What Does a Project Control Specialist Do?

The Project Control Specialist plays an integral role in ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards by monitoring and reporting on project progress. This position involves close collaboration with project managers and other team members to gather, analyze, and communicate project information. By developing detailed project schedules, budget forecasts, and risk management plans, the specialist supports the effective planning and execution of projects. Their expertise in project control tools and methodologies enables them to provide insights and recommendations that help in making informed decisions, ensuring the smooth progression of projects from initiation to completion. Through their efforts, the Project Control Specialist ensures that project objectives are met, while also identifying any areas of improvement for future endeavors.

Project Control Specialist Job Duties

• Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules, including all critical path activities and dependencies between tasks.
• Prepare, analyze, and present cost forecasts and budget reports to ensure projects remain within financial guidelines.
• Implement and oversee project control mechanisms such as change management processes, to manage project scope, schedule, and costs effectively.
• Facilitate risk management activities, identifying potential project risks and developing mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate with project managers and other team members to ensure accurate and timely reporting of project status and performance metrics.
• Establish and maintain project documentation and records, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Perform quality control audits to ensure project outputs meet the required standards and stakeholder expectations.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with vendors, subcontractors, and other external parties to secure the necessary resources and services for project execution.

Project Control Specialist Salary & Outlook

Factors influencing a Project Control Specialist’s salary include industry experience, complexity of projects managed, proficiency in project management software, and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Specialized skills in budgeting, forecasting, and risk management also significantly impact earnings. Leadership experience and a track record of successful project delivery can further elevate salary potential.

• Median Annual Salary: $83,475 ($40.13/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $141,000 ($67.79/hour)

The employment of project control specialists is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increasing complexity in project management, a higher demand for cost efficiency, and the need for risk mitigation in projects across industries. Project Control Specialists are pivotal in ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget, making their skills more sought after than ever.

Project Control Specialist Job Requirements

Education: A Project Control Specialist typically holds a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in fields such as Business Administration, Engineering, Project Management, or Finance. Relevant coursework includes project management principles, cost estimation, risk management, and financial analysis. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in project management software, and a solid foundation in mathematics are essential. Advanced degrees may focus on strategic planning, leadership, and specialized project control methodologies to enhance career prospects and expertise in managing complex projects.

Experience: Project Control Specialists typically come with a background rich in practical experience, often having spent significant time in roles that hone their expertise in project management, cost control, scheduling, and risk analysis. On-the-job training plays a crucial role, allowing them to adapt to specific industry standards and software tools. Many have also participated in formal training programs or workshops that focus on project control methodologies, enhancing their ability to oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively. Their experience is usually diverse, covering various projects, which equips them with the adaptability and problem-solving skills essential for the role.

Certifications & Licenses: Certifications beneficial for a Project Control Specialist include Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Cost Professional (CCP), and Earned Value Professional (EVP). No specific licenses are typically required for this role.

Project Control Specialist Skills

Cost Estimation: Project Control Specialists are tasked with predicting the financial resources necessary for project completion. They develop detailed budgets and manage funds efficiently throughout the project lifecycle by analyzing historical data, understanding market trends, and collaborating with project teams to ensure financial forecasts are precise and aligned with project goals.

Schedule Development: Specialists in project control create detailed timelines that align project objectives with available resources and deadlines. They plan meticulously and make adjustments to accommodate unforeseen changes, maintaining the project’s momentum and ensuring its timely completion.

Risk Management: The identification of potential project pitfalls and the development of strategies to mitigate them are critical responsibilities. Project Control Specialists use analytical tools and techniques to assess risks, ensuring that project timelines, budgets, and quality standards are safeguarded.

Quality Assurance: Coordinating with team members and stakeholders, Project Control Specialists implement quality control processes throughout the project lifecycle. They conduct regular audits, identify discrepancies or areas for improvement, and initiate corrective actions to ensure project deliverables meet established standards of quality.

Change Management: Specialists manage alterations to project scope, timelines, and resources to keep projects on track and within budget. Their meticulous attention to detail and ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders mitigate risks associated with changes, ensuring project objectives are achieved with minimal disruption.

Stakeholder Communication: Project Control Specialists translate complex project data into understandable insights and updates, keeping all parties aligned and informed. Their skill in managing expectations, fostering collaboration, and mitigating risks keeps stakeholders engaged and responsive to project needs and changes.

Project Control Specialist Work Environment

A Project Control Specialist typically operates in a dynamic office setting, where the layout is designed to foster both concentration and collaboration. The workspace is equipped with advanced software tools for project management, scheduling, and budget tracking, reflecting the high reliance on technology in daily tasks. Work hours might extend beyond the typical 9-to-5, especially as project deadlines approach, though there’s often flexibility to accommodate personal commitments.

The dress code leans towards business casual, mirroring a professional yet approachable office culture. Interaction with team members and stakeholders is frequent, necessitating strong communication skills. The environment encourages continuous learning, with opportunities for professional development through workshops and training sessions.

Health and safety protocols are in place, ensuring a well-maintained and secure work environment. While the job may require occasional travel, it primarily remains office-bound, with the pace of work varying according to project life cycles. This role offers a balanced blend of independent tasks and team collaboration, making it suited for those who thrive in a structured yet adaptable setting.

Advancement Prospects

A Project Control Specialist can ascend to senior roles within project management, such as a Senior Project Controller or Project Control Manager, by demonstrating exceptional proficiency in cost control, scheduling, and risk management. Mastery in utilizing project management software and tools is crucial for advancement.

Gaining experience in diverse industries enhances versatility and opportunities for leadership positions. Specialists aiming for higher roles should focus on developing strategic planning and decision-making skills.

Leading complex, high-value projects successfully positions a Project Control Specialist for roles like Director of Project Management. This requires a deep understanding of business operations and the ability to align project outcomes with organizational goals.