Project Controls Estimating Lead

Role summary / purpose

This is a 24-month assignment providing day-to-day analysis and evaluation of data associated with portfolios, programs, and projects. The position requires a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with expert knowledge and understanding of project controls processes in both cost and schedule. The role applies advanced project controls to ensure high performance standards and maintains data collection, analysis, communication, and reporting tools per Enterprise and PMCoE policies. The position handles multiple projects of varying complexity, uses analytics software for schedule, cost, and risk, communicates project performance including trends and forecasts, and contributes to the analysis of project costs, contracts, schedules, and resources.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and prepare detailed project estimates, including material take-offs and site assessments; lead comprehensive cost estimate preparation from concept through execution; break down projects into work packages and assign costs to labor, materials, equipment, and indirect expenses
• Coordinate with engineering, construction, procurement, and other departments to obtain necessary data for accurate estimates; utilize industry-standard methodologies, tools, and databases to ensure precision and consistency
• Review historical data and apply benchmarking to validate estimate assumptions; account for contingencies, escalation, and potential risks within the estimate structure
• Present estimate methodologies, results, and recommendations to project management and leadership; facilitate estimate reviews and challenge sessions with multi-disciplinary teams
• Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and transparent reports and presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences; act as the primary point of contact for estimation
• Assess, validate, and challenge cost estimates submitted by contractors, consultants, and suppliers; benchmark third-party estimates against internal data and market trends
• Engage in value engineering exercises to optimize project scope and reduce unnecessary costs; ensure all contractual obligations related to cost estimation and reporting are met by external parties
• Champion the adoption and continuous improvement of cost estimation tools, databases, and best practices; maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards and emerging trends
• Provide cost input for procurement strategies, contract negotiations, and bid evaluations; prepare cost assessments and pricing structures for bid evaluation
• Assess the cost impact of project changes, claims, and variations; prepare and evaluate cost estimates for proposed modifications and their impact on overall project budget and schedule
• Support dispute resolution and claims analysis with detailed cost data and rationale
• Ensure all estimating outputs comply with procedural requirements; participate in internal and external audits of cost estimates and processes
• Lead post-project reviews and lessons learned sessions; update cost databases, benchmarks, and tools based on project outcomes and industry developments
• Provide strategic advice and guidance to senior management on project cost and control matters; contribute to resource planning, recruitment, and team leadership as required

Requirements - education & experience

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Engineering, Project Management, or other related degree
• 7 years direct project estimating experience
• Alternatively: High School/GED AND 10+ years related work experience
• Ability to work independently or in groups, think creatively and analytically, and make quick and sound decisions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice-to-have / preferred skills

• Master's degree in Business Administration
• Project Management Professional certification
• Software proficiency: MS Project, MS Office Suite, Primavera, Business Objects, Passport, Powerplant, Emax, Peoplesoft
• Risk management tools and Monte Carlo analysis experience
• Expertise with project management, project controls concepts, computer applications, and analytics
• Heavy civil/earthwork estimating experience, landfill construction, close-out estimating, and wells installation experience

Employment details - type, location, hours

24-month assignment

Impellam Group and its brands are equal-opportunity employers committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application, interview process, pre-employment activity, and the performance of crucial job functions.

If you require additional disability considerations, modifications, or adjustments please let us know by contacting [email protected] or fill out this form to request accommodations.