Overview
Hitachi Rail is looking for an enthusiastic self-motivated Principal Cost Controller who thrives in a fast-paced environment. The role is based in Brisbane, Australia and involves performing cost control functions and implementing and maintaining associated systems and processes. The Principal Cost Controller provides budget allocation, cost forecasting, cashflow forecasting, cost review and variance analysis, and cost reporting across the program, advising delivery teams.
Responsibilities
* Project Controls & ETCS Delivery Oversight
o Lead end-to-end project control activities across the ETCS program, ensuring alignment with company best practices.
o Implement robust cost control, change management, and performance reporting frameworks across design, installation, testing, and commissioning phases.
o Maintain governance over project baselines, ensuring effective tracking of scope, schedule, and cost performance.
* Cost Management & Financial Planning
o Develop, manage, and optimise project budgets, cost plans, and lifecycle forecasts for ETCS delivery packages.
o Prepare accurate cost forecasts and cashflow profiles aligned with project milestones and funding requirements.
o Perform cost risk analysis and scenario modelling, ensuring proactive identification and mitigation of financial risks.
* Data Analysis & Performance Reporting
o Analyse project financial and operational data to track variances between baseline estimates and actual costs.
o Deliver high-quality reporting to senior leadership, enabling informed decision-making and performance optimisation.
* Commercial & Contract Management
o Review and assess tender pricing schedules, contractor forecasts, payment applications, and variation claims within ETCS contracts.
o Provide expert commercial advice to ensure value for money and contractual compliance.
o Support negotiation of variations, claims, and dispute resolution in collaboration with commercial and legal teams.
* Stakeholder & Client Interface
o Act as the primary commercial and financial interface between the project team, client, and corporate finance stakeholders.
o Support transparent reporting and alignment with client expectations and governance requirements.
o Collaborate closely with engineering, delivery, and procurement teams to ensure integrated project outcomes.
* Act as Finance Manager for Alliance programme
o Deputise for the Finance Manager and progressively assume leadership of financial management activities.
o Drive financial governance, compliance, and reporting excellence across the ETCS program.
Skills & Experience
* Minimum 10 years\' experience in a similar role and strong experience in controlling.
* Worked in cost plus environment and can manage forecasting accordingly.
* Experience of planning and financial control in a complex project environment.
* Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
* Advanced MS Excel, SAP, and Primavera P6 skills.
* Knowledge of Rail / Transportation / Engineering sectors highly desirable.
* Having CPA/CA would be an added advantage.
* Demonstrates perseverance, patience and commitment for long term success.
* Advanced expertise in project controls, cost management, and financial forecasting.
* Strong commercial acumen and contract management experience.
* Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
* Stakeholder management and influencing skills at senior level.
What we offer
* Be part of a Global Company that offers a great work life balance.
* Many opportunities to progress your career with training and development available.
* Salary Continuance Insurance
* At Hitachi Rail, there is a place for everyone.
* We welcome and value differences in background, age, gender, sexuality, family status, disability, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and world view.
* It is our commitment to create an inclusive workplace – we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr