Senior Cost Analyst (w/Risk Focus)

About the Position

We’re seeking a Senior Cost Analyst (w/Risk Focus)  to support the project controls and program finance office on a large-scale rail transit program. You’ll sit inside the owner’s risk and cost management function, quantifying exposure across the program, working the numbers behind contingency positions, and reporting to program leadership on what the risks are and what to do about them.

This is a long-term, full-time, on-site position located in Sacramento, CA.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Conduct recurring risk assessments across program processes to identify threats to program continuity and performance.

Monitor internal and external factors that affect the program’s risk profile, including cost drivers, escalation trends, and market conditions.

Analyze and quantify program risk exposure using qualitative and quantitative methods, including risk modeling, scenario analysis, and data analytics.

Assess financial, operational, legal, regulatory, and reputational risks to determine appropriate mitigation strategies.

Develop, implement, and monitor risk mitigation strategies and control measures with project controls, estimating, and scheduling teams.

Integrate risk analysis results into cost estimates, forecasts, and contingency positions.

Evaluate contractor and consultant risk submittals, assessing methodology, assumptions, and consistency with program requirements.

Prepare risk and cost reports for program leadership, highlighting key risks, potential impacts, and recommended actions.

Maintain accurate and current records of risk assessments, mitigation plans, and the program risk register.

Improve risk and cost management practices, identifying areas of refinement in how risks are detected, monitored, and managed.

Attributes

Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

Excellent multi-tasking and organizational skills.

Collaborative mindset that fosters teamwork, trust, and positive relationships.

Natural curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, finance, business, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

8+ years of experience in risk, cost, or project controls roles on large (>$500M), complex, heavy-civil infrastructure projects in passenger transit (bus or rail) or transportation (highways, roads, or bridges) sectors.

Demonstrated success performing qualitative and quantitative risk analysis, including risk modeling, scenario analysis, and data analytics.

Experience developing, implementing, and monitoring risk mitigation strategies with project controls, estimating, and scheduling teams.

Demonstrated success maintaining a program risk register and the associated cost and contingency forecasts.

Experience preparing risk reports and recommendations for senior program leadership.

Proficiency with risk and cost management tools (e.g. @Risk, Primavera Risk Analysis, Deltek Acumen, Safran Risk, Excel, etc.).

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite/Office 365 (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Word, PowerPoint, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in engineering, construction management, finance, or business.

Active professional certifications such as Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or Planning and Scheduling Professional (PSP) through AACE, Project Management Professional through PMI, or Certified Construction Manager (CCM) through CMAA.

10+ years of risk, cost, or project controls experience on transportation megaprograms valued at $1B+.

Proficiency with Microsoft Power BI, Oracle Cloud Analytics, or other dashboard KPI reporting software.

Compensation Details

Expected Salary: $125k-$205k/year ($60-$99/hour). Luster provides the salary range that the company in good faith believes it might offer for this position based on the successful candidate’s level and years of experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, education, certifications, licenses, geographic location, etc. Luster reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range depending on circumstances not related to any status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.

Just LOOK at the Benefits We Offer!

Unlimited flexible time off

Paid holidays

Paid parental leave

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Flexible spending accounts (healthcare and dependent or elder care)

Long-term disability insurance

Short-term disability insurance

Life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment

401(k) plan with guaranteed employer contribution

Formal career planning and development program

$2,500 annually toward professional development

Wellness program with monthly wellness stipend

Company cell phone or cell phone plan reimbursement

Free personalized meal planning and nutrition support with a registered dietitian

Free personal financial planning services

Employee assistance program

Employee discounts

Employee referral bonus

Specific plan details and coverage for each benefit noted above will be provided upon offer. #IN-LNJS