Program Scheduler / Planner

About Meridian

Meridian is a specialized consulting firm focused on program scheduling, program planning, and project controls for complex, high-stakes environments. We support aerospace, defense, and other technical industries by delivering high-quality scheduling, cost management, earned value management, risk analysis, and performance management solutions aligned with industry standards such as EVMS and DCAA compliance.

As a trusted subcontractor to government, commercial and prime contractors, our team provides expert-level support across both schedule and cost disciplines. This includes schedule development, maintenance, and analysis, as well as cost baseline management, EAC/ETC forecasting, variance analysis, and EVMS implementation when required. Our work helps clients improve execution, reduce risk, and maintain compliance across their programs.

We place a strong emphasis on technical excellence, responsiveness, and integrity. Our consultants bring deep domain expertise and leverage custom-built tools and automation to deliver efficient, data-driven insights across integrated cost and schedule environments.

Meridian is a growing firm with a collaborative, high-performance culture, offering the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, mission-critical programs.

About the role

• Develop, maintain, and analyze integrated master schedules (IMS) in tools such as Microsoft Project or Primavera P6
• Collaborate with program managers, CAMs, and cross-functional teams to ensure schedule alignment with scope, budget, and technical objectives
• Perform schedule quality checks and health assessments in accordance with industry best practices and client standards
• Conduct schedule risk analysis (SRA) and support mitigation planning to improve program predictability
• Support Earned Value Management (EVM) processes, including status updates, variance analysis, and reporting
• Prepare and deliver schedule-related metrics and reports for internal leadership and client stakeholders
• Identify critical path, near-critical activities, and key schedule drivers to support informed decision-making
• Assist in baseline development, change control, and schedule updates throughout the program lifecycle
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards such as EVMS guidelines and DCAA expectations
• Contribute to process improvements, tool development, and automation efforts to enhance scheduling efficiency and accuracy

What you'll do

• Build and maintain detailed, resource-loaded project schedules that reflect real program execution
• Partner directly with program leadership and CAMs to translate scope into executable plans
• Lead monthly schedule updates, status collection, and forecast adjustments
• Analyze schedule performance and clearly communicate risks, impacts, and recovery options
• Identify critical path and key drivers, helping teams stay ahead of potential delays
• Support baseline planning, re-baselining efforts, and change management activities
• Develop clear, concise reporting for clients, including schedule metrics and performance insights
• Participate in program reviews and provide scheduling expertise to support decision-making
• Perform schedule risk analysis and contribute to mitigation and contingency planning
• Improve scheduling processes through standardization, automation, and tool enhancements
• Ensure schedules are defensible, audit-ready, and aligned with client expectations

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in program scheduling, project controls, or a related discipline
• Proficiency in scheduling tools such as Microsoft Project and/or Primavera P6
• Experience supporting complex programs within aerospace or defense (NASA, DoD, etc.)
• Working knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles and schedule integration
• Strong understanding of schedule logic, critical path methodology, and best practices for schedule development
• Ability to analyze schedule performance and communicate insights clearly to stakeholders
• Experience supporting schedule updates, baseline management, and change control processes
• Familiarity with industry standards such as EVMS guidelines and DCAA compliance is preferred
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, consistency, and data integrity
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field is preferred
• Must be located within the United States
• Eligible for Security Clearance preferred