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Cost Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Proven project experience as a Cost Engineer / Cost Controller * Skilled in oral and written communication, with demonstrated ability to present Project Controls information to management/client

Controller

Scotts Valley, CA · On-site

$230K - $270K/yr

Controller (Hands-On Build Role | Hardware / Manufacturing) Location: Scotts Valley, CA (Onsite 4-5 ... Build inventory and cost accounting systems to support manufacturing and product COGS * Establish ...

Controller

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Controller WHO WE ARE H.M. Holloway was established in 1932. Since then, we have established ... We are dedicated to helping our stakeholders grow with high-quality and cost-efficient products ...

Controller (Hands-On Build Role | Hardware / Manufacturing) Location: Scotts Valley, CA (Onsite 4-5 ... Build inventory and cost accounting systems to support manufacturing and product COGS * Establish ...

Controller

Scotts Valley, CA · On-site

$230K - $270K/yr

Controller (Hands-On Build Role | Hardware / Manufacturing)Location: Scotts Valley, CA (Onsite 4-5 ... cost accounting systems to support manufacturing and product COGSEstablish and own the month-end ...

Manage cost accounting systems, including standard costing and variance analysis * Monitor ... Controller, Assistant Controller, etc.) * Strong knowledge of GAAP * Experience with cost ...

Direct all core accounting functions, including general ledger, cost accounting, payables ... Controller

Controller

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Controller - Construction Location: Anaheim, CA A growing mechanical contractor is seeking a hands ... Review job cost reports and provide financial insight to company leadership and project teams ...

Controller

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$130 - $150/hr

Controller Controller Department:Accounting & Finance Are you a strategic finance leader with a ... Strong expertise in cost accounting, including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory ...

Controller

Redondo Beach, CA · Hybrid

$130K - $150K/yr

Description & Requirements Controller Are you a strategic finance leader with a passion for ... Strong expertise in cost accounting, including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory ...

Controller

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Controller (Consulting Engagement) Location: San Diego, CA (Onsite) Duration: Approximately 3 6 ... Hands-on experience with government contracts, grants, restricted funding, cost allocations, and ...

Controller

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Controller (Consulting Engagement) Location: San Diego, CA (Onsite) Duration: Approximately 3-6 ... Hands-on experience with government contracts, grants, restricted funding, cost allocations, and ...

Controller

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

The Controller will manage the accounting team, oversee month-end and year-end close processes ... Strong expertise in cost accounting, including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory ...

Controller

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Controller (Consulting Engagement) Location: San Diego, CA (Onsite) Duration: Approximately 36 ... Hands-on experience with government contracts, grants, restricted funding, cost allocations, and ...

Controller

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Review cost-to-complete, underbillings, overbillings, and budget-to-actual performance * Partner ... Experience as a Controller, Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, or senior construction ...

Controller

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$105 - $125/hr

Controller Location: BVR Commercial Center Classification: Full-Time, exempt Salary: $105,000 to ... Monitor revenue, cost of goods sold, gross margin, operating expenses, and cash flow. * Prepare ...

This role is pivotal in strengthening internal controls, elevating cost accounting sophistication ... Controller or leadership role • Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting • ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cost Controller information

See California salary details

$35K

$97K

$146.1K

How much do cost controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost controller in California is $96,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cost controller?

Cost controllers track and control the costs associated with a project. They work in many different industries, including business, construction, and health care. As a cost controller, your job duties include verifying costs with vendors and suppliers, estimating expenditures, and recommending cost-saving measures to upper management. To become a cost controller, you need a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field and several years of industry experience.

How does a cost controller typically collaborate with project managers and other departments to ensure project budgets are maintained?

A Cost Controller works closely with project managers, procurement teams, and finance departments to monitor spending, forecast costs, and ensure budgets are adhered to throughout a project's lifecycle. Regular meetings and status updates are common, allowing the Cost Controller to track progress, identify potential overruns early, and suggest corrective actions. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential, as the role often involves negotiating with various stakeholders to maintain financial discipline while supporting project objectives.

