Senior Cost Controls Specialist/Engineer

The CARIAN Group; SOUTH PLAINFIELD (NJ); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading management consulting firm in South Plainfield, New Jersey, is seeking a Senior Cost Controls Specialist/Engineer to support cost management functions. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience in cost control and financial planning. Responsibilities include developing project budgets, performing variance analysis, and preparing financial reports. Excellent communication skills and proficiency in cost management tools are essential. This full-time position offers a hybrid work model.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in cost control or financial planning, preferably in utilities, construction, or energy sectors.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain project budgets and forecasts.
• Perform variance analysis to identify cost discrepancies.
• Manage accruals and prepare financial reports.

Skills

Cost management tools

Forecasting

Variance analysis

Budget management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field

Tools

Primavera P6

SAP

Job description

Location: South Plainfield, New Jersey (Hybrid – up to 3 days a week in the office)

Position Type: Full-Time

About Us

CARIAN is a leading, women-owned management consulting and advisory firm specializing in program management and project delivery services for the utilities market, including power, nuclear, renewables, and data centers. Our mission is to deliver innovative solutions and drive meaningful results for our clients.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Senior Cost Controls Specialist/Engineer with 7+ years of experience to support cost management functions, including forecasting, variance analysis, invoice review, accruals, financial planning, and project estimates. This role is critical in ensuring the financial success of projects by providing accurate cost reporting, analysis, and strategic insights.

Responsibilities

• Develop, monitor, and maintain project budgets and forecasts, ensuring alignment with project objectives.
• Perform variance analysis to identify and explain cost discrepancies, recommending corrective actions when necessary.
• Manage accruals and prepare monthly financial reports, including cost-to-complete and cost-at-completion analyses.
• Oversee invoice processing and validation to ensure compliance with contractual terms.
• Collaborate with project managers and stakeholders to develop and refine project estimates and budgets.
• Provide detailed financial planning and analysis, supporting decision-making processes.
• Prepare and present cost control reports, dashboards, and presentations to clients and internal teams.
• Ensure compliance with client requirements, industry standards, and best practices in cost control.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in cost control or financial planning, preferably in the utilities, construction, or energy sectors.
• Proficiency in cost management tools and software such as Primavera P6, SAP, or similar platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with experience in forecasting, variance analysis, and project estimates.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to present complex financial information clearly.
• PMP, CCP, or related certifications are a plus.

CARIAN takes pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, citizenship, gender expression or identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local legally protected class.

As a Woman‑Owned Business Enterprise, CARIAN is committed to providing employment opportunities to women, veterans, and underrepresented minorities.

CARIAN does not sponsor H-1b visas at this time.