Project Controls Specialist

Underwood & Associates (U&A) is an environmental design–build firm specializing in nature-based solutions that restore ecosystem function and resilience. The Project Controls Specialist provides critical support to our project management team by coordinating and tracking the financial, contractual, and administrative elements of our restoration projects, with specific focus on Requests For Information and Change Orders. This position ensures accurate documentation, timely invoicing, and clear communication between clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and thrives in a collaborative environment that blends field work, engineering, and construction.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with development of Requests for Information (RFIs), submittals, change orders, and payment applications. Manage and track them from project initiation through closeout.
• Prepare and maintain project budgets, cost reports, and forecasts, ensuring accurate and timely financial tracking.
• Review subcontractor invoices and vendor billings for accuracy, supporting documentation, and contract compliance.
• Coordinate preparation and submission of client invoices, including progress documentation, backup, and correspondence.
• Maintain change management logs and support project managers in evaluating and processing scope modifications.
• Assist with contract administration, including preparation of subcontract agreements, purchase orders, and change orders, based on thorough knowledge of contract specifications.
• Track project compliance during maintenance phase and coordinate compliance work when required.
• Support as-needed project status reviews and assist in financial reporting to leadership.
• Attend monthly client coordination meetings to report on project status and compliance.
• Ensure all project documentation meets company and client standards for quality, organization, and completeness.
• Collaborate with staff to collect data needed for invoicing, reporting, and project forecasting.
• Assist Project Managers in performing constructability reviews for upcoming projects and create written reports for submission.
• Prepare construction budget proposals with support from Project Managers.
• Prepare annual cost increase requests in accordance with contract terms.
• Contribute to continuous improvement by developing tools, templates, and procedures that enhance project efficiency and communication.
• Support average work week of 40-50 hours.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in project administration, cost control, or project accounting within the construction or environmental restoration industry.
• Knowledge of construction contracts, change order processes, and project billing cycles.
• Ability to accurately read and interpret environmental construction plan sets.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and project management/accounting software (e.g., Procore, Raken, or similar).
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively under deadlines.

Preferred Skills & Certifications

• Experience supporting environmental restoration projects.
• Familiarity with public-sector contracting.
• Understanding of earned value management (EVM) or other project performance metrics.
• OSHA 30, Confined Space, Excavation & Shoring, Sediment & Erosion Control, Traffic Flagger, Traffic Control Setup, and/or similar certifications

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary of $85,000-$95,000 based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (company pays 70% of employee’s premium)
• 7 days PTO after 106 days of employment
• 8 paid holidays annually
• Lunch stipend provided
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and advancement
• Meaningful, place-based work that improves water quality and ecological function

Job Type: Full-time

Projected Total Compensation: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• construction contact: 3 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $85,000 - $95,000