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If you’ve Googled “Project Controller job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of articles that all look the same: dry bullet points, vague responsibilities, and zero insight into what actually makes a candidate hit “apply.”
The problem? Generic job posts don’t attract great candidates—they repel them. A copy-paste list of duties doesn’t show top talent why your role matters, what your company stands for, or why they should choose you over the hundreds of other employers hiring.
But here’s the good news: writing a Project Controller job description that stands out isn’t about using fancy HR jargon—it’s about being clear, human, and intentional.
Before we dive in, if you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . That will give you the foundation. In this article, we’ll take those same principles and apply them specifically to the Project Controller role—so you can create a job post that doesn’t just fill a seat, but actually brings in the right person to keep your projects on time, on budget, and on track.
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What the Project Controller Role Actually Is
So, what does a Project Controller actually do?
In plain terms, a Project Controller is the financial navigator of your projects. They track budgets, monitor costs, create reports, and make sure every dollar spent moves the project in the right direction. Think of them as the person who keeps projects financially healthy—ensuring they stay on time, on budget, and aligned with business goals.
But here’s the part most job descriptions miss: Project Controllers aren’t just “number crunchers.” The best ones are communicators and problem-solvers. They work closely with project managers, finance teams, and stakeholders to flag risks early, adjust plans when needed, and keep everyone aligned.
In other words: a great Project Controller is both analytical and people-focused—they turn raw data into actionable insight, and they help leadership make smarter, faster decisions.
Two Great Project Controller Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential
✅ Job Description Template 1: Experienced Project Controller
📌 Job Title: Project Controller – Keep Renewable Projects On Time & On Budget at EverGrid Engineering
💼 Location: Hybrid — Denver, CO (2–3 days on-site)
🕒 Type: Full-Time | $85,000–$105,000 base + bonus
🎥 A Quick Word From Our Hiring Manager
(Watch: Loom video from our Head of Project Delivery — link here)
Who We Are
EverGrid Engineering is a 180-person EPC firm building utility-scale renewable projects across the Mountain West. Since 2012, we’ve delivered over 3 GW of solar and storage capacity, partnering with developers and utilities to bring reliable, clean energy online. We’re a detail-driven, jobsite-respecting team that treats schedules and budgets as promises, not suggestions.
Our Culture
We’re builders who care about precision and follow-through. We prefer candor over politics, checklists over chaos, and collaboration over heroics. You’ll work with project managers, field teams, and finance to keep projects financially healthy — and we’ll back you with modern tools and a leadership team that listens.
What You’ll Do
- Own project financials: budgets, forecasts, cost-to-complete, cash flow
- Track actuals vs. plan; flag variances early and recommend corrections
- Build monthly project reports for PMs, Finance, and Execs (Power BI)
- Partner with PMs on change orders, subcontractor invoices, and risk registers
- Maintain compliance with internal controls and client requirements
- Tools you’ll touch: Procore, Oracle NetSuite, Power BI, Excel (Power Query)
What We’re Looking For
- 3–5+ years in project controlling / project accounting (EPC, construction, or energy preferred)
- Strong budgeting, forecasting, and cost control fundamentals
- Clear communicator with stakeholder management chops
- Bachelor’s in Finance/Accounting/Business (CPA/CMA a plus)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You like turning messy project data into clear decisions
- You enjoy partnering with PMs and influencing outcomes
- You want your work to directly protect margins and timelines on real-world builds
Perks & Benefits
- $85,000–$105,000 base + annual performance bonus
- Medical, dental, vision (company covers 80% of premiums)
- 401(k) with 4% match
- 20 days PTO + 10 paid holidays
- Phone + home-office stipend; laptop provided
- Learning budget ($1,500/yr) + certification support (CMA/PMI)
- Travel reimbursed for site visits (typically <10%)
Our Hiring Process
We review every application within 7–10 days. Shortlisted candidates complete a brief Workscreen evaluation and a 45-minute panel. Finalists do a practical case (budget variance + mitigation plan). We respect your time and communicate at every step.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen so we can focus on skills, not just résumés: [Insert Workscreen link].
We reply to every applicant.
✅ Job Description Template 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train
📌 Job Title: Junior Project Controller — Learn & Grow in Clean Energy at EverGrid Engineering
💼 Location: Hybrid — Denver, CO (1–2 days on-site)
🕒 Type: Full-Time | $55,000–$65,000 base
🎥 A Quick Word From Our Hiring Manager
(Watch: Loom video — “What success looks like in your first 90 days” — link here)
Who We Are
At EverGrid Engineering, we build large-scale solar and storage projects that power communities. We’re a practical, sleeves-rolled-up EPC team that believes great Project Controllers are developed, not just hired. If you’re detail-oriented, curious, and love working with numbers, we’ll train you on the rest.
