About the Opportunity
Based in Henderson, the Project Cost Controller plays a key role in supporting the successful delivery of complex maritime projects. You will provide cost control, analysis, and reporting to ensure projects are delivered within budget and aligned to financial objectives.
Working within Austal’s Programs function, you will contribute to cost tracking, forecasting, and performance reporting in an Earned Value Management (EVM) environment. This role offers the opportunity to partner with Project Managers, Finance, Engineering, and Operations to provide insights that support informed decision-making and improve project outcomes.
This is an excellent opportunity for a developing professional with 2–3 years’ experience in cost control or project finance, looking to grow their career in a structured project delivery environment.
About Austal
Austal is Australia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor; and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators with operations spanning Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam. With operations spanning multiple sites, Austal offers diverse career opportunities in trades, maintenance, engineering support, project services, corporate functions and operational delivery.
Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, Austal is leading a new era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia. We’re driving innovation, supporting sovereign capability, and creating long-term opportunities for Australian industry and workers.
Learn more at austal.com/ssa
This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.
What’s Involved
- Support the monitoring and analysis of project cost performance, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities
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Assist in tracking actual costs against budgets and forecasts, highlighting variances
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Contribute to the preparation and maintenance of project cost budgets and Cost Breakdown Structures (CBS)
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Provide inputs to cost reporting to support timely and accurate project performance insights
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Assist in Earned Value Management (EVM) reporting, including KPI tracking and variance analysis
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Document and analyse cost drivers across scope, schedule, and resources to support decision-making
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Collaborate with Project Managers and Finance to maintain alignment between budgets and financial objectives
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Support adherence to cost control processes and systems in line with organisational standards
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Contribute to continuous improvement of cost control practices and reporting
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Work closely with cross-functional teams including Finance, Procurement, Engineering, and Operations
You’ll Need
Essential
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Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Engineering, or a related field
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2–3 years’ experience in cost control, project controls, or financial analysis within a project-based environment
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Understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis principles
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Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy
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Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and exposure to financial or project reporting tools
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Ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders
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Eligibility to obtain a Defence Security Clearance
Desirable
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Exposure to Earned Value Management (EVM) principles
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Experience in defence, construction, manufacturing, or similar industries
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Familiarity with systems such as SAP, IFS, or Power BI
Why Join Us?
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Competitive compensation and benefits package.
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Professional development and training opportunities.
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A supportive and dynamic work environment.
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Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation.
At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.
Learn more at Careers at Austal Australia | Austal: Australia
