Discover Inspiring Career Pathways | Careers in Water

Project Controller

Written by Water Source | Jul 28, 2026 3:11:52 AM
Project Controllers play a key role in delivering the water infrastructure that communities rely on every day.
 
They work behind the scenes to keep projects on track by monitoring budgets, schedules, risks and performance.
 
You could support the construction of new treatment plants, pipelines, pump stations, dams or recycled water schemes, helping project teams deliver complex infrastructure efficiently.
 
Working closely with project managers, engineers, contractors and finance teams, you'll analyse project data, prepare reports and identify issues before they become major problems.
 
Your work helps ensure essential water projects are completed safely, efficiently and provide long-term benefits for communities and the environment.
 
Suited to highly organised, analytical, and detail-oriented individuals who enjoy working behind the scenes to keep projects on track.

Ideal for those who are problem-solvers, comfortable with numbers and reporting, and interested in project delivery and governance.

Motivation often comes from seeing projects progress smoothly and contributing to infrastructure or sustainability outcomes.
 
 

DAY TO DAY WORK

  • Developing and maintaining project schedules and timelines.
  • Monitoring project budgets, costs and financial performance.
  • Tracking project progress against key milestones and deadlines.
  • Preparing reports and dashboards for project managers and senior leaders.
  • Identifying risks, delays and potential cost overruns.
  • Supporting forecasting, resource planning and project planning activities.
  • Coordinating project documentation, contracts and records.
  • Working with engineers, contractors, procurement and finance teams.
  • Supporting project meetings and maintaining action registers.
  • Using project management software to monitor and report project performance.

SKILLS AND INTERESTS 

  • Enjoys planning, organising and coordinating complex work.
  • Strong analytical and numerical skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Interested in construction, engineering and infrastructure projects.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Comfortable working with spreadsheets, reporting tools and project management software.
  • Good problem-solving and time management abilities.

Qualifications for this role

  • Bachelor of Project Management, Construction Management, Engineering, Business or Commerce qualifications are required for this role.

  • Some Project Controllers begin their careers in engineering, finance or quantity surveying before moving into project controls.