Principal Project Controls Specialist (Estimating)

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Principal Project Controls Specialists (PPCS) provide day-to-day analysis and evaluation of data associated with portfolios, programs and projects. PPCSs serve as a role model and expert practitioner in project controls (cost, contract, WBS, schedule, resource, etc.). PPCS perform complex aspects of individual project estimating, scheduling, change documentation and cost control while communicating program or portfolio status.

This position is expected to be a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with an expert knowledge and understating of project controls processes both in cost and schedule, advanced ECOSYS (management, programing, system integration) data analytics, workflow integration, project set-up based on type and requirements. This position is also expected to develop (as needed), enhance and maintain COST BOT that integrates with EcoSys as well as other cost tools.

PPCSs provide mature technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) support where demonstration comes from extensive and diverse work experience and/or formal education. PPCSs apply advanced project controls principles to establish and maintain rigorous performance standards. As team leader, PPCS demonstrate advanced levels of application, analysis and evaluation of data. PPCSs are essential to 1) day-to-day coaching and mentoring of Project Control colleagues, 2) training and associate development in project and project controls aspects, 3) oversight of unit process and procedures, 4) understanding and application of complex project controls principles, and 5) continuous improvement and development of Project Controls systems for communicating forecasts and trends. PPCSs assure project control data collection tools, analysis, communication and reporting systems are accurate and functioning according to Enterprise policies (e.g. Financial, Risk, Supply Chain, etc) and Project Management Center of Excellence (PMCoE) requirements. The PPCS position may lead assigned PC teams in absence of the Supervisor or Manager of Project Controls. PPCSs support multiple management and project teams of varying size and complexity simultaneously. PPCS will lead or direct communication for portfolio, program and project reviews. PPCSs is a proficient expert with computer applications for analytics related to schedule, cost, and risk. PPCSs support communication of project, program and portfolio performance including interpretation of trends and forecasts. PPCSs contribute to analysis and results of project cost, forecasts, contracts, schedules, resources etc. This position is critical to the mentoring the Project Controls and Project Management teams.

Progression to this level is restricted on the basis of business need.

Responsibilities

• Experience with material take-off and or assessments. Travel to site to assess tie-in, existing infrastructure, specific site conditions etc. into estimates

• Lead the preparation of comprehensive cost estimates for projects at all stages, from concept through execution.

• Break down projects into work packages and assign costs to labor, materials, equipment, and indirect expenses.

• Coordinate with engineering, construction, procurement, and other departments to obtain necessary data for accurate estimates.

• Utilize industry-standard methodologies, tools, and databases to ensure precision and consistency in cost forecasts.

• Review historical data and apply benchmarking to validate estimate assumptions and outputs.

• Account for contingencies, escalation, and potential risks within the estimate structure.

• Present estimate methodologies, results, and recommendations to project management and leadership.

• Facilitate estimate reviews and challenge sessions with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure robust cost estimate and basis.

• Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and transparent reports and presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Act as the primary point of contact for estimation.

• Assess, validate, and challenge cost estimates submitted by contractors, consultants, and suppliers.

• Benchmark third-party estimates against internal data and market trends.

• Engage in value engineering exercises to optimize project scope and reduce unnecessary costs.

• Ensure all contractual obligations related to cost estimation and reporting are met by external parties.

• Champion the adoption and continuous improvement of cost estimation tools, databases, and best practices.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry standards, technological advancements, and emerging trends in project controls and cost estimation.

• Train and mentor junior estimators and project control staff, sharing knowledge and fostering professional development.

• Lead initiatives to enhance estimation accuracy, efficiency, and data integration across the organization.

• Provide cost input for procurement strategies, contract negotiations, and bid evaluations.

• Prepare cost assessments and pricing structures for bid evaluation.

• Assist in negotiations with vendors and subcontractors regarding pricing and scope changes.

• Assess the cost impact of project changes, claims, and variations.

• Prepare and evaluate cost estimates for proposed modifications and assess their impact on overall project budget and schedule. Provide data to Site Lead.

• Support dispute resolution and claims analysis with detailed cost data and rationale.

• Ensure all estimating outputs comply with procedural requirements.

• Participate in internal and external audits of cost estimates and processes.

• Identify and implement corrective actions in response to audit findings or process deficiencies.

• Lead post-project reviews and lessons learned sessions to capture estimation successes and areas for improvement.

• Update cost databases, benchmarks, and tools based on project outcomes and industry developments.

• Provide strategic advice and guidance to senior management on project cost and control matters.

• Contribute to resource planning, recruitment, and team leadership as required.

Required/Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Engineering, Project management or other related degree

• 6 plus years related work experience

• In lieu of Bachelor's degree(s) AND 6 plus year(s) related work experience listed above, High School/GED AND 10 plus year(s) related work experience

Desired Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration

• In addition to desired degree, 20 years related work experience

• Project Management Professional

Additional Preferred Qualifications

• Software such as MS Project/MS Office Suite, Primavera, Business Objects, Passport, Powerplant, Emax, Peoplesoft

• Risk management tools / Monte Carlo analysis

• Expertise with project management / project controls concepts / computer applications / analytics

• Employee development

• Strong collaborative team member

• Oversight

Working Conditions

• Hybrid Mobility Classification - Work will be performed from both remote and onsite locations after the onboarding period. However, hybrid employees should live within a reasonable daily commute to a Duke Energy facility.

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• ECOSYS set-up, administration and maintenance. COST BOT development, maintenance and updates.

• Set-up code structure and projects based on requirements. Set-up WBS/ cost codes, convert estimates to budget, pull in commitments and to set base forecast. Routine upgrades, maintenance and system assessments as needed.

• Software such as MS Project/MS Office Suite, Primavera, Business Objects, Passport, Powerplant, Emax, Peoplesoft

• Risk management tools / Monte Carlo analysis

• Expertise with project management / project controls concepts / computer applications / analytics

• Employee development

• Strong collaborative team member

• Oversight

Travel Requirements

Posting Expiration Date

All job postings expire at 12:01 AM on the posting expiration date.

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