Project Controls Director

Job description

Company Description Work with Us. Change the World. At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations. There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. Job Description AECOM is seeking a Project Controls Director to join our team in Markham, Ontario supporting major projects/program in the Transportation sector. This is a new position. The Project Controls Director is responsible for leading and overseeing all project controls functions across a portfolio of projects, including cost management, scheduling, risk management, change control, and performance reporting. This role ensures consistent application of best practices, accurate forecasting, and governance to support successful project delivery aligned with organizational objectives. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Strategy Lead and manage the Project Controls team across multiple projects or programs. Establish and implement project controls standards, processes, tools, and governance frameworks. Provide strategic direction for cost, schedule, and risk management practices. Partner with executive leadership to support business planning and capital program execution. Cost Management Oversee development and maintenance of project budgets, cost baselines, and forecasts. Ensure accurate cost tracking, variance analysis, and reporting. Lead earned value management (EVM) practices where applicable. Review and approve cost estimates, contingency strategies, and funding requirements. Scheduling & Planning Ensure development and maintenance of integrated master schedules (IMS). Establish scheduling standards and ensure alignment across all projects. Analyze schedule performance and critical path impacts. Guide mitigation strategies for schedule delays. Risk & Change Management Lead risk identification, assessment, and mitigation processes. Maintain enterprise-level risk registers and contingency plans. Oversee change management processes including change control boards (CCB). Ensure appropriate documentation and approval of scope, cost, and schedule changes. Reporting & Performance Management Provide executive-level reporting on project performance (cost, schedule, risks). Develop dashboards and KPIs to track program health. Ensure consistency, accuracy, and timeliness of reporting. Communicate key insights and recommendations to senior stakeholders. Governance & Compliance Ensure compliance with internal policies, contractual obligations, and regulatory requirements. Conduct project reviews, audits, and assurance activities. Standardize project controls procedures across departments or business units. Stakeholder Management Interface with project managers, engineering, finance, procurement, and external partners. Advise senior leadership on project performance, risks, and corrective actions. Act as the escalation point for complex project controls issues. People Management & Development Build, mentor, and develop high-performing project controls teams. Define resource requirements and support recruitment efforts. Promote a culture of continuous improvement and best practice sharing. Technical Skills Advanced proficiency in project controls software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) Strong knowledge of cost management systems and tools (e.g., SAP, EcoSys, Prism) Expertise in data analytics, reporting tools (Power BI, Tableau), and KPIs Solid understanding of contracts, procurement, and commercial management Core Competencies Strategic thinking and leadership Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and executive presentation abilities High attention to detail and data accuracy Ability to influence and drive change across complex organizations Work Environment Typically office-based and hybrid with periodic travel to project sites. May involve working across multiple time zones and high-pressure environments Success Metrics Accuracy of cost and schedule forecasts Project delivery performance against baseline (cost/schedule) Effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies Quality and timeliness of reporting Team development and retention Qualifications Minimum Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field (required) 12 Years of related experience Preferred requirements: Experience 12–15+ years of progressive experience in project controls, including leadership roles Master’s degree or MBA (preferred) Experience managing large-scale capital projects or portfolios Strong background in cost control, scheduling, and risk management Industry experience (e.g., construction, infrastructure, energy, mining, etc.) preferred Certifications (Preferred) PMP (Project Management Professional) CCP (Certified Cost Professional) PSP (Planning & Scheduling Professional) EVP (Earned Value Professional) Additional Information At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment. About AECOM AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. What makes AECOM a great place to work You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. Artificial intelligence will be used to support the screening, assessment, and selection of applicants for this role. Final hiring decisions are made by the hiring team.