Project Cost Analyst Associate

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized entry-level Project Cost Analyst Associate to support Project Managers (PMs) and project teams in the planning, budgeting, scheduling, forecasting, and cost control of utility capital projects. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates looking to build a career in project controls, project management, or utility operations. This position is responsible for coordinating project cost analysis, budget tracking, schedule management, and performance reporting across multiple projects. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget while supporting best practices throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate project meetings and support Project Managers with project planning, documentation, and ongoing project activities.
• Monitor and analyze project budgets, spending, cash flow forecasts, and cost performance.
• Prepare budget forecasts, variance analyses, estimate-to-actual reporting, and project financial updates.
• Develop and maintain project schedules using Primavera P6 and Smartsheet, including schedule analysis and variance reporting.
• Enter and maintain project budgets, forecasts, and financial information within company corporate systems.
• Assist in establishing and maintaining time-phased baseline budgets aligned with project schedules.
• Create and maintain project breakdown structures and key project performance metrics (KPIs), including scope, schedule, cost, and forecasting performance.
• Track and analyze project financial information, including unvouchered liabilities (UVLs), work orders, and project system records.
• Coordinate work order activities from creation through project closeout.
• Support project contracting activities, including bid support, cost analysis, and contractor cost tracking as needed.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams, vendors, contractors, and stakeholders regarding project budgets, schedules, and financial performance.
• Apply analytical and problem-solving skills to identify issues and recommend effective solutions.
• Support compliance with organizational project management standards, governance requirements, and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) processes where applicable.
• Foster strong partnerships with project teams, customers, vendors, and external contractors to support successful project execution.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate's or Bachelor's degree. No experience required with degrees in a related field from an accredited university or college and could include Accounting, Business, Construction Management, Engineering, Engineering Technology, Project Management, related technical disciplines.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong customer service mindset with the ability to collaborate across multiple teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Additional Requirements

• Some travel, including occasional overnight travel, may be required.
• Ability to safely perform light physical duties at office, home, and field locations as needed.
• Commitment to supporting organizational values, policies, and project governance standards.

About ITS

Integrated Talent Strategies (ITS) is an international recruiting and staffing firm specializing in Engineering, Technical, and Professional placements. Founded in 1984 as a subsidiary of an engineering company, ITS remains a trusted partner for both job seekers and employers.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)