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How much do principal project controls specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for principal project controls specialist in the United States is $43.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.06 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal project controls specialist?

A Principal Project Controls Specialist is a senior professional responsible for overseeing and managing project controls processes, such as scheduling, cost management, risk assessment, and progress tracking, on large or complex projects. They ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to quality standards by implementing best practices and utilizing specialized software. This role often involves mentoring junior staff, coordinating with project managers and stakeholders, and providing detailed reports and forecasts to support decision-making. Their expertise is critical in minimizing risks and maximizing project efficiency.

How does a principal project controls specialist collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders during the project lifecycle?

A Principal Project Controls Specialist works closely with project managers, engineers, and finance teams to ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget. They facilitate regular progress meetings, provide detailed reports on cost and schedule performance, and proactively identify potential risks or deviations. Their role often involves integrating input from multiple departments, ensuring clear communication, and supporting decision-making with accurate data and forecasts. This collaborative approach helps maintain project alignment with organizational goals and client expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal project controls specialist?

To thrive as a Principal Project Controls Specialist, you need deep expertise in project management, cost control, scheduling, and risk analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field. Proficiency with project management tools such as Primavera P6, MS Project, and cost management software, as well as certifications like PMP or AACE, is highly valued. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you lead teams and effectively manage complex projects. These capabilities are crucial for delivering projects on time and within budget while minimizing risks for organizational success.

What is the difference between Principal Project Controls Specialist vs Project Controls Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Project Controls SpecialistProject Controls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires PMP, AACE certifications, or equivalentOften requires PMP or related certifications, with engineering degrees
Work EnvironmentSenior-level, strategic planning, overseeing controls across projectsTechnical, focused on implementing controls and data analysis
Industry UsageUsed in large, complex projects across industries like construction and oil & gasCommon in project execution teams for technical control tasks

The Principal Project Controls Specialist generally holds a senior, strategic role overseeing project controls, while the Project Controls Engineer focuses on technical implementation and data analysis. Both roles require relevant certifications and are vital in large projects, but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does a principal project controls specialist do?

A principal project controls specialist oversees and manages project scheduling, cost control, risk management, and reporting to ensure projects stay on track and within budget. They develop and implement control systems, analyze project data, and coordinate with project teams to optimize performance using tools like Primavera or MS Project. This role often requires strong analytical skills, industry certifications, and experience in large-scale project environments.

What cities are hiring for Principal Project Controls Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Principal Project Controls Specialist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Project Controls Specialist jobs?

For Principal Project Controls Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Principal Project Controls Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Project Controls Specialist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,179 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

FIELD PRINCIPAL PROJECT CONTROLS SPECIALIST

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Gulf Interstate Engineering Company
Oil and Gas Extraction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Gulf Interstate Engineering Companyexternal

Per diem

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate project planning and develop/maintain project schedules, budgets, and related activities.

  • Analyze earned value progress reports to identify project risks and support risk mitigation efforts.

  • Supervise project controls specialists, provide training, and interface with departments and third parties for invoicing and cost tracking.

Job description

Description

Position Title: Field Principal Project Controls Specialist



Location: Indiana/per diem provided for qualified candidates





Gulf Companies has served the global energy industry since 1953 by supporting the complete project lifecycle and developing valued business partnerships to ensure the success of the project. Our worldwide experience and multi-disciplined capabilities encompass all aspects of the Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management, Field Inspection, GIS Integrity, Staffing Services and more.


Position Description

The Principal Project Controls Specialist coordinates the efforts on and performs project control activities on specific projects. He/she shall be capable of providing high-quality project controls services on high profile projects with major clients.


Essential Functions

Coordinate project planning and develop/maintain project schedules, status reports, project budgets/costs, progress, invoicing, and other related activities.

Provide key reports to project management for the purposes of supporting decisions and direction of the overall project.

Analyze earned value progress reports to determine project risks and assist in determining how to mitigate such risks.

Ensure contractual obligations are being met on each project for items relating to project controls.

Maintain change management procedures on each project including the monitoring and tracking of cost and schedule trends/changes.

Coordinate with Project Manager, Project Team on tracking performance against budget and schedule.

Assist in developing and maintaining staffing and manpower plans, project/proposal budgets, contract plans, etc.

Provide hands-on training on various aspects of project controls to project controls specialists.

Supervise project controls specialist(s) as required, including directing and prioritizing workloads and checking deliverables.

Interface with in-house departments and third parties for invoicing and cost tracking purposes.


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Requirements

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in engineering or a Business-related major.

5-7 years Project Controls industry experience, with up to 2 years in a lead role.

Proficient in MS Project and Primavera.

Proficient in MS Excel.

Familiar with oil and gas pipeline engineering processes.


Competencies

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Excellent written and verbal communications skills

Capable of working on multiple projects in a fast paced environment.

Problem solving

Guidance and mentoring

Results oriented


Work Environment/Physical Demands

Working conditions are normal for an office environment.

Frequent sitting and operating a computer.

Must be able to use body members to work, move or carry objects or office materials.

Must be able to exert up to 10 pounds of force occasionally.

Physical demands requirements are at levels of those for sedentary work.


Gulf is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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