Principal Project Control Specialist

Overview:
We are seeking a Principal Project Controls Specialist to join our team supporting a complex, high-visibility program for our Client. This role requires expert-level project controls experience and the ability to obtain and maintain a DOE "Q" security clearance.

Duties:
Responsible for the organization, development, implementation, maintenance and accountability of total project controls, financial analysis, and estimating applications designed to provide management with the full capability of maintaining planning, scheduling, financial analysis, and cost control throughout the life cycle of a very complex or unique project or program.

Under limited supervision, this role performs project controls activities and prepares business/financial plans and reports on a periodic or ad hoc basis, including:

• Demonstrating proficient ability and knowledge in developing cost and schedule baselines, milestone schedules, work breakdown structures, and spend-out plans to establish optimum conditions and effective utilization of resources and facilities, including equipment, manpower, and funding.
• Utilizing advanced project control concepts to demonstrate expertise and leadership in the application of controls, including development of advanced system applications; providing state-of-the-art technical control expertise to guide subordinates in complex, multi-project integrated area analysis and problem correction.
• Participating in routine project cost reviews/schedule meetings.
• Developing and implementing a basic change management system for engineering and construction assigned work scope.
• Analyzing variances in cost and schedule performance against plan, and communicating reasons for variance and proposed mitigation plans to management.
• Understanding the business environment and operations of the area being supported.
• Providing the key linkage between the Client and the planning process, actively contributing to the control of the Client's business unit.
• Performing financial analysis techniques, including variance analysis, statistical analysis, and scenario analysis, as requested by management.
• Developing costing rates, explaining costing rates for the budget process, maintaining rates in PeopleSoft, and analyzing pool variances (Assigned Overhead and Service Pools).
• Performing extensive analysis of business operations to ascertain funding limitations and execute appropriate cost controls; identifying productivity and financial issues; designing highly integrated financial controls; and creating cost-effective processes to enhance productivity.
• Defining requirements and developing models for complex business systems; developing test plans and scenarios; incorporating major system enhancements into existing financial applications; overseeing project implementation and monitoring system effectiveness.
• Initiating and directing special studies, developing business solutions for complex problem areas, and translating leadership's conceptual ideas into operating plans.
• Preparing comprehensive monthly financial reports including analyses, forecasts, and spend plans.
• Assembling, analyzing, and interpreting information to create innovative solutions to complex business issues.
• Providing leadership, technical direction, and training to other Project Controls personnel.
• Understanding CAS/FAR principles.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Master's degree in Business, Construction Management, Technical, Engineering, or related field, plus 5 years of practical experience; OR
• Bachelor's degree in a related field plus 7 years of practical experience; OR
• Associate's degree plus 11 years of practical experience; OR
• High school diploma plus 15 years of relevant experience.

Experience/Skills:

• Strong personal computer skills.
• Expert proficiency in automated accounting, cost management, scheduling, and estimating systems.
• Practical experience with Client business systems.
• Comprehensive knowledge of project management and cost/schedule control at the tactical level.
• Knowledge of operations, maintenance, or project startup and construction.
• Primavera and COBRA experience required.

Security Requirements:

• Candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a DOE "Q" security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active DOE clearance (L or Q) held within the past two (2) years is preferred.