| We are seeking an experienced Master Scheduler with a strong technical background, a solution-oriented mindset, and a knack for innovation to manage complex IT project schedules. The ideal candidate will be an advanced user of Microsoft Project and possess the following skills: I. Core Scheduling Expertise: Comprehensive Project Scheduling: Proven ability to develop, maintain, and analyze highly complex, integrated master schedules (IMS) and integrated master plans (IMP) for large-scale IT programs. Critical Path Management: Expert-level understanding and application of critical path methodology (CPM) to identify, analyze, and manage schedule dependencies, float, and potential bottlenecks. Baseline Management: Proficiency in establishing, maintaining, and managing schedule baselines, including detailed variance analysis against baseline. Risk & Opportunity Management: Ability to identify schedule-related risks, develop mitigation strategies, and incorporate schedule contingencies and opportunities. Forecasting & Reporting: Experience in developing accurate schedule forecasts, performance metrics, and executive-level reports that clearly communicate project status, trends, and potential impacts. II. Microsoft Project (MSP) Mastery: Advance MSP Proficiency: Demonstrated advanced expertise in all facets of Microsoft Project (including MSP Professional and/or Project Online/Server), extending beyond basic task entry. This includes: Advanced Features: Custom fields, formulas, graphical indicators, filters, groups, sorts, and outline codes. Multi-Project Management: Experience linking multiple projects, and managing master projects. Reporting & Dashboards: Ability to create sophisticated custom reports, visual reports, and dashboards within MSP or by integrating MSP data with other tools (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint Power BI). Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose and resolve complex MSP file issues, performance problems, and data integrity challenges. Best Practices Implementation: Deep understanding of MSP best practices for schedule structure, data entry, and maintenance to ensure accuracy and usability. Data Integration & Automation: Experience with exporting/importing MSP data and potentially developing macros or scripts (VBA) to automate scheduling tasks or integrate with other systems (e.g., Excel, SharePoint, Jira, Azure DevOps). III. Technical & IT Project Specifics: IT Project Lifecycle Knowledge: In-depth understanding of various IT project methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, Hybrid) and their application to scheduling. Technical Acumen: Demonstrated ability to understand complex technical requirements, and software development processes, translating them into detailed schedule activities and dependencies. System Integration Scheduling: Specific experience scheduling complex system integration projects, including understanding data migration, API development, testing cycles (SIT, UAT), and deployment phases. Infrastructure & Software Deployment: Familiarity with scheduling infrastructure rollouts, software releases, patching cycles, and related technical tasks. Dependency Mapping: Ability to identify and map intricate technical dependencies between different IT components, teams, and external systems. IV. Analytical, Solution-Oriented & Innovative Mindset: ""What-If"" Scenario Analysis: Expertise in performing robust ""what-if"" analyses to evaluate alternative paths, assess impact of changes, and recommend optimal solutions for schedule compression or recovery. Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to proactively identify schedule deviations, anticipate issues, and propose creative, data-driven solutions to keep projects on track. Process Optimization: Drive for continuous improvement in scheduling processes, tools, and methodologies, looking for innovative ways to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Data-Driven Decisions: Ability to leverage schedule data to provide insights, support decision-making, and challenge assumptions constructively. V. Communication & Collaboration: Stakeholder Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively articulate schedule status, risks, and impacts to diverse audiences, including technical teams, project managers, and executive leadership. Facilitation & Negotiation: Proven ability to facilitate schedule review meetings, negotiate activity durations and dependencies with project teams, and build consensus. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with project managers, technical leads, development teams, and other stakeholders." |