Project Controls Specialist

About this opportunity

We are seeking a skilled Project Controls Specialist to support the planning, monitoring, and performance management of complex projects based out of our Naperville, IL office. This role is essential for ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget by providing high-quality schedule, cost, and reporting expertise.

• Develop, maintain, and update detailed project schedules using industry-standard tools (e.g., Primavera P6 or MS Project).
• Perform schedule analysis, critical path reviews, progress measurement, and forecasting.
• Work closely with project managers and technical teams to validate schedule logic and milestones.

• Support the creation of project budgets, baselines, and cost forecasts.
• Track actual costs, analyse variances, and provide early warnings on potential issues.
• Prepare cost reports, cash flow analysis, and earned value management (EVM) updates.

• Produce regular project performance reports, dashboards, and KPIs for internal and external stakeholders.
• Support monthly reporting cycles, project reviews, and governance processes.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and ensure compliance with internal standards.

• Assist with identifying, tracking, and reporting project risks and opportunities.
• Support change control processes, including impact assessments on schedule and cost.
• Collaborate with teams to implement mitigation strategies and improve project predictability.

• Work closely with project managers, engineers, procurement, finance, and contractors.
• Facilitate data-driven decision-making through clear communication and analytical insights.
• Build strong working relationships to ensure consistency and transparency across the project.

• 3–7 years of experience in project controls, scheduling, or cost management.
• Proficiency in scheduling and cost tools (e.g., P6, MS Project, Excel, cost management systems).
• Understanding of earned value management, forecasting techniques, and schedule analysis.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Experience in industries such as energy, utilities, infrastructure, engineering, or nuclear (optional but beneficial).

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Project Management, Construction Management, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).

A world of opportunity

Gleeds is a place to be part of something bigger. We take pride in our diverse and supportive culture that empowers you to make a difference while creating connections with brilliant people – colleagues and clients alike. Enjoy doing work that shapes our collective future, while steering your own journey in a trusting environment. Benefit from our rich heritage and global opportunities as you construct a career with purpose.

With over 75 offices across the globe, you’ll become part of a truly global team that isn’t restricted by borders. We welcome new perspectives and ideas but above all, we believe that quality relationships sit at the heart of good business. We strive to be the people that seek to understand and bring people together. Wherever we are in the world, we’re committed to the success of our people, clients and communities – giving everyone a safer and more sustainable place to live, work and thrive.

Our values underpin what we stand for and how we work:

• Professionalism with personality
• Excellence with humility
• Innovation with agility

We’re an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications regardless of age, disability, marital status, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, transgender status or gender.

We recognise the importance of work/life balance and agree flexible working arrangements to suit each individual.