what is a project controller?

Project controllers work in tandem with project managers to ensure that each project runs smoothly. Once they understand the goals of a project, the project manager determines a financial plan and schedule and monitors them throughout the duration.

If a project starts to deviate from the initial plan, the project controller provides guidance about how to get it back on track. It’s primarily an advisory role yet an essential one that helps ensure both scheduling and finances go as anticipated.

There are project controllers operating in a range of industries, and it’s typically advisable to have some knowledge about the industry in which you’re involved. For instance, if you’re working in construction, knowledge about that industry and how it operates is recommended.

Although being a project manager is an advisory role, many skills are needed and many tasks required. Finance knowledge is vital, and you’ll also have to know how to use various computer programs that allow you to track and monitor the finances and schedules of the project and complete budgets and reports. Clear written and verbal communication is also necessary to be able to properly express your findings.

Would working as a project controller suit your finance and scheduling skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a project controller role.

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average project controller salary

The average salary for a project controller in the United States is $45 per hour or about $95,370. The average bonus is $1,266. Shift differential pay will also boost the hourly compensation.

As with most jobs, the more experience in a particular position, in this case as a project controller, the more your salary would likely increase. Entry levels earn less, while senior levels earn more. At least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as finance, is expected for this position.

Wondering what you can earn as a project controller? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a project controller is.

Group of people having a meeting, in a room with glass windows
Group of people having a meeting, in a room with glass windows
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types of project controllers

In any industry, ranging from construction to technology, a project controller is typically referred to as such. There are no subtypes or subtitles regarding this position.

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working as a project controller

Working as a project controller is a challenging and rewarding career. Each project is different, allowing for versatility in many capacities, from one project to the next. Read on to learn what you can expect when you work in this field.

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project controller skills and education

Due to the nature of the project controller's responsibilities, it’s ideal to have an educational background in finance. Having a bachelor’s degree in a related area, such as finance or accounting, is acceptable as a starting point. However, having an advanced degree, like a master’s in finance, is even better.

One of the best ways to get into the industry is to look for internships and/or volunteering opportunities. This provides relevant, hands-on experience beyond the educational setting and is a great way to gain valuable professional knowledge about the industry.

skills and competencies

In addition to having a degree in a related field, various skills and competencies could help you land a job as a project controller. The more skills you can develop, especially if you’re able to provide relevant and concrete examples of how you utilized and/or obtained those skills, the better it is for landing a project controller job.

For example, you can list skills and relevant courses you took, certifications you obtained, or specific impressive achievements from a previous finance job you held, such as if you helped lead a team of workers. Skills and competencies that are highly beneficial for a project controller position include:

  • organizational skills
  • effective leadership
  • stellar communication one-on-one and to a team
  • problem-solving skills
  • ability to multitask
  • being a team player
  • analytical skills
  • time management
  • computer skills in relevant programs and systems
  • desire to stay current in local and global finance matters
  • interest in one or more specific industries (e.g., construction)
two male professionals having a meeting
two male professionals having a meeting
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FAQs about working as a project controller

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about project controllers.

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