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Cost Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Senior Cost Analyst - Construction

Detroit, MI · On-site

$82K - $104K/yr

Manage cost control activities on assigned projects, including budgets, forecasts, cost-to-complete updates, and variance analysis. * Monitor project financial performance and identify cost risks ...

Senior Cost Analyst - Construction

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

$82K - $104K/yr

Manage cost control activities on assigned projects, including budgets, forecasts, costtocomplete updates, and variance analysis. * Monitor project financial performance and identify cost risks ...

Senior Cost Analyst - Construction

Detroit, MI · Hybrid

$82K - $104K/yr

Manage cost control activities on assigned projects, including budgets, forecasts, costtocomplete updates, and variance analysis. * Monitor project financial performance and identify cost risks ...

Specialist, Cost Accounting

Canton, MI · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

  • Retirement

The Cost Accountant is responsible for providing financial analysis and cost management support throughout the product lifecycle, ensuring alignment with Global Project Management processes and ...

Specialist, Cost Accounting

Canton, MI · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

  • Retirement

The Cost Accountant is responsible for providing financial analysis and cost management support throughout the product lifecycle, ensuring alignment with Global Project Management processes and ...

Apply leadership skills and the ability to manage competing priorities, multiple tasks and work ... Knowledge of cost estimating and economic analysis models, methods, theories, and their application

Apply leadership skills and the ability to manage competing priorities, multiple tasks and work ... Knowledge of cost estimating and economic analysis models, methods, theories, and their application

Showing results 41-60

Cost Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$34K

$93.3K

$128.1K

How much do cost manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost manager in Michigan is $93,267.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $105,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cost manager?

A cost manager plans a budget and ensures cost-effective operations for a project or a company’s overall business model. Your job duties include using financial information to create a streamlined operations model and auditing current projects to see if they are cost-effective. A career as a cost manager requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related subject, and certification as a certified public accountant (CPA). Requirements for senior management positions may be more demanding, requiring five or more years of experience.

What is a cost manager?

A Cost Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing and controlling the costs associated with construction projects. Their role involves estimating project costs, managing budgets, tracking expenditures, and ensuring that projects remain within financial constraints. Cost Managers collaborate closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to provide accurate financial guidance and cost-effective solutions throughout the project lifecycle. Their expertise helps clients maximize value and minimize risk in construction investments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cost manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cost Manager, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of construction or project cost control, and a relevant degree such as quantity surveying or construction management. Familiarity with cost management software like CostX or Sage, and professional certifications such as RICS or AACE, are commonly required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and managing budgets. These competencies ensure accurate cost planning, efficient resource allocation, and successful project delivery within budget constraints.

How does a cost manager typically collaborate with project teams to control budgets and manage changes during a construction project?

Cost Managers work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to monitor and control project budgets throughout all phases of construction. They regularly review cost estimates, track spending against forecasts, and assess the financial impact of any design or scope changes. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as Cost Managers often facilitate discussions to ensure that changes are implemented within budget constraints while maintaining project quality. Their proactive involvement helps prevent cost overruns and supports the delivery of projects on time and within budget.

What is the difference between Cost Manager vs Cost Analyst?

AspectCost ManagerCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CMA or CPA are commonUsually holds a degree in finance, accounting, or economics; certifications like CMA can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentOversees budgeting, cost control, and financial planning for projects or departmentsAnalyzes cost data, prepares reports, and supports budgeting processes
Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and corporate finance sectorsCommon in finance, manufacturing, and consulting firms

While both roles focus on cost management, the Cost Manager has broader responsibilities including strategic planning and overseeing cost control initiatives, whereas the Cost Analyst primarily analyzes data and supports budgeting activities. The roles often collaborate but differ in scope and seniority.

How much do cost managers make in the US?

Cost managers in the US typically earn an average salary of around $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those with certifications like Certified Cost Professional (CCP) can earn higher salaries, and the job often requires strong analytical skills and proficiency with cost estimation tools.

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

The most popular types of Cost jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Manager jobs in Michigan?

For Cost Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Manager jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Manager jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Cost Manager jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Cost Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Cost Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,267 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Senior Cost Analyst - Construction

Walbridge

Detroit, MI • On-site

$82K - $104K/yr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Walbridge rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
The Opportunity
As Senior Cost Analyst-Construction, you will be responsible for managing project cost control activities to ensure accurate financial reporting, proactive cost management, and compliance with company cost control standards. This role partners closely with Project Managers, Estimators, Accounting, and executive leadership to support strong financial performance across assigned projects.
This position is ideal for a detail-driven professional who thrives in a fast-paced, project-based environment and can translate complex cost data into clear, actionable insights.
Location
You will work from our headquarters in Detroit, MI.
Responsibilities
Project Cost Management
  • Manage cost control activities on assigned projects, including budgets, forecasts, cost-to-complete updates, and variance analysis.
  • Monitor project financial performance and identify cost risks, trends, and opportunities.
  • Maintain accurate cost reports, contingency logs, and change tracking documentation.
  • Develop monthly Owner billings and process subcontractor pay applications.

Budgeting & Forecasting
  • Partner with Project Managers, Estimators, and Accounting to establish and maintain accurate project budgets.
  • Regularly update forecasts to reflect current project conditions and approved changes.
  • Ensure alignment between revenue, costs, and contract requirements.

Reporting & Financial Analysis
  • Prepare and review detailed cost reports for project teams and leadership.
  • Perform variance analysis between actual, budgeted, and forecasted costs, providing clear explanations and recommendations.
  • Support leadership with timely and reliable cost intelligence.

Billing & Change Management
  • Support preparation and review of owner billings, subcontractor pay applications, and related financial documentation.
  • Track approved and pending change orders and ensure timely incorporation into cost systems.
  • Collaborate with Accounting during month-end close, audits, and reconciliations.

Team Leadership & Supervision
  • Supervise and support 1 Cost Analyst, providing day-to-day guidance, workload prioritization, and technical oversight.
  • Review analysts' cost reports, forecasts, variance analyses, and supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness.
  • Promote consistency, accountability, and quality across cost control deliverables.
  • Partner with Cost Control leadership on performance feedback, development planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Standards, Compliance & Team Support
  • Ensure compliance with corporate cost control guidelines, procedures, and reporting standards.
  • Identify opportunities to improve cost control processes and reporting accuracy.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to Cost Control Analysts and Coordinators as needed.

Qualifications
To qualify for the role, you must have
  • Bachelor's degree in finance, Accounting, Business, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 5 or more years' experience in cost control, project accounting, or financial management in a project-based environment, at least 2 of those MUST be in construction
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with project teams and leadership.
  • Experience working with cost control systems and financial reporting tools.

Ideally, you'll also have
  • Proficiency with CMiC or comparable project cost systems.
  • Ability to build trust with project teams, executives, finance, and clients.
  • Strong process ownership mindset.
  • Ability to influence across functions and solve complex financial challenges.
  • High emotional intelligence with a collaborative leadership style.

Why Join Us
  • Play a critical role in driving project financial performance
  • Work closely with project and executive leadership
  • Opportunity to grow within an established Cost Control organization
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of enterprise cost management practices

Excited to make an impact? Apply now!
Click the "Submit for this job online" button below. We look forward to hearing from you!
EEO/AA Employer M/F/D/V
EEO/AA Employer M/F/D/V
Walbridge is an equal opportunity employer with a culture that promotes diversity in the workforce. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, disability, military or protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, promotions, and termination.

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