Project Cost Analyst

Location: Columbus, OH

Duration: Contract to Hire

 

Summary

We are seeking a Project Cost Analyst – Transmission & Capital Projects to support a high-visibility portfolio of competitive transmission and infrastructure projects. This role is heavily focused on forecasting, budgeting, cost analysis, variance reporting, and project financial controls, supporting Project Managers across multiple active capital initiatives. The ideal candidate brings a well-rounded blend of financial analysis, project controls, budgeting, contractor cost coordination, and accounting principles, with experience in utility, construction, or infrastructure environments. This is a 5-day onsite opportunity for local Columbus candidates, with strong long-term conversion potential.

 

Responsibilities

Support Project Managers with budget development, forecasting, variance analysis, and cost controls across multiple capital projects

Prepare cash flow forecasts, spend plans, estimate-vs-actual reporting, and cost trend analysis

Maintain project budgets within enterprise cost and financial systems

Develop and manage time-phased baseline budgets and project breakdown structures

Track and report KPIs, earned value metrics, and measurable project cost outcomes

Coordinate project meetings and support documentation, planning, and cost governance

Create, manage, and close project work orders

Partner with contractors and vendors to integrate external costs into project budgets and schedules

Support contracting workflows, bid cost analysis, requisitions, and financial documentation

Assist with SOX controls, UVL analysis, capital planning, annual budgets, and five-year forecasts

Maintain accurate project records and ensure adherence to governance standards

Mentor junior team members and support best practices within the cost controls workstream

Identify opportunities for process improvements, tools optimization, and reporting enhancements

Support broader environmental stewardship, service delivery, and operational performance initiatives

 

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Construction Management, Engineering, Technology, Project Management, Finance, or related field with 1+ year of relevant experience

 OR

Associate’s degree in a related field with 3+ years of relevant experience

Strong hands-on experience in forecasting, budgeting, cost analysis, and variance reporting

Experience with project budgets, cash flow forecasting, and accounting principles

Experience supporting capital projects, infrastructure programs, or construction-related budgets

Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office proficiency

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication and stakeholder partnership skills

High attention to detail and strong organizational abilities

Must be a local candidate in Columbus or New Albany, Ohio

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship

 

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in competitive transmission, utility, infrastructure, EPC, or capital construction environments

Exposure to earned value management (EVM), project controls, KPI dashboards, and schedule integration

Experience with SOX, UVLs, work orders, capital requisitions, and long-range planning

Familiarity with ERP, enterprise cost systems, or corporate accounting platforms

Experience working directly with vendors, contractors, and procurement teams

Prior exposure to FERC 1000, transmission bids, grid modernization, or large utility capital programs

Experience mentoring junior analysts or supporting team process improvements