Principal Project Controls Specialist

COMPA Industries•Aiken, SC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Principal Project Controls Specialist, you will serve as a technical authority and leader in project controls, directly influencing cost, schedule, and performance outcomes for complex DOE capital projects. This role is critical to ensuring successful execution of high-visibility, mission-driven programs through advanced planning, scheduling, and financial analysis.

Requirements

Expert-level experience in Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), Cost & schedule performance analysis, and Baseline development and change control (BCPs)
Proven ability to manage multi-project integrated schedules and cost systems
Advanced proficiency in Primavera P6 (10+ years strongly preferred), Cobra (cost management), Empower, Success, or similar tools
Experience with resource loading, critical path analysis, and forecasting
Strong experience in Cost estimating, budgeting, and forecasting
Strong experience in Financial reporting and variance analysis
Ability to present complex financial data to executive leadership
Deep working knowledge of site business systems and project controls platforms
Proven leadership experience guiding teams and driving project outcomes
Ability to innovate and implement advanced project controls methodologies
Master’s degree in Business, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field with 8+ years experience OR Bachelor’s degree with 10+ years experience OR Equivalent combination (up to 17 years experience in lieu of degree)

Nice To Haves

Active or recent DOE Q or L Clearance
Experience supporting DOE/NNSA/DOD capital projects
10+ years using P6 for schedule performance tracking
10+ years tracking cost performance against project baselines
Experience with Baseline Change Proposals (BCPs)
Experience with Planning & forecast development
Experience with Large-scale nuclear or infrastructure programs
Recognized SME in project controls, EVMS, and scheduling systems
Strong leadership presence with ability to influence senior stakeholders
Analytical thinker with ability to translate data into strategic decisions
Proven track record managing high-risk, high-complexity projects
Self-driven, detail-oriented, and capable of operating with minimal oversight

Responsibilities

Lead the development, implementation, and oversight of total project controls programs across large, complex projects
Develop and manage integrated master schedules, Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), resource-loaded plans and spend forecasts
Perform advanced cost & schedule variance analysis, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions
Lead project cost reviews and schedule performance meetings with senior leadership
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to project controls teams
Drive implementation of Earned Value Management System (EVMS) best practices
Support baseline development, change control (BCPs), and forecasting
Deliver executive-level reporting and financial insights to stakeholders
Maintain and improve utilization of site business systems and project controls tools