Cost Representative

Zachry Group; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Zachry Group in San Antonio, TX is seeking an entry-level Cost Representative to learn cost processes, maintain data integrity, and support earned value tracking. This role offers a path through Cost Representative I‑III with increasing analytics, reporting, and leadership responsibilities.

Ideal candidates will have strong Excel and Power BI skills, plus good written and verbal communication. Relocation to project locations nationwide may be required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Preferred AA or BS in technical or financial disciplines.
• 0–3 years of relevant experience required; 3+ years preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office; familiarity with Power BI and P6.
• Strong written and verbal communication; analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain cost system data integrity and accuracy.
• Assist with earned value tracking and forecasting.
• Generate standard and ad-hoc reports.
• Support contract/commercial analysis.
• Mentor junior cost representatives and coordinate with teams.

Skills

Microsoft Excel

Analytical thinking

Written and verbal communication

Leadership

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or GED

AA or BS preferred in technical/financial disciplines

Tools

Power BI

P6

Cost systems

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Cost Representative series (I, II, III) represents a progressive career path within the Project Cost department. These roles are responsible for maintaining accurate earned value progress and actual cost data through company systems, supporting project controls, and contributing to financial decision‑making. Each level builds upon the previous in terms of technical proficiency, analytical capability, and leadership responsibility.

• Cost Representative I is an entry‑level role focused on learning cost processes and maintaining data integrity.
• Cost Representative II demonstrates intermediate proficiency in cost systems and reporting, with increased responsibility in analytics and collaboration.
• Cost Representative III is a senior‑level role with leadership potential, responsible for advanced analytics, team coordination, and ensuring procedural compliance.

Position Summary

To support project cost control functions by maintaining system accuracy, performing analytics, and producing reports that reflect earned value and actual costs. As employees progress through the Cost Representative levels, they take on more complex tasks, contribute to strategic decision‑making, and may lead or mentor others.

Responsibilities

Cost Representative I

• Maintain cost system data integrity and accuracy.
• Assist with earned value tracking and basic forecasting.
• Generate standard reports for project teams.
• Support contract/commercial analysis.
• Learn and adhere to defined procedures and deadlines.
• Collaborate with team members and communicate effectively.

Cost Representative II

• Maintain and validate cost system data.
• Perform intermediate analytics (BOQ, earned value, forecasting).
• Produce standard and ad‑hoc reports.
• Conduct contract/commercial analysis.
• Participate in meetings and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Ensure adherence to procedures and support team deadlines.

Cost Representative III

• Lead system maintenance and ensure data integrity.
• Perform advanced analytics and scenario evaluations.
• Generate and distribute standard and custom reports.
• Conduct contract/commercial analysis and support strategic decisions.
• Lead meetings and coordinate across departments.
• Mentor junior cost representatives and verify procedural compliance.
• Ensure team meets deadlines and maintains high‑quality output.

Requirements

Education

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from a two‑year college or technical school or bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from a four‑year college or university. Preferred majors: Technical or Financial Business disciplines.

Experience Requirements

• Required: Over 0 to 3 years of relevant experience.
• Preferred: Over 3 years of experience in project cost management or financial analysis.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access).
• Familiarity with cost systems, earned value systems, and reporting tools (Power BI, P6).
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Organizational and time management abilities.
• Leadership and mentoring capabilities.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• General office environment with occasional exposure to construction site conditions.
• Frequent use of computers, calculators, printers, and other office equipment.
• Requires close vision, color perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Fast‑paced and variable work environment.

ZACHRY is dedicated to providing a Safe and Drug‑Free work environment and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Additional Information

Relocation Requirement: Must be willing and able to relocate to a project location anywhere within the United States.