Lead Cost Controller

About IPS

IPS is a global front-runner specializing in developing innovative consulting, architecture, engineering, project controls, procurement, construction management, and commissioning, qualification, and validation (CQV) solutions, mainly for technically complex life sciences facilities. As part of Berkshire Hathaway, IPS operates worldwide with 3,000 professionals across over 45 offices in 17 countries.

Position Overview

The Lead Cost Controller will manage the full spectrum of cost control activities throughout the engineering, procurement, construction, and qualification (EPCQ) lifecycle. This role is based in Cork, Ireland and demands collaboration in a dynamic project environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage the project budget, invoicing, change control, and forecast costs during the entire EPCQ lifecycle.
• Engage actively with estimating, procurement, and project management to coordinate scope, define work packages, develop contracts, and perform bid analysis.
• Create and assess project control budgets with inputs from clients, vendors, contractors, and internal teams.
• Work jointly with the project team on contractor statements of value (SOVs) and validate progress, invoicing, and payments.
• Ensure alignment between project forecasts, current funding, and billing through coordination with accounting.
• Maintain complete backup documentation for all project phases.
• Control and manage changes rigorously through the change control process.
• Track cost trends, verify pricing changes, and process change orders for approval and contract updates.
• Oversee the integrated cost reporting platform's operation and ensure data integrity.
• Generate detailed reports covering budgets, changes, purchase orders, expenditures, anticipated costs, and forecasts.
• Create visualizations and graphical outputs to enhance team communication.
• Coordinate with scheduling teams to align cost and schedule data effectively.
• Support constructability reviews and value engineering collaboratively.
• Continuously update cash flow projections, staffing plans, and contingency budgeting.
• Provide financial analysis, earned value management, and cost performance reporting.
• Upon project completion, compile historical cost data and lessons learned for future reference.
• Contribute to organizational improvement by enhancing processes, systems, and knowledge sharing among teams.

Qualifications and Skills

• Significant experience in project controls and cost management on capital projects.
• Strong understanding of EPCQ processes and engineering/construction methodologies.
• Proficient in project control principles covering initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closeout; including billing, estimating, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Advanced computer skills especially with integrated construction management and cost reporting software such as Prolog.
• Experience using data management tools like MS Excel and MS Access.
• Excellent communication, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize large volumes of information efficiently to meet deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.

Preferred Experience

• Background in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries.
• Professional certifications such as PMI or AACEI.
• Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.

Additional Information

Interviews are conducted either in-person or virtually, and video participation is mandatory. IPS is an equal opportunity employer, valuing diversity without discrimination based on protected characteristics. The company also does not engage with external recruiters without a formal agreement.