Head of Cost Controls

Hughes Marino • Irvine, CA

13d • $160,000 - $210,000

About The Position

Hughes Marino is a nationally recognized, award-winning corporate real estate advisory firm specializing in representing occupiers, never landlords. Our Construction Project Management practice serves as owner's representative and third-party CM for some of the most dynamic companies in the country, guiding clients through complex projects with independent, conflict-free expertise.
We are currently seeking a Head of Cost Controls to join our Irvine team, supporting a growing portfolio of office, industrial, advanced manufacturing, and defense technology projects.
As Head of Cost Controls, you will be the person who brings structure, rigor, and financial clarity to a large and complex construction program, working from the owner's side with full independence from GC or design team interests. You will own cost control systems end-to-end, transforming complexity into actionable insights that drive executive-level decisions. This is a leadership role with direct visibility to senior clients and real influence over program outcomes.

Requirements

• 12+ years of experience in cost controls, project controls, or construction finance, with at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and maintain cost control systems and standards across complex, multi-project environments
• Strong knowledge of WBS structures, CSI codes, EAC methodologies, contingency frameworks, and change management workflows
• Experience implementing and/or managing PMIS platforms (Procore, e-Builder, InEight, or similar)
• Ability to present financial data clearly and compellingly to senior executive audiences
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills in cross-functional teams; comfortable navigating and presenting to project teams, business line leaders, and C-suite audiences
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with Power BI or similar reporting tools preferred
• Proficient in Bluebeam and Microsoft Project
• Local candidates only: Orange County
• Bachelor's degree required in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Hardware Technology, Advanced Manufacturing projects, Secure/SCIF/ICD-705, and/or Maritime is a strong plus -- candidates with this background will be prioritized
• Self-directed and deadline-driven, with the ability to manage multiple active projects simultaneously
• CCP or EVP certification a plus

Responsibilities

• Own and continuously improve cost control systems and procedures to keep projects on budget and financially efficient
• Oversee project budgets, maintain forecast integrity, and manage financial reporting throughout the project lifecycle
• Conduct regular cost analyses to identify savings opportunities, track expenditures, and recommend adjustments
• Identify financial risks and enforce change control governance to mitigate cost overruns and protect baseline integrity
• Work closely with project managers, contractors, and clients to align project and financial goals; integrate outputs with PMIS
• Run the monthly cost reporting cycle including variance thresholds, cash flow formats, and executive summaries

Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience ranging from $160,000-$210,000
• Competitive benefits package and long-term career growth within Hughes Marino
• Periodic travel to project sites as required

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level