Turnaround Cost Lead

NES Fircroft

Houston (TX)

On-site

USD 140,000 - 160,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

A leading oil and gas company is seeking a Turnaround (TAR) Cost Lead to manage cost estimation and control throughout turnaround events. The role demands close collaboration with event managers and finance teams, expertise in cost tracking and governance, and strong analytical skills. This position offers the opportunity to drive cost efficiencies and contribute significantly to the company's financial performance.

Qualifications

8–10 years of experience in cost control or financial planning.
Strong skills in cost estimation and budgeting for complex projects.
Proficiency in SAP or similar ERP systems.

Responsibilities

Lead cost control activities in accordance with Turnaround Standards.
Manage all aspects of TAR cost tracking and reporting.
Oversee contractor cost tracking and ensure compliance.

Skills

Cost Estimation

Budgeting

Financial Reporting

Leadership

Collaboration

Analytical Skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

SAP

Advanced Excel

Job description

Direct message the job poster from NES Fircroft

Recruitment Consultant I Energy I Oil & Gas

Position Summary:

The Turnaround (TAR) Cost Lead plays a key role in managing cost estimation, control, and reporting throughout all phases of turnaround events. This position ensures alignment with established turnaround processes, supports accurate budgeting, and drives cost efficiency. The TAR Cost Lead works closely with event managers, planners, and finance teams to maintain financial transparency and provide strategic insights for cost optimization and risk management.

Key Responsibilities:

Cost Control & Management

Lead cost control activities in accordance with Turnaround Standards and Best Practices.
Manage all aspects of TAR cost tracking, including budgets, commitments, Value of Work Done (VOWD), spend phasing, and forecasting.
Ensure cost forecasts reflect actual progress as per the TAR schedule.
Provide regular updates to the TA Steering Team on cost deviations during execution.
Oversee contractor cost tracking and ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
Develop and manage cost estimates for Development Funding (AFD1 and AFD2) and final funding approvals.
Review and validate turnaround cost estimates, including pre-spend reports and AFEs.
Prepare and analyze cost reports, highlighting spending trends and future projections.
Identify cost variances and recommend corrective actions.
Work closely with planners, event managers, and support teams to consolidate estimates and manage budgets.
Clearly communicate cost updates, variances, and forecasts to stakeholders.
Lead quarterly financial reviews and ensure alignment with annual spending targets.

Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) & Governance

Set up and maintain WBS in SAP, ensuring accurate tracking through work and purchase orders.
Support governance processes, including AFE preparation and HSSE compliance.
Monitor Change Control processes and ensure all changes are reflected in cost tracking tools.
Lead post-event reviews and participate in Lessons Learned sessions to identify cost-saving opportunities.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline turnaround processes and reduce costs.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (preferred).
8–10 years of experience in cost control, project controls, or financial planning, preferably in oil & gas, chemicals, or heavy industry.
Strong skills in cost estimation, budgeting, and financial reporting for complex projects.
Proficiency in SAP or similar ERP systems, especially in cost tracking and WBS.
Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling, forecasting, and variance analysis.
Strong leadership and collaboration skills, with experience managing cross-functional teams and contractor cost performance.
Analytical mindset with the ability to identify risks, variances, and cost-saving opportunities.
Excellent communication skills, capable of presenting complex financial data to senior stakeholders.
Solid understanding of Change Control processes and cost governance.

Seniority level