Project Controls Specialist

Motive Power Inc; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Motive Power Inc. in Houston, TX is seeking a Project Controls Specialist to support project managers with scheduling, performance management, and risk oversight.

You will develop schedules and Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), analyze variances, maintain risk registers, and report on project health while coordinating across field and office teams. Applicants should bring 5–7 years of project controls experience and a strong analytics mindset.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in project controls or scheduling.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in utilities, construction, oil and gas, or renewable energy industries is a plus.
• Proficiency with Primavera P6 and MS Project.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills.

Responsibilities

• Support project managers with schedule and performance controls.
• Develop and maintain project schedules and Work Breakdown Structures (WBS).
• Analyze variances and identify root causes of deviations.
• Maintain risk registers and mitigation strategies.
• Prepare dashboards and KPIs for project health.
• Promote governance, safety, and quality standards across projects.

Skills

Scheduling

Risk management

Analytics

Communication

Forecasting

Education

PMI PMP certification

CAPM certification

PMI-SP certification

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

Cost management tools

Job description

Motive Power is committed to equitable and competitive compensation practices in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Company Overview

At Motive Power, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional results in projects while prioritizing excellence and sustainability. Our team of experts thrives on complex challenges, consistently exceeding client expectations and making a positive impact on the world. We strive to transform the world into a more sustainable place through our projects.

Job Description

We are seeking a Project Controls Specialist to support project managers in implementing effective schedule and performance management controls. You will develop and maintain schedules and Work Breakdown Structures, analyze variances and contractor performance, maintain risk registers, and report on project health. You will work collaboratively across field and office environments to support project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Support project managers in implementing effective schedule and performance management controls.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, plans, and Work Breakdown Structures (WBS).
• Analyze and report variances between planned and actual progress; identify root causes and recommend corrective actions.
• Perform schedule reviews to validate data accuracy and assess project health.
• Analyze contractor schedules and performance trends; provide insights on progress, risks, and forecasted outcomes.
• Maintain and update risk registers; assist in identifying risks, impacts, and mitigation strategies.
• Support the change management process by documenting, tracking, and reporting approved project changes.
• Prepare performance dashboards and key performance indicators (KPIs) to report project portfolio health.
• Apply project management and controls best practices across different contract types and project sizes.
• Promote safety, quality, and compliance with established project governance and standards.
• Work collaboratively across field and office environments to support project execution.

Typical Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency in project controls methodologies including scheduling, and risk management.
• Experience with project controls software such as Primavera P6, MS Project, and cost management tools.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and reporting skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary project teams.
• Knowledge of project change management, earned value management (EVM), and forecasting principles.

Requirements

• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in project controls, scheduling, or related project management support.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in utilities, construction, oil and gas, or renewable energy industries is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications (not required)

• PMI certified PMP or similar certification (CAPM, PMI-SP).
• AACE certification (CCT, CST, CCP, or PSP).

Position Suitability

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled project controls professional who will play a key role in supporting the timely and successful completion of projects. If you are passionate about scheduling, analysis, and problem-solving, this role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a diverse portfolio of projects. Your expertise in project controls methodologies, communication, and collaboration will be instrumental in driving project success.

At Motive Power, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that reflects our dedication to ESG principles. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at all levels of the organization. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position or to participate in the interview process, please contact us at [e-mail] to discuss your needs.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

About Motive Power, Inc.

Motive Power is a dynamic consulting firm specializing in the US Utility industry, offering innovative solutions that enable clients to achieve their corporate sustainability and decarbonization goals. We provide comprehensive project delivery, developing and mentoring teams, and expanding our utility business, all while championing ESG and decarbonization initiatives. Our commitment to enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability is at the core of our organizational development, data innovation, and change adoption expertise. We take a holistic approach, streamlining project management, optimizing processes, and leveraging data-driven insights to foster sustainable growth. Our people‑centric change management strategies ensure seamless transitions and alignment with strategic sustainability objectives. With a strong focus on sustainability, we empower organizations to not only improve their performance but also make a lasting positive impact on society and the environment.