Senior Project/Program Controls Manager

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Project/Program Controls Manager to lead project controls functions for large, complex capital construction programs. This role is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive controls processes across cost, schedule, risk, and reporting to ensure clear project transparency, accurate forecasting, and informed decision-making at the executive level.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned project controls professional with deep experience in complex capital construction environments and a proven track record of success as a third‑party owner's representative. Experience in highly technical industries-including advanced manufacturing (automation), aerospace, and defense technology-is a major plus.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all project controls functions across cost management, scheduling, risk analysis, change management, and reporting.
• Serve as the owner's representative for project controls, ensuring alignment between internal stakeholders, contractors, and design partners.
• Develop and maintain integrated master schedules for multi-phase capital programs.
• Build, manage, and analyze project cost models, budgets, forecasts, cash flow projections, and variance reports.
• Establish project controls governance, standards, and best practices for consistency across the program.
• Prepare and deliver executive-level dashboards and presentations summarizing performance, trends, risks, and recommended mitigation strategies.
• Lead risk management processes, including risk registers and qualitative/quantitative analysis.
• Support contract administration, change order review, and claims analysis.
• Mentor junior project controls staff and promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in project or program controls for complex capital construction programs.
• Mandatory: Proven experience working as a third‑party owner's representative.
• Strong proficiency in project controls tools and platforms (e.g., Primavera P6, cost management systems, reporting dashboards).
• Experience in one or more of the following highly technical industries is a major plus:
  • Advanced manufacturing, especially automation-heavy facilities
  • Aerospace
  • Defense technology
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and provide high-quality executive reporting.
• Local candidates strongly preferred (Irvine or surrounding Southern California areas).

Compensation & Benefits

Our client offers a competitive compensation package, including:

• Full insurance benefits (health, dental, vision) paid 100% by the employer
• 10-20% annual bonus
• 401(k) match up to $150,000 base salary
• $700/month equipment allowance
• 2 weeks PTO
• 16 paid holidays