1

Project Cost Administrator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Cost Administrator

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$55.10 - $67.50/hr

Field Project Professionals Requisition Number : FIELD005449 * Posted : July 31, 2026 * Full-Time * On-site Locations Showing 1 location Description Job Summary: The Field Cost Administrator will be ...

New

Project Cost Analyst

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Become the go-to person Project Managers, Site Admins, and the Travel Manager route weekly cost inputs through. * Surface cost trends and risk areas to FP&A and Dredge Operations leadership ...

Project Cost Analyst

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Become the go-to person Project Managers, Site Admins, and the Travel Manager route weekly cost inputs through. * Surface cost trends and risk areas to FP&A and Dredge Operations leadership ...

COST ACCOUNTANT

La Mirada, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $88K/yr

Access to the Largest Construction Projects * Nationwide Offices * A Competitive and Rewarding ... ABOUT US: Tomarco Contractor Specialties LLP, (dba ISAT Total Support) is a pioneer in MEP ...

COST ACCOUNTANT

La Mirada, CA ยท On-site

$65K - $88K/yr

Access to the Largest Construction Projects * Nationwide Offices * A Competitive and Rewarding ... ABOUT US: Tomarco Contractor Specialties LLP, (dba ISAT Total Support) is a pioneer in MEP ...

Project Administrator Location : La Palma, CA 90623 Urgent Fill by the client !!! This role ... cost transfers Project Finances Maintain an accurate Plan0 cost plan for each assigned project ...

Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Administer owner contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, and other project agreements * Manage ... Identify and implement value engineering and cost-saving opportunities * Forecast the labor ...

Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Administer owner contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, and other project agreements * Manage ... Identify and implement value engineering and cost-saving opportunities * Forecast the labor ...

Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Administer owner contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, and other project agreements * Manage ... Identify and implement value engineering and cost-saving opportunities * Forecast the labor ...

Project Manager

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Administer owner contracts, subcontracts, purchase orders, and other project agreements * Manage ... Identify and implement value engineering and cost-saving opportunities * Forecast the labor ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Project Cost Administrator information

What is a project cost administrator?

Project Cost Administrators are professionals responsible for managing and monitoring the financial aspects of a project. They track budgets, analyze expenses, and ensure that project costs stay within approved limits. Their duties often include preparing cost reports, processing invoices, and collaborating with project managers and accounting teams. By overseeing costs, they help ensure projects are completed efficiently and within financial constraints.

How does a project cost administrator typically collaborate with project managers and finance teams?

Project Cost Administrators work closely with project managers to monitor budgets, track expenditures, and ensure financial data aligns with project goals. They regularly communicate with finance teams to reconcile accounts, process invoices, and update cost reports. This collaborative effort helps maintain transparency in spending and enables timely identification of potential budget overruns or discrepancies. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential for ensuring project costs are accurately managed throughout the project lifecycle.

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

To thrive as a Project Cost Administrator, you need a solid background in finance or accounting, attention to detail, and familiarity with project management principles, typically supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Proficiency with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), cost control systems, and advanced Excel skills is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure are important soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure accurate cost tracking, budget adherence, and efficient collaboration, which are critical for the successful financial management of projects.

What is the difference between Project Cost Administrator vs Cost Analyst?

AspectProject Cost AdministratorCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CAP or CMA are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in finance, accounting, or economics; certifications like CAP or CMA are also common
Work EnvironmentWorks on project-specific budgets, often within construction, engineering, or manufacturing industriesAnalyzes cost data across projects or departments, often in corporate finance or consulting settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction firms, engineering companies, and project-based industriesFound in corporate finance, consulting firms, and industries focusing on cost control and financial analysis

The Project Cost Administrator and Cost Analyst roles share similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ mainly in their focus. The Project Cost Administrator manages project-specific budgets and cost tracking, while the Cost Analyst performs broader cost analysis across multiple projects or departments. Both roles are essential for controlling costs and ensuring financial efficiency within organizations.

How much do project cost administrators make in the US?

