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Project Controls Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Controls

Modesto, CA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

We are seeking a Project Controls to support the documentation and reporting aspects of our ... As an E Tech associate, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

Project Controls

Modesto, CA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

We are seeking a Project Controls to support the documentation and reporting aspects of our ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

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Project Controls Associate information

See California salary details

$19

$43

$65

How much do project controls associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for project controls associate in California is $43.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.58 and $50.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a project controls associate do?

A Project Controls Associate supports project management teams by monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on project cost, schedule, and performance data. They help ensure that projects stay on track by identifying variances, preparing forecasts, and maintaining detailed records of project progress. Their work involves collaborating with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to provide timely and accurate information that facilitates decision-making. This role is essential for maintaining project efficiency, controlling budgets, and minimizing risks.

How does a project controls associate typically collaborate with project managers and other team members?

Project Controls Associates work closely with project managers, schedulers, and cost engineers to ensure that all aspects of a project are on track. They regularly participate in team meetings to provide updates on scheduling, budgeting, and progress tracking. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as they often need to coordinate data collection, analyze project performance, and help implement corrective actions when necessary. This cross-functional teamwork helps ensure that projects meet their deadlines and budgetary constraints.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a project controls associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Controls Associate, you need a solid understanding of project management principles, data analysis, and cost/schedule control, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software such as Primavera P6, MS Project, and proficiency in Excel, along with knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM), are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you manage project data and collaborate with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring projects stay on track, on budget, and aligned with organizational objectives.

What is the difference between Project Controls Associate vs Cost Analyst?

AspectProject Controls AssociateCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in project management, finance, or related field; certifications like CAPM or PMP are commonRequires a degree in finance, accounting, or related; certifications like CPC or CMA are advantageous
Work EnvironmentWorks on project schedules, progress tracking, and reporting within construction, engineering, or IT projectsFocuses on budgeting, cost tracking, and financial analysis within similar industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction, engineering, and infrastructure firms for project oversightCommon in finance, construction, and engineering sectors for financial management

The Project Controls Associate and Cost Analyst roles share overlapping skills in project budgeting and financial tracking. However, the Project Controls Associate primarily focuses on project scheduling, progress monitoring, and reporting, while the Cost Analyst emphasizes cost analysis, budgeting, and financial forecasting. Both roles are essential for project success but serve different aspects of project management and financial oversight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Controls jobs in California?

The most popular types of Project Controls jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Project Controls Associate jobs in California?

For Project Controls Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Project Controls Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,985 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Assistant Project Controls Specialist

PDS Tech Commercial

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

$44 - $46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Build the Future of Construction as an Assistant Project Controls Specialist! 

Location: Walnut Creek, CA | Payrate: $44 - $46/hour | Schedule: 1st shift, 8am to 5pm 

Are you detail-oriented, analytical, and eager to build a career in project controls? PDS Tech Commercial is seeking a motivated Assistant Project Controls Specialist to support critical construction projects for one of the industry's leading organizations. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, gain hands-on exposure to project planning and controls, and contribute to projects that shape communities and infrastructure. 

About the Role 

As an Assistant Project Controls Specialist, you'll play a vital role in supporting project planning, scheduling, cost control, forecasting, and reporting activities. Your work will help project teams maintain accuracy, improve efficiency, and ensure successful project execution from start to finish. 

This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in project controls while working on dynamic construction projects in a collaborative and growth-focused environment. 

What You'll Do 

Project Controls & Reporting 

  • Support all aspects of project controls, including cost control, change management, progress measurement, schedule development, and schedule control. 

  • Assist with project setup and maintenance within Enterprise Planning & Controls software. 

  • Input project data, maintain logs, and generate reports using project controls systems and reporting tools. 

  • Help create and maintain Work Breakdown Structures (WBS). 

Cost Management & Forecasting 

  • Assist in developing and maintaining cost reports, forecasts, cash flow projections, and project performance reports. 

  • Support project change management processes, including upstream and downstream change orders. 

  • Review and assist with approval workflows for Purchase Orders and Subcontracts to ensure proper coding. 

  • Document updates and revisions to project cost reports and forecasts. 

Scheduling & Progress Tracking 

  • Assist in developing, updating, and maintaining project schedules. 

  • Apply scheduling logic ties and support resource loading activities. 

  • Coordinate project schedules and scheduling reports. 

  • Retrieve, review, and distribute scheduling reports and supporting documentation. 

  • Track and document project progress updates. 

Performance Measurement & Quality Assurance 

  • Support the development and maintenance of earned value management systems. 

  • Verify project progress measurements and maintain progress curves. 

  • Assist with material takeoffs. 

  • Perform quality checks on project controls deliverables. 

  • Participate in field audits to validate reporting accuracy and project control processes. 

  • Follow project execution plans and company policies, standards, and safety requirements. 

Required Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field OR equivalent applicable experience. 

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. 

  • Ability to obtain OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification. 

  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. 

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced project environment. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Experience with Oracle Primavera P6 scheduling software. 

  • Exposure to project scheduling, cost controls, forecasting, or construction project management. 

  • Familiarity with earned value management concepts. 

  • Experience working within construction, engineering, or industrial project environments. 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

If you're passionate about project controls, eager to learn, and ready to contribute to successful construction projects, we want to hear from you. 

Apply today and start building your future with PDS Tech Commercial! 


Pay Details: $44.00 to $46.00 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.


Company Description

Every year, PDS Tech Commercial and PDS Defense place thousands of skilled trades and engineering associates into roles all across the nation. Since our founding in 1977, we have maintained the highest standard of service and satisfaction among both talent and clients.

Today, we continue to deliver exceptional services as a proud member of The Adecco Group (TAG) family, a leading global workforce solutions provider. What does this mean for you? We are united by a powerful mission: making the future work for everyone. We offer our local experience paired with global resources, bringing significant advantages to all our areas of expertise. From end-to-end digital recruitment to priority redeployment and beyond, we are committed to building a better world of work for all.


PDS Tech logo

About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

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