Project Controller

Full Desk Recruiter | Executive, Professional, & Interim Recruiting Division: Finance / PMO Reports To: VP, Programs Location: Confidential – U.S.-Based Overview Our client, a U.S.-based defense-focused manufacturer, is seeking an experienced PMO Controller to support a portfolio of complex government programs. This role is responsible for establishing and maintaining the governance framework for the Program Management Office (PMO), with a strong emphasis on financial control, program performance, compliance, and enterprise-level reporting. The PMO Controller provides executive leadership with a consolidated, transparent view of program health, risks, and financial status across the portfolio. Key Responsibilities Program Financial Control and Reporting Develop, implement, and manage standardized financial tracking and reporting procedures across all programs, including EVMS and Cost Performance Reports. Lead budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis to ensure adherence to approved funding. Conduct financial reviews and audits of control accounts and work packages. Prepare and present portfolio-wide performance reports, metrics, and KPIs to internal leadership and external stakeholders as needed. Governance and Compliance Establish PMO methodologies, standards, tools, and templates to ensure consistency across programs. Ensure compliance with DFARS, CAS, and contract-specific regulatory requirements. Manage governance structures including program reviews, steering committees, and gate reviews. Drive continuous improvement using industry best practices such as CMMI and ISO standards. Risk and Change Management Oversee portfolio-level risk and opportunity management, ensuring visibility of all risks, mitigations, and impacts. Manage the formal change control process for scope, schedule, and budget. Ensure all baseline changes are evaluated, approved, documented, and communicated. Resource and Portfolio Management Partner with functional leaders to optimize resource allocation across the program portfolio. Maintain a master integrated schedule across programs, identifying dependencies and critical path requirements. Leadership and Mentorship Serve as a subject matter expert for program managers on control processes, compliance, EVM, and financial management. Train and mentor PMO and program staff on PMO standards and tools. Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). Minimum of 8 years of experience in PMO, program management, or finance/controller roles, with at least 5 years in the Defense or Aerospace industry. PMP, PgMP, EVM certification, or relevant financial credentials preferred. Demonstrated experience with Earned Value Management on major government programs. Strong understanding of government contracting requirements. Advanced proficiency with project management tools such as Microsoft Project or Primavera. Expert-level skills in Microsoft Excel and financial modeling. Experience with Power BI or similar analytics tools, and major ERP systems. Proven ability to influence and drive results within matrixed and cross-functional teams. Strong analytical skills, business acumen, and ability to assess key business metrics at an enterprise level. Preferred Traits Excellent communication and executive presentation skills. Strong organizational and governance capabilities. High attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy. Ability to navigate and influence within a complex, matrixed environment. Additional Information Travel up to 50 percent. Position requires eligibility for access to sensitive U.S. government information (NOFORN). Proof of U.S. citizenship is required. Dual citizenship is not permitted. Seniority level Associate Employment type Full-time Job function Finance Defense and Space Manufacturing and Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr Lincoln Group