Project Controls Scheduling Specialist (00570)

Pmaconsultants; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

PMA Consultants is seeking a Project Controls Scheduling Specialist to lead advanced CPM scheduling, earned value tracking, and schedule reporting across all project phases. The role emphasizes CPM scheduling, critical path analysis, data-driven performance insights, and cross-functional collaboration with stakeholders.

The position offers exposure to multiple industries, including utility infrastructure projects, with opportunities for professional growth and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field required.
• Master’s degree may be considered in lieu of some experience.
• Minimum 5+ years in project controls, scheduling, or construction support.
• Strong experience with Primavera P6.
• Proven CPM schedule development and network scheduling experience.
• Experience with EVM, schedule performance assessment, and reporting.
• Experience with WBS development and resource-loaded scheduling.
• Proficiency in Excel and project controls tools.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• PMI PMP or PSP is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain CPM schedules using Primavera P6 across project phases.
• Own baseline schedules and oversee updates and revisions.
• Perform critical path analysis and identify risks and mitigations.
• Conduct time impact analyses and support change control processes.
• Produce schedule QA/QC and integrate cost-schedule reporting.
• Support cost tracking and integrated reporting with stakeholders.
• Collaborate with PMs, contractors, and departments for schedule alignment.
• Improve scheduling processes and mentor junior team members.

Skills

Communication

Analytical

Stakeholder engagement

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Master's degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Excel

Project controls tools

Job description

Position Summary

The Project Controls Scheduling Specialist provides advanced scheduling and project controls support across all phases of a project, including planning, execution, and closeout. This role is responsible for developing and maintaining project schedules, supporting forecasting efforts, performing schedule analysis, and preparing reports to support project decision‑making.

This position includes ownership of project schedules, critical path analysis, earned value performance tracking, and coordination with project stakeholders to ensure alignment with program goals. A strong understanding of CPM scheduling, cost and schedule integration, and project controls systems is essential.

Note: This opportunity is available at multiple levels. Final placement will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience, skills, and alignment with business needs. We are committed to providing fair and equitable consideration for all applicants.

Scheduling & Forecasting

• Develop and maintain detailed CPM schedules using Primavera P6, including logic, sequencing, durations, milestones, constraints, and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) development
• Own and manage baseline schedules and support ongoing schedule updates and revisions
• Perform critical path analysis and identify schedule risks, delays, and mitigation strategies
• Conduct Time Impact Analyses (TIA) and support schedule change control processes
• Perform schedule QA/QC to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with program objectives
• Support resource‑loaded schedules and integrated cost‑schedule planning and analysis
• Coordinate and lead schedule update meetings with project teams and stakeholders
• Review contractor and subcontractor schedules and provide feedback to ensure compliance and alignment
• Collaborate within project teams to develop and maintain network schedules using advanced scheduling techniques

Reporting & Performance Analysis

• Develop and deliver schedule reports, dashboards, and executive summaries
• Perform earned value analysis (EVA) and track project performance metrics
• Prepare variance analyses and provide insights into project performance trends
• Produce look‑ahead schedules, critical path reports, and schedule narratives
• Assess schedule performance and provide recommendations based on data‑driven analysis
• Prepare ad hoc analyses and reports to support project leadership

Cost & Project Controls Integration

• Support cost tracking and forecasting efforts in coordination with project teams
• Incorporate progress data into schedule updates and integrated cost‑schedule reporting
• Assist with cost‑schedule integration and performance analysis
• Support change management processes and evaluate schedule impacts of scope changes

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Partner with project managers, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure alignment with project schedules and milestones
• Coordinate across multiple departments to support integrated project delivery
• Facilitate communication between stakeholders to drive schedule updates and decision‑making
• Support client engagements and program assignments across multiple industries, including utility infrastructure projects such as transmission, distribution, and substations

Process Improvement & Team Support

• Identify opportunities to improve scheduling processes, tools, and reporting
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of scheduling tools and methodologies
• Support knowledge sharing and provide guidance to junior team members as needed
• Apply critical thinking, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills to project challenges

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field required
• A Master’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field may be considered in lieu of some years of experience
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in project controls, scheduling, or construction project support
• Strong experience with Primavera P6
• Proven experience developing and managing CPM schedules, including critical path analysis and network schedule development
• Experience with earned value management (EVM), schedule performance assessment, and reporting
• Experience with Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) development and resource‑loaded scheduling
• Experience supporting cost‑schedule integration and change control processes
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and project controls tools
• Strong communication, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment
• Professional certifications such as PMP or PSP are a plus
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Additional Requirements

Physical: Standing or sitting for long periods; must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times and spend extended hours in front of a computer screen.

Cognitive: Problem‑solving, written, and verbal communication skills; computer and software skills; and ability to read and interpret text online or in printed form.

We offer competitive pay and benefits, wellness programs for you and your family, and career development opportunities to advance your professional goals. Competitive wages and comprehensive benefits, including medical, prescription, dental, vision, time off with pay, 401(k) with company match, life, disability, and professional development reimbursement for qualifying employees.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), disability, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. Qualified female and minority applicants are encouraged to apply.

EOE, including persons with disabilities and veterans. VEVRAA federal contractor.