Project Controls Specialist

Career Area:

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other.  We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Position Overview

Solar Turbines is seeking a Principal Cost Controller – Planning to support the planning, monitoring, and coordination of project cost and material performance for complex projects. This role sits at the intersection of cost control and material planning, partnering closely with cross-functional teams to improve cost visibility, material flow, and delivery performance.
The position applies established cost control, planning, and supply chain practices to support project objectives related to cost, schedule, and execution while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Support cost control, estimating, and material planning activities for assigned projects and product lines.
• Develop and maintain project budgets, forecasts, earned value metrics, and performance reporting.
• Coordinate material procurement, production scheduling, inventory planning, and delivery activities.
• Apply MRP (Manufacturing Requirements Planning) and DRP (Distribution Requirements Planning) processes to align demand, production capacity, and distribution requirements.
• Analyze project and operational data to identify opportunities for improved cost control, inventory utilization, and supply chain efficiency.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on process efficiency, data accuracy, and standardization.
• Assess risks, assumptions, and alternatives; summarize cost, schedule, and material impacts; and provide input to leadership.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement, Finance, Distribution, and Field Support teams.
• Provide functional guidance and coordination support to a small number of personnel as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or 5-8 years' experience desired. Experience in cost control, project planning, or material planning within a manufacturing or project-based environment preferred.

Strong analytical problem-solving skills, ability to use and communicate statistical and problem-solving tools including root cause analysis and corrective action skills.

Well-developed interpersonal skills strongly preferred in dealing with sensitive issues, developing others, and reaching consensus on specific actions, inside and outside of Solar.

Preferred Qualifications

Earned Value Professional (EVP)

Certified Cost Professional (CCP)

Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Project Management Experience

Six Sigma Black Belt

Summary Pay Range:

 $112,710.00 - $169,060.00

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience.

Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

BENEFITS:

• Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines.
• This is a summary list of benefits.
• Competitive salary and annual bonus program 
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage 
• Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Sick, Etc.) 
• Health savings account (HSA) 
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) 
• Life Insurance 
• Employee Assistance Programs 
• Voluntary Benefits (Ex. Accident, Identity Theft Protection) 
• There will be cross-training and qualifications-based opportunities to earn up to an additional $2 per hour, with any night shift activity qualifying for another $3 per hour. 
• Potential base salary increases from annual performance reviews