Project Controls Manager - Neutron Sciences

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest U.S. Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. Our diverse capabilities span a broad range of scientific and engineering disciplines, enabling the Laboratory to explore fundamental science challenges and accelerate the delivery of solutions to the marketplace.

About the role

The Project Management Office (PMO) seeks a Project Controls Manager to lead a team of project controls analysts. This role involves developing and implementing comprehensive control strategies aligned with project objectives, budget, and schedule targets. The Project Controls Manager will collaborate closely with project leadership and cross-functional teams to establish cost and schedule baselines, track performance, identify and manage risks, handle change requests, and ensure compliance with DOE and ORNL requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and mentorship in all areas of project management for PMO staff.
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination within the PMO.
• Develop and maintain the project Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and accompanying dictionary, logic-driven, resource-loaded schedules, and detailed cost estimates.
• Identify and manage risks, including performing Monte Carlo simulations as needed.
• Manage change control processes.
• Prepare status reports, including those based on Earned Value Management (EVM), ensuring compliance with ORNL and DOE project management governance.
• Conduct project management process and systems training for project staff, focusing on technical control account managers (CAMs).
• Support project reviews, such as project status reviews, stage gate reviews, and earned value system surveillance/compliance reviews.
• Lead funding analysis and develop strategies for handling shortfalls or surpluses.
• Develop reports and meeting structures to highlight potential issues and areas of positive impact.
• Provide guidance on schedules, budgets, and EVMS processes to senior project leadership.
• Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with ORNL’s core values: Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Foster a respectful workplace that promotes equal opportunity.

Requirements

• BS/BA in project or construction management, business, science, engineering, or equivalent combination of education, experience, and specialized training.
• Eight to ten years of experience working with projects and leading project controls activities, including experience with research-based projects within the DOE or Department of Defense (DOD).
• Hands-on experience in an EIA-748 compliant EVMS environment, including setting baselines, incorporating baseline changes, producing monthly reports, and variance analysis.
• Three years of lead or supervisory experience.
• Understanding of project controls best practices regarding scope, time, cost, and change management.
• Understanding of DOE Order 413.3b and EIA-748 compliant EVM.
• Significant hands-on experience with Oracle Primavera, Deltek Cobra or similar cost processors, change control applications, and custom system and report development.
• Strong communication skills and ability to interact successfully with DOE, senior laboratory management, senior project staff, and project controls staff.

Preferred Qualifications

• Five years of project experience in an EIA-748 compliant EVMS environment, including setting baselines, incorporating baseline changes, producing monthly reports, and variance analysis.
• MS in project or construction management, business, engineering, or equivalent.
• Fifteen years of experience performing project controls duties for research-based or construction projects within the DOE Office of Science at a national laboratory.
• Experience training on project management principles or tools, specifically CAM training.
• Solid understanding of ORNL and DOE Office of Science project management best practices.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent.

Special Requirements

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge, requiring a favorable post-employment background investigation, including a declaration of illegal drug activities (including marijuana, regardless of state laws) within the last year.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by HSPD-12 and DOE Order 473.1A.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan and contributory pension plan.
• Life insurance and disability benefits.
• Generous vacation, holidays, and parental leave.
• Legal insurance with identity theft protection.
• Employee Assistance Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts.
• Wellness programs.
• Educational assistance and relocation assistance.
• Employee discounts.
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities.
• Flexible work hours to support work-life balance.