Cost Specialist

The Cost Specialist is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of project finances. This includes initial budgeting, real-time tracking, variance analysis, and final cost reporting. You will act as the bridge between the project management team and the finance department, ensuring every dollar spent is accounted for and aligned with the strategic goals of the organization.Key Responsibilities:Budget Development: Collaborate with engineers and procurement to establish baseline budgets and Work Breakdown Structures (WBS).Cost Monitoring: Track actual expenditures against the plan, identifying trends before they become "budget busters."Forecasting: Use Earned Value Management (EVM) to predict "Estimate at Completion" (EAC) and "Estimate to Complete" (ETC).Variance Analysis: Investigate and explain discrepancies between planned costs and actual costs.Change Management: Evaluate the cost impact of project scope changes and update financial forecasts accordingly.Reporting: Prepare monthly financial dashboards for stakeholders, highlighting risks, opportunities, and cash flow requirements.Required Skills & Qualifications:Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance (Accounting).Analytical Rigor: Proficiency in Advanced Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUPs, Power Query) is non-negotiable.Software Knowledge: Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) or project management tools (Primavera P6, Deltek Cobra).Methodology: Strong grasp of the project lifecycle and cost-control principles.Soft Skills: The ability to tell a story with data. You need to explain complex financial risks to non-financial managers.#J-18808-Ljbffr