Project Controls Specialist

General Position Summary

The Project Controls Specialist is responsible for developing the planning, scheduling, and cost control activities for engineering and client capital projects. This role is responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates and developing and maintaining preliminary project schedules for projects during the conceptual and early design phases. This role involves analyzing project requirements, collaborating with stakeholders, and utilizing industry knowledge to provide reliable cost and schedule projections. The project controls specialist plays a critical role in helping organizations make informed decisions about project feasibility and budgeting, and in helping organizations plan and allocate resources effectively, providing a foundation for successful project execution.

Reporting Structure and Career Growth Potential

• Direct Reports – None
• Potential career growth to discipline manager

Major Duties & Responsibilities

• Work as a lead on project teams, assuring that the work is accurate and coordinated and that the quality assurance measures have been followed
• Ensure development of consistent and high-quality project deliverables
• Provide timely services that meet the needs of the clients and the overall project schedule requirements
• Work with Salas O’Brien divisions across North America to pursue project opportunities
• Complete all required Salas O’Brien training
• Able to demonstrate a high standard of professionalism, customer service
• Stay abreast of relevant industry developments and technology advancements
• Will always adhere to our core values and beliefs
• Estimating
  • Develop preliminary cost estimates based on conceptual designs and project requirements
  • Analyze project specifications, drawings, and other documentation to prepare accurate cost projections
  • Utilize historical data, industry benchmarks, and cost databases to inform estimates
  • Identify potential cost risks and opportunities, and provide recommendations for cost optimization
  • Prepare and present cost estimate reports to stakeholders, including detailed breakdowns and assumptions
  • Maintain and update cost estimating databases and tools
  • Support the development of project budgets and financial plans
• Scheduling
  • Develop preliminary project schedules based on conceptual designs and project requirements
  • Identify critical paths, key milestones, and dependencies within the project timeline
  • Utilize scheduling software and tools to create and maintain project schedules
  • Analyze project timelines to identify potential risks and recommend mitigation strategies
  • Prepare and present schedule reports to stakeholders, including detailed breakdowns and assumptions
  • Monitor and update schedules as project details evolve
  • Support the development of project plans and resource allocation strategies

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.  Duties and responsibilities may be added or changed as deemed appropriate by management at any time.

Skills & Abilities

• Software:
  • Aspen Tech – Capital Cost Estimator or In-Plant Estimator
  • Oracle Primavera P6
  • Microsoft Project
  • Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Bluebeam
• Ability to read and understand drawings and technical specifications
• Working knowledge of Industry Standards i.e. American Association Cost Engineers (AACE)
• Proven experience in cost estimating, preferably in the conceptual phase of projects
• Exposure to construction logistics, means, and methods is preferred.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills
• Proficiency in cost estimating software and tools (e.g., RSMeans, CostX)
• Proven experience in project scheduling, preferably in the conceptual phase of projects
• Proficiency in scheduling software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project)
• Interprets and ensures conformance to applicable company policies and procedures
• Works closely with other related disciplines to ensure coordinated design systems
• Excellent listening, written and verbal communication skills, and is sensitive to the need to change their personal behavior quickly when needed to effectively communicate and coordinate with others
• Good attention to detail and the ability to recognize discrepancies
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability and willingness to abide by Salas O’Brien’s Code of Conduct
• Functions effectively as part of a team
• Understand, comply with and support Salas O’Brien’s safety initiatives
• Desire to learn and grow, self-motivated for success
• Able to delegate and be delegated to
• Ability to multi-task
• Dependability
• Good time management and organizational skills

Education & Experience

• +5 years of applicable industry experience
• Field experience in the construction industry managing budgets and schedules is a plus
• Bachelors of Science degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Project Management, or relevant industry experience.

Work Environment/Job Conditions

This job is performed in the office. Activities and responsibilities require frequent sitting (often working on a computer), frequent driving, flying, walking, standing, light lifting, bending, and reaching. Due to tool and computer usage, there may be repetitive motions of the hands and wrists.

EEO Statement

Salas O’Brien is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status, such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or age.