Principal Project Controls Estimator -(Nuclear)

Charlotte, NC

Onsite - 5 days/week

Per Diem may be offered

Full-Time, Direct-Hire

JOB SUMMARY:
The Principal Project Controls Specialist/Planner (Estimator) is responsible for leading complex cost estimating, forecasting, and financial analysis activities for large-scale, high-risk nuclear construction projects. This role operates at an expert level within project controls, ensuring alignment between cost, schedule, and scope while supporting program and portfolio-level reporting. The Estimator also plays a key role in developing reporting systems, driving cost control strategies, and mentoring junior team members within the project controls organization.

Key performance objectives are:
• Develop accurate and detailed cost estimates across all project phases.
• Ensure alignment between cost, schedule, and project scope.
• Perform advanced cost analysis, forecasting, and variance tracking.
• Support cost reporting, estimate reviews, and leadership presentations.
• Lead and mentor project controls and estimating team members.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed represent the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Other duties may be assigned.

Develop and review detailed cost estimates across engineering, procurement, and construction scopes.
Prepare conceptual, parametric, and definitive estimates throughout the project lifecycle.
Review and validate quantity take-offs and perform cost normalization and benchmarking analysis.
Conduct cost forecasting, variance analysis, trending, and burn rate evaluations.
Support cost alignment with project schedules and assist with change management processes.
Collaborate with project controls, engineering, and construction teams to ensure estimate accuracy and consistency.
Support estimate reviews, reporting, and presentations for project stakeholders and leadership.
Analyze cost drivers, risks, and contingency requirements to support project execution.
Work with large datasets and develop advanced cost models and reporting tools.
Lead, coach, and mentor junior estimators and project controls professionals.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:

Must have demonstrated experience working on nuclear construction projects.
Experience supporting AP1000 projects is required.
Advanced to expert-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required.
Ability to work with large data sets and quickly learn new software tools.
Experience working in a PMO, project controls, or project management environment is required.
Proven experience supporting multi-million dollar or high-risk projects.
Onsite work environment with daily in-office expectations.

EXPECTED QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Project Management, Finance, Business, or related field preferred.
Minimum of 9 years of project controls or estimating experience.
Minimum of 11 years of experience in lieu of a degree.
Demonstrated experience estimating for nuclear or highly regulated construction projects.
Strong understanding of cost estimating methodologies, budgeting, forecasting, and cost control principles.
Experience supporting EPC or EPCM project environments.
Proficiency with estimating tools and advanced Excel-based models.
Strong knowledge of labor productivity, indirect costs, escalation, and contingency development.
Expert-level understanding of project controls principles and analytics.
Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience working in NRC or DOE regulated environments.
Familiarity with risk analysis tools and Monte Carlo simulations.
Professional certifications such as PMP or AACE certifications are a plus.
Experience with enterprise project systems and reporting tools preferred.
Prior experience in utility or large-scale infrastructure projects is a plus.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

Minimal travel may be required based on project needs.