Project Cost Analyst

Manifest Solutions is currently seeking a Project Cost Analyst for an onsite position in Columbus, OH.

• Coordinates project cost analysis and controls across multiple projects, supporting Project Managers and teams with minimal supervision and strong independent judgment.
• Oversees cost reporting, monitors budgets for accuracy, and collaborates with project teams to apply project management best practices.
• Responsibilities include budget input, ongoing forecasting (including accrual forecasting), variance analysis, cash management awareness, and communication with internal/external stakeholders.
• Drives process optimization.
• Familiar with procurement processes and their impact on cost and schedule management.
• Coordinate project meetings and assist PMs with documentation and planning relating to project financials.
• Prepare investment forecasts, cash flows, variance analysis, cost tracking, SOX support, and estimate vs actual reviews.
• Implement resource/cost plans, baseline budgets, work plans, and project breakdown structures as it relates to project schedule activities.
• Maintain project records, manage unvouchered liabilities, and oversee the full work order lifecycle from creation to closeout.
• Support contracting methods, procurement activities, requisitions, bidding, cost reviews, and tracking.
• Communicate budget and cost information with project stakeholders.
• Work independently to solve moderately complex problems using technical and analytical skills.
• Develop and compile measurable KPIs to track forecast accuracy.
• Support and administer project/work management standards and governance.
• Recommend improvements that enhance project and organizational performance.
• Coordinate with contractors, vendors, and suppliers to gather and integrate performance and cost data.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree + 4 years experience, or Associate’s degree + 6 years experience in related fields (Accounting, Business, Construction Mgmt, Engineering, Finance, Technology, Project Mgmt).
• Experience includes utility operations, project management, cost tracking, forecasting (including accruals), budgeting, accounting principles, or construction.
  
• Strong time management, organization, accuracy, and communication skills
  
• Proficiency in MS Office, specifically excel
  
• Effective team collaboration
• Experience with cost management systems (Ecosys)
• Strong creativity and problem solving; ability to work across organizational levels.