Job Description
The Program Planning and Scheduling Analyst supports complex programs by developing and maintaining integrated master plans and schedules that ensure all program objectives are met. This role plays a key part in aligning cost, schedule, and technical performance across multiple functional teams, using advanced project management tools and Earned Value Management techniques to monitor progress and drive timely decision-making.
ResponsibilitiesPrepare, develop, and coordinate the Integrated Master Plan (IMP) and Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) to align with all program objectives.Ensure major project and program schedules are horizontally and vertically integrated across functional groups, including finance, engineering, material, manufacturing, and quality.Develop, maintain, and update detailed schedules that accurately reflect work scope, resource requirements, and program milestones.Track plans and schedules to monitor progress against baseline commitments and identify schedule variances.Perform schedule risk analysis to identify potential issues, critical paths, and schedule drivers that could impact program performance.Identify and resolve critical path and network logic conflicts to maintain realistic and achievable schedules.Utilize Gantt charts, PERT charts, milestone charts, and other project management tools to present schedule status and trends.Apply Earned Value Management (EVM) and other project management techniques to gauge performance, identify variances, and support cost and schedule forecasting.Analyze schedule and Earned Value data to highlight performance issues and recommend corrective actions.Collaborate with cross-functional teams to collect schedule inputs, validate assumptions, and ensure alignment with program goals.Support the development and maintenance of Resource Loaded Schedules (RLS) and Schedule Risk Assessments (SRA) as needed.Use specialized tools such as Deltek Cobra and Deltek Acumen Risk to support EVM and schedule risk analysis, where applicable.Prepare and deliver clear schedule and performance reports to program leadership and stakeholders.Maintain compliance with internal program planning standards and applicable customer or government requirements related to scheduling and EVM.Essential SkillsProficiency in Microsoft Project, including experience developing and maintaining Integrated Master Schedules (IMS).Experience working with Earned Value Management Systems and applying project management principles.Ability to develop, analyze, and maintain complex program schedules and integrated master plans.Strong understanding of critical path methodology, network logic, and schedule risk analysis.Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams such as finance, engineering, material, manufacturing, and quality.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify schedule risks and propose mitigation strategies.Proficiency in using Gantt charts, PERT charts, milestone charts, and related project management tools.Active Department of Defense (DoD) Top Secret (TS) and/or Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance, as frequently required for the role.Strong written and verbal communication skills to present schedule data and performance insights to stakeholders.High level of attention to detail and accuracy in schedule development and maintenance.Additional Skills & QualificationsPrevious experience working in the aerospace and defense industry.Experience with specialized tools such as Deltek Cobra and Deltek Acumen Risk.Expert-level Microsoft Project skills, including advanced scheduling techniques.Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including Macros and VBA for data analysis and reporting.Experience developing and managing Resource Loaded Schedules (RLS).Experience performing Schedule Risk Assessments (SRA).Direct experience with Earned Value Management Systems and familiarity with EVM health metrics.Background working on complex, multi-functional programs with stringent customer and regulatory requirements.Work Environment
This is an on-site position with a standard work schedule of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The role operates in a professional office environment within a structured program setting, collaborating closely with engineering, finance, material, manufacturing, and quality teams. Work involves extensive use of project management software such as Microsoft Project and tools like Deltek Cobra and Deltek Acumen Risk, as well as common office productivity applications including Microsoft Excel. Travel is not required for this position, and teleworking is not available.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of San Diego, CA.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $75.00 - $90.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job\n classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be\n subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits\n available for this temporary role may include the following:\n\n
• Medical, dental & vision\n
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital\n
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available\n
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)\n
• Short and long-term disability\n
• Health Spending Account (HSA)\n
• Transportation benefits\n
• Employee Assistance Program\n
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 22, 2026.
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\nAbout Aston Carter\n\n
Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.
\n\nThe company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
\nIf you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.
\n\nSan Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
\n\nMassachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
\n\nUse of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
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