Our Culture
We’re hands-on, supportive, and big on mentorship. You’ll sit with experienced controllers and PMs, learn our cost systems, and contribute to live projects from week one — with real feedback and clear growth paths.
What You’ll Do
- Support project budgets, actuals tracking, and monthly reporting
- Reconcile invoices, POs, and change orders with PMs and vendors
- Help prepare forecasts and cost-to-complete with guidance
- Build dashboards and reports in Excel/Power BI
- Shadow senior controllers on risk reviews and exec readouts
What We’re Looking For
- Degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Engineering (or equivalent experience)
- Solid Excel (lookups, pivots); Power BI is a plus
- Organized, coachable, and comfortable asking questions
- Internship or project experience helpful but not required
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You want a finance role with visible impact on real projects
- You learn fast and enjoy collaborating with PMs and field teams
- You’re looking for a path into senior controlling or project management
Perks & Benefits
- $55,000–$65,000 base + performance bonus eligibility
- Medical, dental, vision (company covers 80% of premiums)
- 401(k) with 4% match
- 18 days PTO + 10 paid holidays
- Mentorship program + structured 12-week ramp plan
- Annual learning stipend ($1,000/yr) + exam fee reimbursement
- Flexible hybrid schedule; commuter benefits
Our Hiring Process
We reply to all applicants within 7–10 days. Shortlist → Workscreen skills check → team interview → practical exercise (guided budget variance). We make decisions quickly and give clear feedback.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert Workscreen link].
Every application is reviewed; you’ll hear from us either way.
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Breakdown of Why These Project Controller Job Posts Work
So why do these Project Controller job posts stand out compared to the generic ones you see everywhere else? Let’s break it down.
1. Clear, Specific Titles
- Instead of “Project Controller” or “Junior Controller,” both posts add context: “Keep Renewable Projects On Time & On Budget” or “Learn & Grow in Clean Energy.”
- These titles instantly signal mission and opportunity — not just role. That attracts candidates who care about the impact of their work, not just a paycheck.
2. Video From Hiring Manager
- Adding a Loom video gives a face and voice to the job post.
- It makes the opportunity feel real, approachable, and transparent. Few companies do this, so it sets your post apart.
3. Warm, Contextual Introductions
- Both posts start by telling a story about the company and the role’s impact.
- Instead of dry “EverGrid Engineering is seeking a Project Controller,” the intro highlights what the company builds and why the role matters.
- This creates emotional connection right away.
4. Culture Shines Through
- The descriptions of EverGrid’s values (“candor over politics, collaboration over heroics”) are memorable and human.
- Candidates get a sense of what working here feels like, not just what they’ll do. That’s culture in action.
5. Transparent Salary & Perks
- Both posts include salary ranges, benefits, PTO, and perks.
- Transparency builds trust — and discourages mismatched applicants.
- Clear perks like mentorship programs, stipends, or certification support make the roles more attractive.
6. Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- These sections pitch the candidate experience, not just the employer’s needs.
- They show the “so what” — why the role matters to the person applying.
7. Respectful Hiring Process
- Both posts promise applicants will hear back, outline clear next steps, and show respect for their time.
- In a world where candidates often get ghosted, this is a powerful differentiator.
8. Skill-Based Application Process
- Using Workscreen signals that applicants will be evaluated fairly, based on skills and performance — not just keywords on a résumé.
- This makes high-quality candidates more likely to apply, because they feel their effort will be rewarded.
👉 Together, these elements transform a job description from a “checklist formality” into a recruiting tool that attracts thoughtful, motivated, and aligned candidates.
Example of a Bad Project Controller Job Description (And Why It Fails)
❌ Bad Job Post Example
📌 Job Title: Project Controller
💼 Company: Global Infrastructure Partners
🕒 Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are looking for a Project Controller to monitor costs, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with financial standards. The ideal candidate will have relevant experience in project accounting and be able to work independently.