What is the difference between Cost Controller vs Cost Analyst?

AspectCost ControllerCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CMA or CPA are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in finance, accounting, or economics; certifications like CMA are advantageous
Work EnvironmentUsually employed in construction, manufacturing, or large corporate projects; involved in budgeting and cost managementWorks in finance or accounting departments; focuses on analyzing costs and financial data
Industry UsageCommonly used in industries with large projects or production processesUsed across various industries for financial analysis and reporting

While both roles involve financial analysis, a Cost Controller primarily manages and monitors project or departmental budgets, ensuring costs stay within limits. A Cost Analyst focuses on analyzing financial data to identify cost-saving opportunities and support decision-making. Both roles require strong analytical skills and financial knowledge, but their focus areas differ slightly.

How much does a cost controller make in the US?

A cost controller in the US typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, with the average salary around $75,000. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, and location, and the role often requires proficiency in budgeting, financial analysis, and cost management tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Controller jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cost Controller jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Controller jobs in California?

For Cost Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Controller jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Controller jobs in CA?

For Cost Controller jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cost Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,990 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Field Cost Engineer - Common Distribs

Bechtel

On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Bechtel rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Requisition ID: 298007 

  •  Relocation Authorized: National - Camp 
  • Telework Type: Full-Time Office/Project 
  • Work Location: Brisbane, QLD
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:

Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place. 

Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations. 

Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report. 

Project Overview:

The Project is a greenfield mining, process, material handling and ship loading project with a focus on sustaining production, minimise environmental impacts, strengthen long-term relationships with neighbouring communities and foster local economic development.  

Job Summary:

The Field Cost Engineer – Common Distributable is responsible for cost control and reporting activities for site indirect contracts. The role will involve review and assessment of contractor progress claims and variations, budget control and reporting.

This role is offered on a 2:1 FIFO roster to Weipa (onboarding in Brisbane office, then transitioning to FIFO in Q2 2027).

Major Responsibilities:
  • Performs routine cost forecasting, analysis, and control activities, as directed
  • Prepares specific budgets in accordance with prescribed standards and procedures
  • Reviewing and understanding relevant project documents relating to cost control of allocated packages
  • Working in conjunction with field Supervision and Contracts personnel to review and certify contractor progress claims for payment
  • Maintaining and revising contract pricing schedules for works contracts
  • Reviewing cost commitment and expenditure information for input to cost control and reporting system (EcoSys)
  • Support of works contractors in establishing routine reporting in line with Project requirements
  • Monitors the development of contractor’s reporting deliverables to the required format and standard
  • Produces cost status reports and advising management of any forecast cost overruns
  • Monitors cost and commitment of assigned purchase orders and contract packages.
  • Assists with budget allocation and reporting/cost control for specific construction discipline or group of disciplines
Education and Experience Requirements:

Requires Bachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying, Engineering, Project/Construction Management or related fields and 5-8 years of relevant experience; or 9-12 years of relevant work experience.

Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • Experience in performing, monitoring, and reviewing cost engineering functions, including engineering and construction progress reporting, cost control, and cost analysis, in the field and the home office.
  • Proven project experience as a Cost Engineer / Cost Controller
  • Skilled in oral and written communication, with demonstrated ability to present Project Controls information to management/client
  • Knowledge of engineering, procurement, contracts, construction, and start-up work processes, as performed by Tier One construction contractors (EPC/EPCM).
  • Knowledge of engineering and construction management customarily acquired over time through specialized instruction or practical experience.
  • Minerals process plant and materials handling experience is beneficial.

Working Rights in Australia without employer sponsorship are required.

Total Rewards/Benefits:

For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive.  Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards

Diverse teams build the extraordinary:

As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.

We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.

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Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com


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