Bird Construction

Project Controls - Cost Specialist

Edmonton, AB Full time
Project Controls - Cost Specialist

In support of upcoming projects, Bird Construction is reaching out to market to identify candidates interested in the Project Controls - Cost Specialist position. Potential start date of May/June 2026.

Reporting to the Project Controls Manager, the Cost Specialist provides comprehensive cost management services for assigned projects. The role focuses on setting up and maintaining cost control systems, monitoring project expenditures, and ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting. Collaboration with project teams, finance, and other stakeholders is essential to drive effective decision-making and achieve project success. Additional areas may include schedule, risk, lessons learned and change management.

This successful candidate must be open to working in fast paced, challenging project environments where remote and shift work with irregular hours will be required.

What You Will Be Working On

  • Set up and manage cost control structures, including Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and Cost Breakdown Structures (CBS).

  • Responsible for monitoring cost parameters established for the job that aligns with the cost deliverables by Client.

  • Perform data integrity audits on cost coding, committed costs, and actual costs.

  • Contribute to cost trend analysis and identify corrective actions for variances.

  • Prepare and deliver financial reports, including Earned Value Management (EVM) metrics such as CPI and SPI.

  • Assist and coordinates with Project Controls Coordinators on daily LEM preparation and verifications.

  • Support the preparation of monthly invoices, cost accruals, and forecasting efforts.

  • Collaborate with project team to manage change control processes and validate budget adjustments.

  • Analyze material purchase orders and subcontract costs, ensuring alignment with budget allocations.

  • Assists Project Controls Manager on all other deliverables.

  • Train and mentor junior team members on cost control processes and tools.

  • Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including field teams, clients, and vendors, to ensure alignment on cost expectations and reporting.

  • Ensure compliance with financial procedures and company standards.

What We Are Looking For

  • Certified cost professional through AACE (Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering) or working towards certification, or supporting diploma or degree, or combination of education and related experience is an asset.

  • 3-8 years of relevant experience in cost control, project controls, or a similar role.

  • Proficiency in cost control tools and software. Experience with InEight Software is an asset.

  • Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables and advanced formulas.

  • Exposure to advanced reporting and visualization tools like Power BI.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience in cost analysis and forecasting.

  • Familiarity with Earned Value Management (EVM) principles.

  • Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.

  • Excellent communication skills for report preparation and stakeholder engagement.

  • Comfortable working in site-based environments and interacting with field teams and clients.

  • Willingness to work irregular hours as needed to meet project deadlines.

  • Flexibility and mobility to work across various project locations.

For Those Who Seek to Redefine

The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird.

As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving - we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

What We Believe In

We Put Safety First

A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty

We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together

Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work

We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity

Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

At Bird, we value Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) and believe it is essential to our success. We will continue to listen, learn, and take action in our commitment to building progress in our organization, and the industry as a whole. Cultivating an environment where all employees feel included, seen, and have a sense of belonging is core to Bird’s culture. We commit to proactively employing a workforce that reflects the communities in which we work, fostering an environment of continuous learning, and never compromising on our values.