Project Control Specialist

About the Role:

An established and forward-thinking engineering consultancy based in Abu Dhabi is looking to recruit a Project Control Specialist to support the successful delivery of multidisciplinary design and construction supervision projects. The firm is well-recognized in the region for its high-profile infrastructure and building programs, partnering with government and private sector clients across the UAE.

The successful candidate will be a key contributor to the project controls function, providing essential support to Project Managers across budgeting, forecasting, cost monitoring, invoicing, reporting, and performance tracking. Experience in the consultancy sector, particularly within the UAE, is essential, along with strong command of Deltek ERP and advanced Excel capabilities.

Core Responsibilities:

Collaborate with Project Managers to develop initial project budgets, update cost forecasts, and ensure financial targets are met throughout the project lifecycle.

Analyze project financial performance and prepare detailed monthly reports, including cost variances, trend analysis, and revenue tracking.

Ensure all project-related revenues, expenses, and overheads are recorded and reported in line with internal policies and client contracts.

Manage project financials using Deltek ERP, including:

Budget configuration

Cost monitoring and forecasting

Resource allocation and planning

Invoicing and accrual processing

Build and maintain Excel-based models to support pricing strategies, cash flow planning, and scenario forecasting.

Prepare financial dashboards and performance indicators to support internal reviews and strategic decision-making.

Coordinate monthly accruals, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and internal audit requirements.

Work closely with the finance and commercial departments to prepare and track client invoices, resolve billing issues, and follow up on collections.

Support proposal teams during tender submissions by providing cost inputs, manpower loading, and pricing structures.

Maintain well-organized documentation of all project financial data and controls throughout each project phase.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Project Management, or a closely related field.

Professional certifications such as CCP, PMP, or other project control credentials are advantageous.

Experience:

Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in project controls, specifically within the engineering consultancy environment.

Strong background in design and supervision consultancy for infrastructure or architectural projects.

In-depth knowledge of UAE-based project delivery frameworks and cost structures in consultancy contracts.

Skills & Competencies:

Proficiency in Deltek ERP for financial control and reporting.

Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, including financial modeling, pivot tables, lookup functions, and cash flow forecasting.

Revenue recognition methods (e.g., % complete, T&M, fixed fee)

Cost categorization (direct, indirect)

Overhead allocation

Accruals and project close-out practices

Ability to develop and present visual reports and dashboards using Excel or BI tools.

High attention to detail and strong numerical and analytical skills.

Proactive and solution-focused, with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting.

Strong communication and collaboration skills, with a team-oriented approach to working with technical, financial, and commercial stakeholders.