Project Controls Specialist

Company Overview:

Total-Western, Inc., founded in 1972, is a premier provider of industrial construction and maintenance services across sectors like oil and gas, aerospace, petrochemical, food & beverage, and renewable energy. Committed to safety, quality, and operational excellence, we deliver a full range of services, including engineering, procurement, construction, operations, and maintenance (EPCOM). Our core competencies include ASME code welding, mechanical and civil construction, and electrical & instrumentation services.

With offices throughout California, the Pacific Northwest, and Arizona, Total-Western provides high-quality, cost-effective solutions across the Western U.S. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture of safety and innovation, enabling our clients to meet complex operational challenges while driving sustainable success.

Position Overview:

The Project Controls Specialist is a critical member of the Total-Western project management team, providing essential support in planning, budgeting, scheduling, and project performance tracking to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. This role will be responsible for establishing robust controls, maintaining project schedules, and ensuring that cost and scheduling data align with overall project objectives. The Project Controls Specialist will directly contribute to Total-Western’s commitment to excellence by ensuring projects are managed with accuracy and transparency, supporting both project teams and client expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cost Management and Budgeting: Develop and maintain detailed project cost estimates, budgets, and forecasts, tracking actual expenses against budgeted amounts to ensure cost control.
• Scheduling: Create and manage project schedules using tools such as Primavera P6 or MS Project, ensuring that timelines are realistic, achievable, and in line with client expectations.
• Progress Tracking: Monitor and report on project progress, identifying variances and implementing corrective actions to keep projects on track.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Compile, analyze, and report on project performance metrics, creating regular dashboards for project managers and clients to communicate budget and schedule status.
• Risk Management: Identify project risks and coordinate mitigation strategies to address potential issues before they impact the project’s success.
• Documentation and Process Management: Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including change orders, RFIs, and submittals, ensuring accuracy and easy access for project teams.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in process improvement initiatives by providing data-driven insights and feedback to enhance project efficiency and control measures.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in project controls, scheduling, or cost management in industrial construction or EPCOM projects.
• Proficiency in scheduling and project control software such as Primavera P6, MS Project, or similar tools.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills.
• Commitment to teamwork, accuracy, and client-focused service, aligning with Total-Western’s values of safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Preferred Experience:

• Prior experience in the oil and gas, aerospace, or renewable energy industries.
• Familiarity with Total-Western’s core services and industry standards in EPCOM.
• Certifications such as AACE’s Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP).
• Advanced skills in data analysis software such as Excel, Power BI, or Tableau.

Work Environment:

• Office-based with occasional travel to project sites across the Western U.S.
• Involves regular collaboration with field teams, project managers, and clients to ensure data accuracy and project alignment.
• Adherence to company safety protocols is required when visiting industrial project sites.

Reporting Structure:

The Project Controls Specialist reports directly to the Project Controls Manager and collaborates with project managers, financial analysts, and field supervisors to ensure comprehensive project oversight and control.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary Range: $70,000 - $90,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
• Total-Western’s comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and opportunities for ongoing training and development.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO):

Total-Western, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.