Technical Specialist - Cost Estimation

About the Role

The Technical Specialist responsible for Cost Estimation plays a key role in developing, delivering, managing, and maintaining a unified and consistent set of Project Services, primarily focused on Project Cost Estimating. This specialist will offer support remotely from Chennai and collaborate with teams across global centers including Manila, Cyberjaya, and Krakow. The TAO Project Services teams support functions in Downstream Manufacturing and Chemicals, Integrated Gas & New Energies, Upstream, Downstream assets, and other corporate areas of Shell.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the TAO Project Services team in the capacity of functional head for Cost Estimation, guiding frontline members on deliverable execution.
• Foster the development and mentorship of the TAO-PS community to enhance staff capabilities.
• Create detailed estimate bases and planning outlining the approach for estimate formulation.
• Formulate cost estimates throughout project phases from conceptual design to execution stage.
• Employ validated methodologies, historical benchmarks, and cost models to generate accurate estimates.
• Apply correct estimate classifications and define accuracy ranges accordingly.
• Align cost estimates with predetermined project scope, execution strategy, and timelines.
• Participate in estimate reviews, validation, and assurance processes.
• Compile benchmarking packages for comparative analysis against internal and industry data sets.
• Analyze IPA forms and reports to compare Shell projects with industry datasets.
• Determine cost contingencies using the Technical, Economical, Commercial, Organizational & Political (TECOP) profile.
• Utilize cost estimation techniques and software tools across all project delivery phases.
• Incorporate project complexity parameters in estimates, integrating essential inputs such as objectives, scope, and execution plans.
• Evaluate project scope and produce consistent estimates from Type 0 to Type 4 classifications.
• Support continuous estimate review, benchmarking with historical data, performance indicators, and IPA datasets.
• Collaborate with project leadership to enhance forecast accuracy via analysis, early warnings, decision support, and impact assessments on costs and timelines.
• Maintain project and portfolio dashboards, streamline reporting processes, manage SharePoint estimate repositories, and coordinate estimate kickoff and review sessions.
• Drive the adoption of digital and automation tools within TAO, supporting rollout, migration, quality control, and enforcing compliance with company policies and standards.

Qualifications and Experience

• Engineering degree and/or certification in Project Services Management or equivalent qualifications.
• Minimum 12 years of experience specializing in Cost Estimation within Oil & Gas, Petrochemicals, or related sectors.
• Extensive practical knowledge in Project Controls, Scheduling, Cost Engineering, Cost Estimation, and Project Management.
• Proficiency in Excel and familiarity with estimation software such as ASPEN TECH, CCET, etc.
• Preferred competency in Level 1 Estimation techniques.
• Experience leading change initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
• Strong technical expertise and capability meeting the role’s skill set requirements.
• Proven ability to manage stakeholder expectations effectively and work in multicultural environments.
• Valid Project Management certification from PMI, IPMA, or equivalent.
• Highly self-motivated individual capable of working independently without close supervision.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, stakeholders, and maintain resilience in high-pressure situations.
• Thorough understanding of business processes and adeptness in handling challenging scenarios with professionalism.

Benefits and Culture

• Personal growth aligned with contributing to global energy transitions.
• Continuous development of transferable skills to advance career prospects.
• Engagement with cutting-edge technologies, trends, and best practices.
• Collaboration with expert colleagues possessing specialized knowledge.
• An inclusive workplace culture valuing honesty, respect, and integrity.
• Encouragement of diverse applicants across all demographics, promoting inclusion in the workforce.
• Access to national and international career development opportunities.
• Wide range of training and development programs available for continual learning and skill enhancement.

Additional Information

Following application submission, candidates will receive an email with a link to complete an online assessment, which is mandatory for moving forward in the hiring process. This communication may occasionally be found in spam or junk folders. Completion of this assessment precedes further application review and selection stages.