Responsibilities
- Track budgets and costs
- Prepare financial reports
- Ensure compliance with policies and standards
- Support project managers with reporting
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field
- 3–5 years of experience in project controlling or accounting
- Proficiency in Excel and financial software
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@gip.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- Generic Title
“Project Controller” is technically correct, but it’s lifeless. It doesn’t hint at the company’s mission, industry, or why the role matters. - Cold Introduction
The job summary is bland, with no mention of the company’s impact, culture, or why the role exists. Candidates get no sense of the bigger picture. - No Salary or Benefits
Leaving out compensation details feels outdated and signals a lack of transparency. Top candidates won’t waste time applying without knowing if it fits their expectations. - Responsibilities Are Too Broad
The list is so generic it could apply to any financial role. There’s no detail on how this Project Controller impacts projects or stakeholders. - Zero Culture or Human Touch
There’s no mention of the team, values, or what it’s like to work here. It feels like a formality, not an opportunity. - Dismissive Hiring Process
Ending with “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and disrespectful to applicants. It implies their effort might vanish into a black hole. - Weak Call to Action
“Send your resume and cover letter” is transactional and uninspiring. There’s no sense of excitement, no personal invitation, no reason to hit apply.
👉 In short: this post checks the minimum boxes, but it doesn’t sell the opportunity. A top candidate scrolling through LinkedIn will skim this and move on instantly.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Even after writing a solid Project Controller job description, there are a few advanced touches that can take it from “good” to “unforgettable.” These small details show respect for candidates, build trust, and help you attract the kind of people who care about joining a thoughtful company.
1. Add an Important Security & Privacy Notice
Fraudulent job postings are on the rise, and candidates are wary. Show them you care about their safety:
“We will never ask you for payment, banking details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”
This not only reassures applicants but also builds credibility.
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
High performers value balance. Explicitly mention vacation, PTO, or flex options:
“Enjoy up to 20 PTO days + flex Fridays, so you can recharge and bring your best to work.”
This small addition can dramatically improve response rates.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Top talent isn’t just looking for a job — they’re looking for career momentum. If you invest in employees, say it clearly:
“We invest in your growth with a $1,500 annual learning stipend, certification support, and mentorship from senior leaders.”
4. Add a Video From the Hiring Manager or CEO
We’ve mentioned this in the good templates, but it’s worth repeating: video is a game-changer. A 1–2 minute Loom video from the hiring manager explaining why the role matters makes your post feel real, human, and authentic.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Use Employee Testimonials or Reviews
If possible, include a short quote or link to Glassdoor reviews:
“Working here feels collaborative and mission-driven — I’ve never been in a company where leadership listens this closely.” – Current Project Controller
This builds social proof and makes candidates imagine themselves on your team.
👉 Add even one or two of these, and your job description goes from being a job ad to being a magnet for top talent.
Should You Use AI to Write a Job Description?
With so many tools out there, it’s tempting to let AI spit out a Project Controller job description in one click. Even big ATS platforms like Manatal and Workable are offering this shortcut. But here’s the truth:
AI can be useful — if you use it right. It can also ruin your hiring efforts if you don’t.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
- Typing “Write me a Project Controller job description” into ChatGPT or another tool and copy-pasting the result.
- This leads to the same problem we’ve been talking about: generic, lifeless posts.
- Candidates can spot these instantly. They feel robotic, uninspired, and disconnected from your actual company.
Result? You’ll attract volume, not quality.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI should be a polishing tool, not a replacement for your input. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Feed It the Right Raw Ingredients:
- What your company does
- Why this role matters in your team
- The tone and values you want to reflect
- Your salary, perks, and hiring process
- Any notes you’ve already drafted
- What your company does
- Prompt It Like This:
“Help me write a job post for [Company Name]. We’re hiring a Project Controller to manage budgets, forecasts, and cost tracking for renewable energy projects. Our culture is collaborative, transparent, and mission-driven. We want to attract detail-oriented, proactive candidates who value teamwork. We offer $85k–$105k, health/dental/vision, 20 PTO days, and growth opportunities. Here’s a rough outline I wrote [paste draft here]—please refine the tone, add structure, and make it candidate-friendly.” - Refine, Don’t Replace:
- Use AI to improve clarity, flow, and formatting.
- But always add back your culture, story, and personality. That’s what AI can’t generate without you.
- Use AI to improve clarity, flow, and formatting.
👉 Bottom line: AI can help you polish a strong draft, but it will never replace your authenticity. A Project Controller job post is often the candidate’s first impression of your company — don’t outsource that entirely to a machine.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
We know that sometimes, you just need something solid—fast.
