Program Schedule Manager

About the role

Proxima Fusion is on the lookout for a Program Schedule Manager who will be instrumental in creating and managing the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for Alpha, our pioneering fusion demonstrator. This position is pivotal in establishing scheduling frameworks, integrating various project elements, and ensuring that program timelines are met with precision. As a key player in the development of the first commercial stellarator fusion power plant, you will help shape the future of energy.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and oversee the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for the Alpha fusion demonstrator, ensuring it encompasses all aspects including architecture, coding, and reporting.
• Integrate sub-schedules from various domains such as infrastructure, suppliers, manufacturing, and engineering to create a cohesive program overview.
• Establish critical milestones, program gates, and interdependencies across all project workstreams to ensure alignment and progress.
• Continuously identify and update the critical and near-critical paths of the program to maintain focus on essential deliverables.
• Provide proactive alerts regarding schedule risks, potential delays, and their implications for downstream activities.
• Conduct thorough schedule analysis to support the development of recovery plans, mitigation strategies, and informed decision-making regarding trade-offs.
• Keep the IMS updated, accurate, and reliable as a vital program management tool for all stakeholders.
• Assist in PMO governance, facilitate release-gate decisions, and participate in executive program reviews to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Deliver clear insights and recommendations regarding the schedule to leadership as the Alpha program progresses and evolves.
• Foster a culture of schedule discipline and alignment among internal teams, external suppliers, and delivery partners to enhance collaboration.
• Ensure that the program has a comprehensive plan for measuring progress, performance, and readiness at all stages.
• Collaborate closely with the Cost Controller to ensure that schedule and cost forecasts are in sync with program assumptions and expectations.
• Contribute to the enhancement of the PMO's overall project controls framework to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Requirements

• Proven experience in managing integrated schedules for significant capital projects in sectors such as energy, industrial, research infrastructure, or other complex, multidisciplinary initiatives.
• Ability to create an IMS architecture from the ground up, rather than merely maintaining an existing structure.
• Proficient in using scheduling tools tailored for large-scale, complex projects, and comfortable managing federated schedule inputs from diverse sources.
• Strong capability to enforce schedule discipline among internal engineers and external partners, blending analytical skills with effective communication.
• Comfortable working independently in a dynamic program environment, with the ability to define frameworks without needing explicit guidance.
• Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the team and with stakeholders.

Nice to have

• Experience that includes both building construction and equipment/plant supply chains, providing a well-rounded perspective on project management.
• Proficiency in the German language to facilitate communication in a local context.
• Familiarity with AI tools and modern digital working methods that can enhance project management efficiency.

Skills & tools

• Integrated Master Schedule (IMS)
• Project scheduling software
• Schedule analysis techniques
• Critical path method expertise

Practical notes

This position is classified as "L3" within our internal framework, and further details regarding this classification can be shared during the recruitment process. The interview process will consist of several stages, including a Recruiter Interview lasting between 30 to 60 minutes, a Technical Screening of approximately 30 minutes, a Technical Panel comprising three interviews of 60 minutes each, and a final call with the CEO lasting around 30 minutes.

Joining Proxima Fusion as a Program Schedule Manager offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of fusion energy development. If you are passionate about project management and want to contribute to a groundbreaking initiative, we encourage you to apply and be part of our mission to revolutionize energy production.