Project Controls Specialist

Project Controls Specialist (Hybrid)

Michael Baker International is seeking a Project Controls Specialist to support project delivery across our Long Beach and Los Angeles offices. This role partners closely with Project Managers to ensure projects are executed efficiently, on time, and within budget.

This is a hybrid position, requiring regular onsite presence (2–3 days per week) in either the Long Beach or Los Angeles office, with an expectation to reliably commute to Long Beach for training and collaboration.

The ideal candidate is highly analytical, detail-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced consulting environment. You bring a proactive mindset, strong financial acumen, and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights that support project success.

This is a part-time role (30–40 hours/week) with the potential to transition to full-time after a 3-month training period based on performance and business needs.

Support Project Managers with project financial setup, maintenance, and closeout

Assist in implementing financial strategies for program-level contracts

Review and prepare financial components of proposals, including bill rates and fee estimates, ensuring alignment with KPIs and accuracy of calculations.

Participate in internal and client-facing project review and budget meetings

Identify change conditions and support development of change orders and cost estimates

Establish and maintain project cost controls, tracking budgets, actuals, accruals, and commitments

Evaluate project performance and flag risks, variances, or trends

Develop and maintain custom tracking tools, dashboards, and reports

Perform budget vs. actual analysis and cost reconciliation

Utilize advanced Excel tools (pivot tables, formulas, dashboards) for data analysis

Extract and analyze data from systems (e.g., Oracle) to support reporting needs

Analyze large datasets and produce clear, actionable financial insights

Coordinate with Project Managers and billing teams to prepare and process invoices

Track accounts receivable and support timely client payments

Review subconsultant invoices and coordinate payment processing

Provide a high level of internal customer service, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and proactive communication

Support additional project needs to ensure successful delivery and client satisfaction

Required:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)

5+ years of experience in engineering or consulting environments

Experience supporting project controls functions (cost management, budgeting, financial tracking)

Strong knowledge of cost tracking, forecasting, and variance analysis (EAC/ETC)

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formulas, data analysis)

Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail and accuracy

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams (PMs, accounting, billing, clients)

Proven ability to build strong working relationships with Project Managers

Strong problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills

Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Customer-service mindset, treating Project Managers as key internal clients

Preferred:

Experience in a Planning practice

Experience with Oracle E-Business Suite or similar financial systems

Work Requirements:

Hybrid schedule with 2–3 days onsite per week

Ability to reliably commute to Long Beach, CA for training and collaboration

Compensation:

The approximate compensation range for this position is $43.18–$55.00/hour. This compensation range is a good faith estimate at the time of posting. Actual compensation will vary based on factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and geographic location.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability

Professional and personal development opportunities

Generous paid time off

Commuter and wellness benefits