Cost Engineer

Job Title:

Cost EngineerMake an Impact on Major Energy Infrastructure Projects We are seeking a skilled Cost Engineer to play a critical role in delivering large-scale EPC and heavy industrial construction projects-starting with a high-profile co-generation power plant currently under construction. This role sits at the center of project execution, providing the financial insight, foresight, and control needed to successfully deliver complex, multi-year capital programs. As a Cost Engineer, you won't just track numbers-you'll help shape project decisions, surface risks early, and serve as a trusted financial advisor to project leadership. You'll collaborate closely with Project Managers, Operations, Engineering, and technical teams to ensure cost performance stays aligned with execution strategy. What You'll DoOwn Project Cost Performance + Lead cost tracking and control for EPC and heavy industrial construction projects, including large, multi-year capital programs. + Manage budget vs. actuals, commitments, incurred costs, and cash flow across all phases of the project lifecycle. + Develop and maintain Estimates at Completion (EACs) and Estimates to Complete (ETCs) to drive accurate forecasting. Deliver Insightful Forecasting & Risk Analysis + Perform detailed cost forecasting and trend analysis to proactively identify emerging risks and potential overruns. + Analyze cost variances, identify root causes, and elevate issues early with clear, data-driven recommendations. + Apply Earned Value Management ( EVM ) principles, including CPI and SPI analysis, to evaluate cost and schedule performance. Support Change & Decision-Making + Support full change management processes, including cost impact analysis, change order evaluation, and budget adjustments. + Translate complex financial and performance data into clear, actionable insights for project leadership. + Act as a trusted cost advisor, helping leadership optimize costs, mitigate risks, and improve overall project performance. Leverage Industry-Leading Tools + Use EcoSys, Procore, SAP , Excel, Power BI, JDE , and other project controls tools to deliver accurate, timely cost reporting. + Prepare and present dashboards, forecasts, and reports tailored to leadership and key stakeholders. + Ensure compliance with Project Controls Execution Plans, internal standards, and cost control best practices. Collaborate & Improve + Partner closely with Project Managers, Engineering, Operations, Scheduling, Procurement, and other technical teams. + Support integration between cost and schedule data to ensure consistent project controls. + Contribute to the continuous improvement of cost control processes, tools, and reporting standards. What We're Looking ForCore Qualifications + 5+ years of experience in Cost Engineering or project controls within EPC , utility, or heavy industrial construction environments. + Proven expertise in cost forecasting, budgeting, and cost/risk trend analysis on capital projects. + Hands-on experience using Earned Value Management ( EVM ), including CPI and SPI reporting. + Advanced Excel skills for analysis, modeling, and reporting. + Experience with EcoSys and/or JDE as primary cost management systems. + Proficiency in Power BI for dashboards and visual cost reporting. + Experience with SAP and Procore (Procore preferred). + Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related field-or equivalent experience. Preferred & Additional Experience + Experience supporting utility, energy infrastructure, power generation, or co-generation projects. + Strong understanding of change order processes and cost impact evaluation. + Experience in true project-based capital environments (not manufacturing or corporate accounting). + Ability to communicate financial insights clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. + Strong analytical mindset, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. + A continuous-improvement mindset with a passion for improving project delivery outcomes. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Kansas City, MO. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $158000.00/yr. Competitive base salary Generous PTO & paid holidays to maintain work-life balance 401(k) with a generous match to plan for your future Comprehensive benefits - medical, dental, vision, and life insurance Weekly pay for consistent, reliable compensation Great mentoring & career growth opportunities - we invest in your development Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Kansas City,MO. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 2026. About Actalent To view full details and how to apply, please login or create a Job Seeker account