from skilled professionals, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification while contributing to meaningful projects.From shaping bespoke furniture to installing frameworks and crafting detailed joinery, you’ll enjoy varied tasks and opportunities to develop your skills every day.Your Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below: Assisting with the construction, installation, and repair of wooden structures, fittings, and furniture Learning to read and interpret technical drawings and plans Using a variety of hand and power tools safely under supervision Working with the team to ensure projects are completed to high standards and agreed timelines Following health and safety guidelines and company policies on-site and in the workshop Creating door frames and hanging doors Fitting hinges and installing window frames and floor joists Boxing in pipework Measuring, marking out, cutting, finishing, positioning, and securing wood Safely storing materials to prevent damageAbout you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlineQualifications: To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and English You must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector – including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.
Carpentry Apprentice – Level 2
Location: Brixton
Job Type: Trades and Labour
Application Deadline: 10-03-2026
Whether you’re beginning your career or exploring a new opportunity, this is your chance to gain valuable experience, develop new skills, and contribute meaningfully from day one. We welcome your application.About the roleOur Carpentry & Joinery Apprenticeship offers the chance to gain practical experience, learn from skilled professionals, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification while contributing to meaningful projects.From shaping bespoke furniture to installing frameworks and crafting detailed joinery, you’ll enjoy varied tasks and opportunities to develop your skills every day.Your Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below: Assisting with the construction, installation, and repair of wooden structures, fittings, and furniture Learning to read and interpret technical drawings and plans Using a variety of hand and power tools safely under supervision Working with the team to ensure projects are completed to high standards and agreed timelines Following health and safety guidelines and company policies on-site and in the workshop Creating door frames and hanging doors Fitting hinges and installing window frames and floor joists Boxing in pipework Measuring, marking out, cutting, finishing, positioning, and securing wood Safely storing materials to prevent damageAbout you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadlineQualifications To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and English You must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship in a similar subject.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications. Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector – including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.