Overview
A Project Controls Manager in the mining sector is responsible for ensuring that mining projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. This role involves overseeing planning, cost estimation, scheduling, and performance tracking to optimize project outcomes. By coordinating closely with project managers, engineers, and financial teams, the Project Controls Manager ensures efficient resource allocation, cost control, and risk management.
Mining projects are often complex and capital-intensive, making the role of a Project Controls Manager essential. From managing initial feasibility studies to ensuring compliance during execution, this position requires strong analytical and leadership skills. As global demand for minerals continues to rise, project controls jobs in the mining sector are in high demand. This is especially true in the growing North American market.
Daily Tasks
Project Scheduling & Planning:
The Project Controls Manager develops detailed project schedules to ensure all activities are completed on time. By planning out key activities, resource needs, and deadlines, they minimize delays and ensure the smooth operation of mining projects.
Project Cost Estimation & Control:
Cost control is a core responsibility. The Project Controls Manager works closely with financial analysts to forecast budgets and track expenditures. They use project cost estimation techniques to anticipate financial needs and prevent cost overruns. This ensures the project remains financially viable from start to finish.
Progress Monitoring & Reporting:
Using specialized software, the Project Controls Manager continuously tracks project performance. They generate detailed reports for stakeholders, summarizing progress against key performance indicators (KPIs) and identifying any potential delays or budget issues.
Risk Management:
Mining projects face numerous risks, including fluctuating commodity prices, regulatory challenges, and environmental concerns. The Project Controls Manager identifies these risks early and implements mitigation strategies to prevent costly disruptions.
Team Collaboration & Leadership:
The Project Controls Manager coordinates with cross-functional teams such as engineers, procurement specialists, and contractors. This ensures that all parts of the project are working towards the same goals. Leadership skills are essential, as the Project Controls Manager must align teams to meet project deadlines and budget constraints.
Regulatory Compliance:
Mining projects must adhere to strict safety and environmental regulations. The Project Controls Manager ensures that all project activities comply with local, regional, and international standards to minimize regulatory risks.
Skills
Data Analysis & Forecasting:
Project Controls Managers must analyze large datasets to forecast costs, monitor schedules, and track performance. This helps them anticipate and mitigate issues before they escalate.
Project Cost Estimation & Budgeting:
Accurate cost estimation is critical to the success of mining projects. The PCM must ensure that budgets are realistic, and expenditures are monitored to prevent cost overruns.
Communication & Leadership:
Effective communication is key for aligning cross-functional teams and ensuring that stakeholders are kept informed. Leadership skills are necessary to drive project success and manage team dynamics.
Risk Management:
Identifying and mitigating risks early on helps the PCM prevent costly delays or disruptions in mining projects.
Proficiency with Software Tools:
A PCM uses project management software such as Primavera P6, MS Project, and cost control platforms to track project data and ensure accuracy in scheduling and budgeting.
Work Settings
Mine Sites:
Project Controls Managers often work on-site to oversee project execution. This gives them real-time access to track progress, address issues, and ensure that project controls are adhered to.
Corporate Offices:
A significant portion of project planning and financial analysis takes place in corporate offices, where the Project Controls Manager prepares reports, conducts budget forecasts, and meets with senior management.
Remote or Hybrid Work:
Although rare, project controls jobs now offer remote or hybrid working environments, allowing the Project Controls Manager to oversee multiple projects across various locations. Digital tools and project management software enable remote collaboration with teams on-site.
Types of Project Controls Managers in the Mining Sector
Project controls managers can have various job titles. Some common ones are:
Cost Control Manager:
Specializes in budgeting and financial tracking. Cost Control Managers ensure that mining projects adhere to their financial goals and find opportunities for cost-saving without sacrificing quality.
Scheduling Manager:
Focuses on creating and maintaining project schedules, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that resources are used efficiently.
Risk Management Specialist:
Responsible for identifying and mitigating risks throughout the project lifecycle. In the mining industry, these risks often include environmental factors, regulatory challenges, and market volatility.
Contract & Procurement Manager:
Oversees vendor contracts and procurement processes, ensuring that materials and services are sourced at competitive rates while meeting the quality and timeline requirements of the project.
Earned Value Manager (EVM):
Specializes in tracking project performance using earned value management techniques. They measure progress against cost and schedule baselines to ensure the project stays on track.
Compensation
The salary of a Project Controls Manager in the mining industry can vary depending on the size of the project and the manager’s experience. Salaried professionals can expect around $200K USD per year.
This number can be increased significantly in a contract role. Brunel specializes in recruiting for project-based mining vacancies of some of the biggest names in mining. Our expertise spans 120+ countries and a track record of over 45 years. We work to vouch for specialists and negotiate contracts that favor the interests of all parties.
Below is an approximate hourly pay scale for a project controls manager in a contract role:
| Entry-Level (0-3 years) | $50 - $75 per hour |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | $75 - $100 per hour |
| Senior-Level (7+ years) | $100 - $140 per hour |
| Director-Level (10+ years) | $140+ per hour |
Project Controls Manager Job Description & Career Paths
Early-Career:
Project Controls Managers often start their careers as project controls engineers or cost controllers, learning the fundamentals of project management through tasks such as budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. At this stage, professionals typically assist senior managers while gaining experience in large-scale mining projects.
Mid-Career:
In mid-career, a Project Controls Manager may take on more responsibility by managing smaller projects independently or serving as a deputy for larger, more complex operations. At this stage, specialization in cost control or scheduling is common. Many professionals seek out certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or CCP (Certified Cost Professional) to advance their careers.
Senior-Level:
Senior Project Controls Managers are responsible for overseeing multiple mining projects or large-scale operations. They work closely with upper management to implement strategic plans for cost control, risk management, and schedule adherence. Leadership and mentoring skills are crucial as they guide junior team members.
Director-Level:
At the director level, Project Controls Managers move into high-level strategic roles where they oversee entire departments or portfolios of mining projects. Responsibilities include long-term financial planning, high-level risk management, and ensuring that projects align with the company’s overall goals.
Best Certifications for Project Controls Managers
Earning the best project management certifications can significantly enhance a career as a Project Controls Manager.
Some top certifications for this role include:
PMP (Project Management Professional): This certification is globally recognized and demonstrates expertise in managing projects across various industries, including mining.
CCP (Certified Cost Professional): Offered by AACE International, this certification focuses on cost estimation and control, making it ideal for PCMs responsible for financial oversight.
PSP (Planning & Scheduling Professional): This certification is designed for professionals specializing in project scheduling and time management.
EVP (Earned Value Professional): For those focusing on earned value management techniques, EVP certification is beneficial for ensuring project performance stays aligned with cost and schedule baselines.
Summary
A career as a Project Controls Manager in the mining sector offers the opportunity to manage large, complex projects that are critical to the global supply chain. By focusing on project cost estimation, schedule management, and risk mitigation, PCMs ensure that mining operations are completed efficiently and within budget. As demand for minerals continues to grow, the need for qualified professionals in project controls jobs is rising.
Understanding the Project Controls Manager job description and pursuing certifications such as PMP, CCP, or PSP can significantly boost career prospects. Senior Project Controls Managers are highly compensated for their expertise, particularly in managing large, multi-billion-dollar mining projects.
