Cost Controller

Want to be part of a major project that will bring about positive change for an entire community? Lismore City Council’s ‘Flood Restoration Portfolio’ (FRP) can make that possible. The bold initiative represents the single largest public infrastructure restoration project ever undertaken by local government in NSW. 

Created in response to the devastating 2022 natural disaster, the FRP’s remit encompasses the restoration of the city’s public assets – roads, bridges, theatres, galleries, and sporting facilities, alongside the repair and enhancement of essential wastewater, waste management, and flood resilience infrastructure.

 The FRP is assembling a local and global talent team to deliver a stronger, more resilient Lismore. We welcome individuals who bring fresh perspectives that will help enable our vision for a vibrant community. 

Lismore’s Northern Rivers location fosters an ideal work-life balance. It offers lush farmland, beautiful parks, a World Heritage-listed rainforest to explore, great restaurants, a diverse arts and cultural scene, and more—all just a stone’s throw from the Gold Coast, Ballina, and Byron Bay. 

Today, Lismore is flourishing, and it's the perfect time to embrace and celebrate everything that makes the regional city so unique, while also being directly involved in shaping its future. 

Are you ready to be part of something extraordinary?

Are you an exceptional, experienced Cost Controller able to provide critical support to delivery teams?  Responsible for monitoring project and operational costs, analysing variances, and delivering accurate financial reporting to support effective budget management and financial control. This position also involves regular collaboration with customers and project teams, so strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills are essential. 

What we can offer you

• Landmark Lismore projects -ready to go valued at $1 billion + in funding.
• Career-enhancing/changing opportunity to be involved in the largest reconstruction project in local government history.
• Strong team culture, working alongside an experienced and supportive team and management.

 What we trust you to deliver 

• Assist in developing and implementing integrated control tools and processes across scheduling, cost, scope, and risk management to support the successful delivery of multiple large-scale programs.
• Oversee program budgets, forecasts, and expenditure tracking; ensure alignment with financial objectives and contractual requirements.
• Track and analyse project costs, including expenditures, budgets, and forecasts, to ensure alignment with project objectives and financial targets.
• Prepare accurate and timely financial forecasts that highlight potential risks and opportunities. 
• Review contracts and agreements to ensure adherence to financial terms and conditions.
• Identify potential financial risks associated with project delays, cost overruns, etc. Develop and implement strategies to mitigate these risks.
•  Monitor and track costs throughout the project lifecycle, identifying variances and recommending corrective actions. Interpret operating results to assess the financial position of the project and make recommendations for cost reduction and profit improvement.
• Use financial modelling to predict project financial performance outcomes. Analyse variances between actual and budgeted or forecasted costs and recommend corrective actions.

 What you'll need to be successful

• Relevant tertiary qualifications (or equivalent experience) in Financial Management, Engineering, or Business Management
• Has the skills, capability, and willingness to analyse problems and evaluate alternatives with a focus on collaborative problem-solving.
• Ensures projects and resourcing plans are aligned to accountabilities and responsibilities.
• Engages and consults using well-developed oral and written communication skills, with the capability to influence, listen to others, put forward ideas, and encourage the views of others.
• Strong experience in a similar site-based construction and Local Government role.
• The ability to analyse financial data, interpret cost reports, and forecast expenses is crucial. A keen eye for detail helps identify discrepancies and potential areas for cost savings.
• Proficiency in financial principles, budgeting, and accounting practices is essential for effective cost control and financial reporting.

Please review the position description and use your resume and application responses in the application form below to demonstrate your ability to fulfill the position's responsibilities

Additional details

• Salary: Attractive remuneration for the right candidate. 
• Term Contract: Contracted hours of work 70 hours a fortnight, max term-based appointment until 30 June 2027.
• Closing date: Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate pool is established.
• Location: The position will be primarily at our Flood Portfolio Office in Lismore. Flexible work options are available, working within operational requirements. 
• Conditions of Employment: Conditions of employment are in the Local Government (State) Award and relevant Council policy, procedures, and agreements.
• Pre-employment Screening: Prior to employment, pre-employment checks may be conducted, including health assessments, validation of the right to work in Australia, validation of qualifications and licenses, criminal history checks, psychometric assessments, and referee checks.
• Future Opportunities: This recruitment exercise may be used to fill vacancies and establish a merit list for future opportunities within six months.
• Previous applicants: need not apply. 
• Contact: For more information about this opportunity, please don't hesitate to contact Jennifer McEwen, HR Business Partner, at 0428 522 907.

This recruitment exercise may be used for future vacancies, and within six months, a merit list for future opportunities may be established.

Lismore City Council is a proud employer of a diverse workforce, welcoming applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities. We are committed to fostering a diverse, flexible, and inclusive workplace that reflects the community we serve. We also welcome discussions about how our roles can be undertaken flexibly. Adjustments can be made throughout the application and selection process to support disabled applicants. If you would like to discuss adjustments, don't hesitate to get in touch with the People and Culture team on 02 6625 0500 or email people@lismore.nsw.gov.au