Maybe you’ve read the guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a professional, ready-to-use template you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Project Controller – Keep Projects On Time & On Budget at [Company Name]💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/On-site] (HQ: [City, State])🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
🎥 Meet Your Future Manager
(Add a 60–90s Loom link here: why the role matters, team you’ll join, success in first 90 days)
Who We Are
[Company Name] delivers complex projects with precision and integrity. We partner with clients to bring critical initiatives to life—on time and on budget—while building a culture of accountability, clear communication, and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Do
- Own project financials: budgets, forecasts, cost-to-complete, cash flow
- Track actuals vs. plan; flag variances early and propose corrections
- Build monthly project reports and dashboards for PMs and leadership
- Collaborate on change orders, vendor invoices, and risk management
- Ensure compliance with internal controls and client requirements
- Tools you may use: [Procore/NetSuite/Power BI/Excel or equivalent]
What We’re Looking For
- [3–5]+ years in project controlling/accounting/financial analysis
- Strong budgeting, forecasting, and cost control fundamentals
- Clear communicator with stakeholder management skills
- Bachelor’s in Finance/Accounting/Business (advanced cert a plus)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You enjoy turning messy project data into clear decisions, partnering with PMs, and protecting margins and timelines on meaningful work.
Perks & Benefits
- Base salary: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year + [bonus/commission if applicable]
- Health, dental, vision
- 401(k) with [X]% match
- days PTO + [X] paid holidays
- Annual learning stipend ([${Z}]) + certification support
- [Remote/hybrid] setup, tech stipend, and modern tools
Our Hiring Process
We review every application within [X–Y] days. Shortlist → WorkScreen skills check → team interview → practical case. We communicate at every step.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. We reply to all applicants.
✅ Option 2: Structured Job Description (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: Project Controller – Keep Projects On Time & On Budget at [Company Name]💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/On-site] (HQ: [City, State])🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Project Controller to safeguard the financial health of our projects. You’ll align budgets, forecasts, and schedules, and provide the insight leaders need to deliver successfully.
Responsibilities
- Prepare/monitor project budgets and forecasts; analyze variances
- Track spend, resource allocation, and earned value (as applicable)
- Produce monthly reports and executive dashboards
- Partner with PMs on change orders and vendor management
- Maintain compliance with internal controls and client standards
Requirements
- Bachelor’s in Finance/Accounting/Business (or related)
- [2–4]+ years in project accounting/controlling/FP&A
- Proficiency with Excel; BI tools (e.g., Power BI) a plus
- Detail-oriented, organized, and proactive communicator
Perks & Benefits
- Base salary: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
- Health, dental, vision
- 401(k) with [X]% match
- days PTO + [X] paid holidays
- Professional development budget ([${Z}]/year)
- Flexible [remote/hybrid] work policy
Our Hiring Process
Shortlist → WorkScreen evaluation → interview(s) → practical exercise. Clear timelines and feedback provided throughout.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Every application is reviewed.
Why Stop at a Great Job Post? Let WorkScreen Do the Rest
Writing a compelling job description is step one. Step two is making sure you don’t waste time sifting through hundreds of résumés and AI-generated applications. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Assess real skills, not just résumés
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Filter out low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
- Save hours in screening
Instead of manually reviewing every application, you get a clear, prioritized shortlist of candidates worth interviewing.
👉 Once you’ve written a compelling job post, let WorkScreen.io do the heavy lifting.
[Sign up here] and start hiring smarter today.
Frequently Asked Questions - Project Controller Job Description
A Project Manager owns the overall delivery of a project — planning, execution, and stakeholder management. They’re accountable for outcomes like meeting deadlines, staying on scope, and satisfying the client.
A Project Controller, on the other hand, focuses on the financial health and control of the project. They monitor budgets, track costs, forecast spend, and provide reporting that enables smarter decisions. Think of the Project Manager as the driver and the Project Controller as the navigator — both essential, but with distinct responsibilities.
The best Project Controllers combine technical and interpersonal skills. Key skills include:
- Financial acumen: budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis
- Analytical ability: spotting risks, interpreting data, building models
- Tool proficiency: Excel, Power BI, or ERP/project systems like Oracle or SAP
- Communication: simplifying financial data for non-financial stakeholders
- Problem-solving: not just flagging issues, but proposing solutions
- Attention to detail: catching small errors that can balloon into major overruns
On average, Project Controllers earn between $70,000 and $95,000 per year in the U.S., depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior-level controllers in industries like construction, energy, or engineering can earn upwards of $100,000–$120,000, while entry-level roles may start around $55,000–$65,000.
Some common challenges include:
- Incomplete or delayed project data
- Scope changes that disrupt budgets and forecasts
- Pressure to deliver “good news” instead of accurate reporting
- Managing multiple projects at once with competing priorities
Strong controllers overcome these by being proactive, detail-oriented, and great communicators.
By ensuring projects remain on time and on budget, Project Controllers protect profitability and strengthen client trust. Their insight helps leadership make informed decisions, anticipate risks, and allocate resources effectively. In short, they’re the guardians of project financial health.
