SJI Industries

Senior Cost & Contract Management Specialist

Remote - NJ Full time

About Us

South Jersey Industries (SJI) is an energy holding company that delivers clean energy services to 700,000+ customers and businesses throughout 14 counties in New Jersey. As part of our core values, SJI is dedicated to being a community partner and developing innovative clean energy solutions to meet the needs of the future. To do this, we depend on our workforce of over 1,100+ talented, diverse employees who help us deliver safe, reliable, affordable clean energy for a better today and tomorrow.

At SJI, we believe that our employees are our most valuable asset. Whether you’re a seasoned operations technician or an early-career legal professional, our culture, inclusive workforce, and  leadership development and training programs will provide you with the tools you need to either kickstart your career or bring it to new heights.

Position Summary

The position plays a critical role in ensuring financial discipline and contractual integrity across projects at SJI Renewable Energy Ventures, LLC (“SJI REV”). The role is responsible for overseeing project cost control, contract administration, and financial compliance throughout the project lifecycle. The position ensures that budgets, procurement processes, and contractual obligations are effectively managed to support project objectives while minimizing financial and contractual risks. The specialist collaborates with project managers, procurement teams, and vendors to monitor costs, review contract terms, manage variations and ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

Essential Functions:

  • Administer the full lifecycle of contracts to ensure alignment with organizational standards and compliance with legal requirements
  • Manage month-end accrual processes ensuring expenses are recorded in the period incurred
  • Review, approve, and process purchase orders and/or supplier invoices, comparing against contractual terms to ensure accurate billing, identifying discrepancies, and controlling costs
  • Maintain, track, and report on project and/or cost center budgets, analyzing variances and providing actionable insights for cost-saving measures
  • Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes by providing operational cost analysis and performance trend insights
  • Develop and implement standardized business process workflows, templates, and tools to ensure cost control, compliance, and consistency across the SJI REV organization
  • Conduct regular vendor meetings to review expected and actual invoiced costs; periodically evaluate vendor performance against Service Level Agreements and ensure compliance with contract terms
  • Perform deep dives into vendor proposals, analyze cost breakdowns, standardize vendor submission and invoice validation processes
  • Review financial statements monthly to identify performance drivers and recommend corrective actions that drive P&L and B/S accountability

Required Skills:

  • Advanced knowledge of ERP systems (i.e., Workday) and project management software (i.e., Procore)
  • Advanced MS Excel skills for data analysis and financial reporting
  • Strong understanding of GAAP requirements
  • Superior analytical, organizational, and communication (written/verbal) skills
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and work well under pressure with appropriate attention to detail
  • Robust contract management skills including risk mitigation, compliance, and financial acumen
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in dynamic environment
  • Strong collaboration skills to work with internal and external stakeholders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Construction Management, or a business-related field
  • 5+ years of experience in cost management, project controls, or contract administration
  • Or, Master's degree and 3 years in cost management, project controls, or contract administration
  • Equivelent experience may be considered in lieu of degree

Explore the Possibilities

    South Jersey Industries employs a diverse range of talent – from construction contractors to environmental specialists. Regardless of the position, mentoring and networking, hands-on experience, gaining industry knowledge and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our business and in our communities are all exciting ways that we welcome our employees at SJI. And as a company committed to creating an engaging culture built on inclusion and diversity, you’re sure to find an opportunity that makes you feel included, empowered, and ready to “bring your whole self to work” every day.

    Benefits Package Overview

    SJI offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees.

    The SJI “Total Rewards” Benefits Package include:

    • Flexible vacation, Paid Time Off, and Sick Leave package
    • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance
    • 401(k), with generous company match
    • Employee Resource Groups to encourage employee engagement, nurture professional development, and foster an inclusive environment.

    Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

    At this time, SJI is only considering applicants authorized to work in the United States currently and in the future without the need for visa sponsorship.

    Compensation Range:

    $84,375 - 135,000

    We are committed to pay transparency and ensuring equitability compensation for all employees. The pay range for this position reflects the base salary only and does not include benefits, bonuses, or other forms of compensation that might be part of the total compensation package. The specific salary offered will be based on a candidate’s qualifications, education, and experience.