2 Capital Management Cost Analysts (Not Data Analysts)

2 Construction/Capital Management Cost Analysts This is not a Data Analyst role!!! Strongly prefer local Michigan based candidates! Location: Detroit, MI Work Model: Hybrid (onsite a few days per week) Duration: 2+ year contract Pay Rate: $55–$65/hr (W2) Position Overview We are seeking two experienced Cost Analysts to support capital and infrastructure projects within the Corporate Planning & Analysis organization. This role focuses on project cost controls—monitoring, forecasting, and reporting costs throughout the project lifecycle. These positions work closely with project managers, contract administrators, and field teams to ensure financial accuracy, identify cost variances, and support strategic decision-making. This is a project finance / project cost controls role, not a traditional accounting or FP&A position. Key Responsibilities • Track, collect, and analyze planned vs. actual project costs • Monitor expenditures, forecasts, and budget performance • Identify and report cost variances with detailed narrative explanations • Support project teams in overall financial and cost-control processes • Assist with contract administration and change control cost reviews • Prepare and analyze project KPIs and ad hoc financial reports • Alert leadership and project managers to potential cost overruns • Review and resolve project mischarges • Validate progress payments, milestone payments, and contractor invoicing • Conduct weekly Purchase Order and commitment analysis • Analyze unbilled liabilities, accruals, and expense timing • Attend field/construction meetings and incorporate progress into reporting • Support earned value analysis and overall project performance metrics Minimum Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field • 5+ years of relevant financial analysis or project cost experience • Proficiency with Excel, Word, and SAP • Strong analytical, organizational, and reporting skills Preferred Qualifications • MBA and/or CPA • AACE certification (or equivalent cost engineering credential) • Professional certification in cost control • Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) • Experience with: • SAP R/3, BW, SRM, Work Management systems • Maximo • Primavera P6 • Power BI • Power Query • Database systems • Experience supporting large capital, infrastructure, or construction projects Technical Skills • Advanced Excel, including Power Query • SAP financial and work management systems expertise • Power BI and other data visualization/reporting tools • Project scheduling systems (Primavera P6 preferred) • Strong data analysis and database utilization abilities • Financial forecasting and variance analysis Soft Skills & Competencies • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Ability to present financial data to both technical and executive audiences • High-level analytical and problem-solving capability • Excellent project management and organizational skills • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, matrixed environment • Effective under pressure with strong follow-through • Collaborative and team‑oriented • Ability to influence stakeholders and drive financial best practices Ideal Candidate Profile The ideal candidate has a strong background in project controls, cost engineering, or capital project finance, ideally within large-scale construction or infrastructure environments. They are highly analytical, systems-savvy (SAP, Excel, BI tools), and comfortable working across project teams, field operations, and leadership to ensure accurate financial reporting and disciplined cost management.