Lead Cost Controller

At Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) we are leading the global energy transition by developing a portfolio of renewable energy and green hydrogen projects. Our large scale, low-cost hydropower, geothermal, solar and wind assets will support establishment of green energy and green product industries around the world. FFI is committed to building thriving communities by delivering social, environmental, and economic benefits.

< Lead Cost Controller >

Work location: Houston 

Roster: Monday to Friday

Overview: 

At Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) we are leading the global energy transition by developing a portfolio of renewable energy and green hydrogen projects.

Our large scale, low-cost hydropower, geothermal, solar and wind assets will support establishment of green energy and green product industries around the world.

FFI is committed to building thriving communities by delivering social, environmental and economic benefits. 

Reporting to the Principal Project Controls, the Lead Cost Engineer requires knowledge and experience across cost control, project controls, commercial and construction activities.

The role is responsible for the implementation of the cost management system and processes, leadership and development of cost control team and the provision of budget, invoice and cost forecasting services and support.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop, implement and utilise the cost management systems, processes and procedures to ensure a consistent approach to project cost control, budget tracking, forecasting, cashflow and performance analysis
• Management of the project cost and progress reporting process in order to provide consistent, accurate and timely reporting to the project management team including identification of any required actions to maintain approved baseline targets
• Coordination of the change management process including evaluation of all impacts, including but not limited to cost, schedule, risk and product production
• Leadership, mentoring, support and development of cost controllers in the team
• Coordination of cost aspects within the broader project controls team ensuring alignment and collaboration with the other functions
• Ownership, oversight and hands-on participation with key cost control functions including:
  • Definition and application of the project Work Breakdown Structure to ensure all systems, processes and reporting reflect the standard approach on the projects
• Support contracting and procurement team with project contracts, purchase orders, project payment certificates review, and set up in the various project controls and finance systems
  • Project month end processing included accruals submission, system updates, WBS coding of cost items, and reporting
  • Forecast cost to complete, highlight areas of risk and solutions to mitigate cost impacts
  • Support quarterly capital planning process
  • Manage progress & performance measurement by applying earned value management (EVM) tools and techniques to interpret data and provide timely insight and recommendations to improve project performance
  • Evaluate Contractor’s progress payment claims and reconcile with budgets and contracts
  • Monitor and audit cost management system and SAP to ensure accuracy between the two systems and escalate to management any significant variances
  • Establish positive working relationships with all parties involved and upholding Fortescue’s values

Experience and skills required:

• Prior experience in a similar role preferably in the resources and renewable energy sector and complex construction and engineering environments.
• At least 10 years project controls experience at Lead and/or Senior level, preferably including international elements or interfaces
• Demonstrated experience establishing, managing and reporting the cost components of large-scale, complex capital projects, including developing and managing a progress reporting methodology
• Experience leading, managing and developing cost control teams 
• Sound understanding of project control processes and techniques including methods for transitioning from study estimate to project budget, project cost and cash flow forecasting and analysis.
• Exposure to full project life cycles, from concept through to execution, and the associated gate movements
• Demonstrated proficiency and knowledge regarding project cost control systems, finance systems and reporting applications, their database management and administration
• Strong communication skills, ability to interface with project and corporate stakeholders
• Experience and proficiency with Omega PIMS cost system or similar project management systems
• High level of computer skill with advanced Microsoft Excel, Word and MS Office package abilities

Qualifications required: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, or equivalent experience
• 10+ years of related project/program experience
• Project management or an internationally accredited project controls certification

Candidates must be able to bring a flexible mindset, challenge traditional thinking, and be prepared to work outside of their comfort zone.

Our values drive our culture and performance through a strong focus on safety, family and determination. Fortescue is deeply committed to providing a safe culture that builds respect, fosters inclusiveness, and values diversity. We celebrate individual strengths and team members from all backgrounds are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. Our global workforce drives and promotes an inclusive culture, both within our organisation and throughout the communities we interact with across the world. Candidates will be subject to company Fit for Work Policy which includes Drug and Alcohol Testing. 

We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

www.fmgl.com.au/jobs-at-fortescue

Fortescue reserves the right to close applications early should a suitable pool of candidates be identified

Fortescue will never contact you to ask for payment of any kind, whether directly or through a third party.