Project Controls Manager: Role Overview, Responsibilities & 2025 Salary Data
Project Controls Managers oversee all aspects of project planning, scheduling, cost control, and reporting. They establish project control systems, analyze performance metrics, forecast outcomes, and provide data-driven insights that enable effective project decision-making and risk management.
What Does a Project Controls Manager Do?
Project Controls Managers oversee all aspects of project planning, scheduling, cost control, and reporting. They establish project control systems, analyze performance metrics, forecast outcomes, and provide data-driven insights that enable effective project decision-making and risk management.
What Does a Project Controls Manager Responsible For?
- Establish and maintain project controls systems and procedures
- Oversee project scheduling, cost management, and reporting
- Manage project controls team (schedulers, cost engineers)
- Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs)
- Conduct earned value analysis and variance reporting
- Prepare executive dashboards and project forecasts
- Support change management and claims analysis
- Coordinate with project management and finance teams
Project Controls Manager Qualifications & Requirements
Technical Skills
- •8-15 years of project controls experience
- •Expert proficiency in Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, and cost management software
- •Strong understanding of earned value management (EVM)
- •Advanced Excel and data analysis skills
- •Knowledge of project management methodologies
- •Experience with multiple project delivery methods
Professional Competencies
- •Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- •Excellent communication and presentation skills
- •Leadership and team management
- •Strategic thinking
- •Ability to influence without direct authority
Education & Certifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred
Certifications:
PMP, PSP, CCP, or EVP certifications highly preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- +10+ years of project controls experience
- +Experience with large capital projects ($50M+)
- +Claims analysis and litigation support experience
Project Controls Manager Market Outlook
Senior Controls and PMO Leadership
Project Controls Managers can advance to Director of Project Controls, PMO Director, or VP of Project Management roles.
Typical Career Progression:
Project Controls Manager Salary Ranges (2025)
$110,000 - $150,000
Mid Level: $110,000 - $135,000
Senior Level: $135,000 - $170,000
Salaries vary by experience, location, company size, and specialization.
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