Project Cost Administrators in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can vary based on certifications, such as CPC or PMP, and the complexity of projects managed.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Project Cost Administrator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Field Cost Administrator

Matrix Project Services, LLC

El Segundo, CA โ€ข On-site

$31 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop detailed project budgets using final estimates and standard cost code structure.

  • Review job costs to ensure correct cost codes are assigned and perform budget maintenance including transfers and change order budgets.

  • Oversee change management processes by tracking extra work, submitting requests, maintaining reports, and verifying costs are captured and invoiced.


Job description

Job Summary:

The Field Cost Administrator will be responsible for setting up, updating, and analyzing performance for assigned projects.  This role is project-based with an initial assignment at our jobsite in El Segundo, California.

Essential Functions:
    • Actively supports the Company’s commitment to safety and its “Core Values”
    • Represents Company at all times with high moral standards while adhering to the Company’s “Code of Business Conduct and Ethics”
    • Develop detailed budgets for projects upon award, using the final as-sold estimate, utilizing the standard cost code structure.
    • Review job costs to ensure correct cost codes are assigned to labor, materials, subcontractors, outside services, equipment, etc..
    • Perform necessary budget maintenance, including budget transfers and change order budgets.
    • Oversee the change management process by identifying work outside of the scope, tracking extra work, generating extra work order requests with input from operations, submit extra work order requests to the client, maintain status reports, provide updates to project management team and client, and verify all costs have been captured and invoiced.
    • Submit Requests for Information (RFIs) through the change management system to facilitate clarification of Engineering Work Orders (EWOs), procedures, and project requirements. Coordinate project teams and clients to track responses, resolve questions, and ensure accurate implementation of scope and work directives.
    • Perform labor productivity analysis utilizing earned value measurement tools.
    • Accurately track, analyze, and forecast project costs using various tools.
    • Generate, present, and review cost reports with operations management.
    • Create, update, and analyze cash flow forecasts.
    • Assist accounts receivable with project invoicing.
    • Meet with project operations personnel to review and forecast labor activities.
    • Prepare and submit monthly progress reports and exhibits to the project. management team and client for assigned projects.
    • Perform other duties or responsibilities as required or assigned.
    •  Assist project team and client with updating and maintaining project schedules, ensuring accurate timeline tracking and supporting reliable forecasting. Collaborate with stakeholders to identify schedule changes, assess impacts, and communicate updates to help maintain project alignment and forecast accuracy.
    • Perform administrative functions, including processing and verifying employee timesheets in both client and company systems. Ensure timely and accurate time entry, maintain compliance with reporting requirements, and support payroll and project cost tracking activities.
    • Assist project teams with procuring materials and rental equipment by obtaining and evaluating vendor quotes, coordinating competitive bid requests, and submitting recommendations for approval. Collaborate with company procurement teams to process purchases, ensure timely delivery of resources, and support project schedules and operational requirements.
    Qualifications:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Construction Management, Engineering or another related field required or equivalent experience may be considered.
    • 0-5+ years of Project Controls experience in construction / engineering environment
    • Proficiency in the use of software applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other database applications
    • Advanced Excel skills preferred
    • Should possess analytical skills and have knowledge of cost accounting and finance
    • Must be detail oriented
    • Must have good communication skills to interact with external and internal customers
    • Must be willing to travel and work overtime as required
    • Will be assigned to a job site for the duration of the project

    California law requires pay information in job postings. The typical hiring range for this position in California is shown below. The pay rate will depend on the successful candidate’s qualifications and prior experience, specific skill set, geographic location, internal equity, and other factors influencing pay. As such, an actual salary may fall closer to one or the other end of this range, and in certain circumstances, may fall outside the listed hiring range.

    Hiring range: $31.00 to $45.00 per hour

    In addition, full-time employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, disability benefits, life and AD&D insurance, an employee assistance program (EAP), a 401(k) plan with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), a robust wellness program and adoption assistance.   

    At Matrix, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. We encourage all whose experience aligns with the listed qualifications to apply and explore joining our organization. 

    Follow us at Matrix Service Company to view all of our open positions and for the latest news about our operating companies and our teams.

    EEO/M/F/Disability/Vets Employer 

    We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, marital status, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristic or category. 

    Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.