Project Cost Analyst (Job Family)

NiSource • Valparaiso, IN

2d • $62,000 - $144,900 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a detail-oriented Project Cost Analyst to support cost management across the full project lifecycle. This role may be filled at the Associate, Project, or Senior level, depending on experience and demonstrated capability. In this role, you will apply project cost management methodologies, tools, and systems to develop estimates, manage budgets, track performance, and drive cost control. You will partner closely with project managers, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to ensure accurate forecasting, reporting, and decision support.

Requirements

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on data accuracy and integrity
• Ability to communicate complex cost information clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
• Effective collaboration skills and the ability to influence stakeholders across all levels
• Experience working independently while managing multiple priorities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced preferred) and familiarity with project controls systems
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience)
• 0–3 years of experience in project controls, finance, or cost analysis (for Associate level)
• Foundational knowledge of estimating, budgeting, and project cost tracking (for Associate level)
• Strong Excel/data analysis skills (for Associate level)
• 3–6 years of relevant experience (for Project level)
• Experience with project estimating, budgeting, forecasting, and earned value management (for Project level)
• Working knowledge of project scheduling and integration with cost (for Project level)
• Ability to manage cost processes independently on small to mid-sized projects (for Project level)
• 6+ years of relevant experience, preferably in large capital or industrial projects (for Senior level)
• Advanced expertise in cost management, forecasting, and project controls integration (for Senior level)
• Strong experience with EVM, risk-based cost analysis, and stakeholder leadership (for Senior level)
• Ability to lead cost efforts across complex projects and mentor junior analysts (for Senior level)
• Valid driver’s license (in-state)

Nice To Haves

• Experience in large industrial or capital project environments
• Familiarity with AACE, PMI, or construction/project controls standards
• Experience with project scheduling tools and integrated cost/schedule systems

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and continuously improve project cost estimates, budgets, and cost performance baselines
• Monitor and analyze cost performance, identifying variances and recommending corrective, preventive, and predictive actions
• Manage Estimate at Completion (EAC), forecasting, and cost trending throughout the project lifecycle
• Support earned value management (EVM) and performance reporting
• Implement and maintain cost change control processes
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure accurate cost planning, reporting, and alignment to project objectives
• Integrate cost management with schedule and scope to ensure holistic project controls
• Review contractor estimates and validates forecasts and cost assumptions
• Support contract and commercial activities, including invoice validation, payments, and performance tracking
• Process and analyze labor, invoices, and accruals, ensuring proper coding and alignment to WBS and cost structures
• Develop and maintain Basis of Estimates (BOE) documentation
• Produce regular and ad hoc cost reports and dashboards for stakeholders and leadership
• Apply risk-informed cost analysis, incorporating uncertainty and schedule impacts into forecasts
• Continuously improve tools, templates, and processes aligned with industry standards (AACE, PMI, etc.)

Benefits

• Continuous service to customers at all times
• Opportunity to play a critical role in delivering successful projects by driving cost transparency, accuracy, and performance
• Work in a collaborative environment where insights directly influence key project decisions
• Named by Forbes magazine as one of America’s Best Large Employers
• Inclusive, innovative company that fosters opportunity for growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level