Project Controls Engineer - Underground Transmission

Job DescriptionJob Description

Job Posting: Project Controls Engineer – Cost (7+ YOE) – Underground Transmission

Location: New Jersey (Various office locations – On-site in South Plainfield as needed)
Position Type: Full-Time (Hybrid – 3 days in the office)

About Us

CARIAN is a purpose-driven, certified woman-owned consulting and advisory firm serving the power and utilities sector. We partner with leading electric and gas utilities to deliver capital programs, enhance operations, and solve complex challenges with deep industry expertise.

Position Overview

CARIAN is seeking a Project Controls Engineer – Cost to support a portfolio of underground transmission infrastructure projects for a major utility client. This PCE will serve as the lead cost engineer across multiple active projects and will work closely with field teams, project managers, and the project controls organization to ensure consistent cost forecasting, analysis, and reporting.

This position supports a team based in South Plainfield, NJ, and the selected candidate must be available to work on-site as needed. The role may also support additional capital projects as business needs evolve.

Responsibilities

• Lead cost control activities across the portfolio, including forecasting and cash flow management

• Manage project accruals and ensure timely, accurate reporting

• Analyze and explain cost variances at both summary and detailed levels

• Develop project-level business plans and support annual budget planning cycles

• Identify and communicate financial risks across projects and forecast periods

• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, planners, and client stakeholders

• Present cost performance data and reporting in a clear, consistent format

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of experience in project controls, with a strong focus on cost management

• Experience supporting complex capital projects, preferably in utilities, infrastructure, or energy

• Proficient in SAP or similar project financial systems

• Familiarity with Primavera P6 or similar scheduling platforms

• Strong Excel skills and attention to detail in cost reporting and forecasting

• Experience in both field and office-based project environments is

• Excellent communication and stakeholder coordination skills

• Must be willing to travel to or work from South Plainfield, NJ as needed

Why CARIAN?

• Purpose-driven work – Support infrastructure projects that power communities and reduce risk

• Industry reputation – Trusted by top utilities for delivery, depth, and dependability

• Career growth – Opportunities to expand your impact and grow within the project controls space

• Collaborative culture – Work with experienced, supportive, and sharp professionals

• Competitive total rewards – Competitive salary, full benefits, 401(k) match, and performance recognition

CARIAN takes pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of , , , , , , , citizenship, expression or , status as a veteran, and basis of or any other federal, state, or local legally protected class. 

As a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, CARIAN is committed to providing employment opportunities to women, veterans, and underrepresented minorities.