Project Controls Specialist

Yates is proud to be an industry leader in engineering and construction services. We specialize in front-end loading (FEL) studies and detailed design projects, primarily serving the pulp and paper industry. Our success depends on hiring individuals who value safety, integrity, and collaboration, and who are passionate about delivering exceptional results for our clients.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Project Controls Specialist to join our engineering project controls team. This role is critical in supporting engineering-driven projects through effective planning, scheduling, and cost management. Unlike traditional construction scheduling roles, this position requires a deep understanding of the engineering phased approach—including FEL2, FEL3, and detailed design phases.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain Level 1, 2, and 3 engineering schedules in Primavera P6 (MS Project experience considered as well).
• Collaborate with design leads to obtain accurate progress updates and resolve discrepancies.
• Monitor and analyze project performance against schedules and budgets.
• Outside of P6, prepare internal and external reports on project status, including earned value, work-hour forecasting, change management and spend curves.

What We’re Looking For:

• Engineering experience in front-end and detailed design phases (FEL2, FEL3, detail design).
• Strong understanding of engineering workflows and deliverables.
• Ability to proactively engage with project managers and design leads to obtain information and drive accountability.
• Experience with Primavera P6 (or willingness to learn quickly); MS Project familiarity is helpful.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to learn new tools and processes quickly.
• Preferred: B.S. in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Someone with engineering scheduling experience or exposure to engineering projects who can adapt to project controls responsibilities.
• A motivated engineer seeking a future on a project management career path without extensive travel.
• We value initiative, problem-solving, and the confidence to push back when necessary to keep projects on track.

Additional Details:

• Location: Birmingham office
• Experience: 7+ years preferred (we prioritize engineering knowledge over decades of scheduling experience).
• Industries: Pulp & Paper, Chemical, Power, Heavy Industrial.