• Senior Cost Analyst

    Robert Half Management Resources (Palo, IA)


    Description

    We are seeking a Senior Cost Analyst with direct construction cost management experience to support large-scale utility construction and maintenance projects. This role is responsible for project cost tracking, forecasting, budgeting, variance analysis, and financial reporting across a portfolio of capital projects.

     

    The right candidate will have hands-on experience partnering with project managers, construction supervisors, engineering, and field operations to ensure project costs remain aligned with scope, schedule, and budget.

     

    This is a highly visible, fast-paced, and cross-functional role requiring accuracy, proactivity, and strong business acumen.

    Key Responsibilities

    Construction Cost Management

     

    + Manage full lifecycle cost tracking for construction and maintenance capital projects.

    + Monitor project budgets, actuals, commitments, accruals, and change orders.

    + Maintain detailed job costing and cost performance reporting at the project, component, and work order levels.

    + Work closely with engineering, construction, and field leadership to validate labor, material, contractor, and equipment costs.

     

    Forecasting & Variance Analysis

     

    + Prepare monthly and quarterly forecasts, including spend projections, risk adjustments, and completion estimates.

    + Analyze budget-to-actual variance drivers and provide insights to project managers and leadership.

    + Support development of annual capital budgets and long-range project cost plans.

    + Identify cost risks and opportunities early and recommend corrective action.

     

    Financial Reporting & Compliance

     

    + Prepare and deliver project cost reports, dashboards, and financial summaries to PMO, finance, and construction leaders.

    + Ensure alignment with GAAP, internal policies, capital project accounting rules, and audit requirements.

    + Support month-end close, cost accruals, journal entries, and project reconciliations.

     

    Cross-Functional Partnership

     

    + Work directly with Construction Managers, Project Engineers, Field Supervisors, Finance, Supply Chain, and Accounting.

    + Participate in construction planning, project review meetings, and scope change evaluations.

    + Validate contractor invoices and provide financial insight during project negotiations.

     

    Systems & Tools

     

    + Utilize enterprise systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, FMIS, Passport, Maximo, or construction/utility project systems).

    + Build and maintain cost dashboards using Excel, Power BI, or similar tools.

    + Ensure accuracy of cost data within ERP and project management systems.

    Requirements

    Qualifications

    + Experience in utility construction, energy infrastructure, electrical/mechanical projects, or industrial construction.

    + Knowledge of capital project accounting standards and regulatory reporting.

    + Strong process improvement mindset and ability to streamline cost workflows.

    + Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Construction Management, or related field.

    Preferred Qualifications

    + Hands-on experience supporting real construction projects, not just manufacturing or corporate FP& A.

    + A background partnering with project managers and construction leadership.

    + A track record of delivering accurate job cost forecasting, identifying overruns, and improving cost visibility.

    + Strong command of data within SAP/Oracle/ERP and a proactive approach to cost management.

     

    Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

     

    Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

     

    All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

     

    • 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) .