Project Cost Controller (Fixed Term Contract)

About the Company

Since its establishment in 2008, Mulilo has grown into one of South Africa’s leading Independent Power Producers (IPP). Mulilo is majority owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), with Norfund holding an additional investment through the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund.

Mulilo develops, constructs and operates utility scale wind, solar PV and battery energy storage projects across South Africa. The company currently operates 450 MW of wind and solar capacity, with a further 765 MW under construction. A portfolio exceeding 2 GW is advancing toward financial close, while the long-term development pipeline exceeds 30 GW.

Mulilo has concluded power purchase agreements under the South African government’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), as well as private offtake agreements with several large corporate energy users.

Mulilo places significant emphasis on its people and recognises that successful infrastructure delivery depends on capable and committed teams. The company prides itself on providing a world-class working environment, with a clear focus on career progression and personal growth. Grounded in its values, Mulilo fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration and purpose, while remaining committed to its environmental, social and governance responsibilities.

About this role

As a Project Cost Controller for renewable energy construction projects in South Africa, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful delivery of our projects within budgetary constraints. You will work closely with project managers, engineers, procurement specialists, and finance teams to monitor, analyse, and control project costs throughout the project lifecycle. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure in South Africa while advancing your career in a dynamic and fast-growing industry.

Duties and Responsibilities

Budget Management and Forecasting

• Develop and maintain project budgets in collaboration with project managers, procurement and finance teams.
• Develop cost baselines and prepare accurate Estimate at Completion (EAC) by regularly assessing commitments, risks EMV, variation orders and actuals.
• Prepare accurate forecasts of project costs based on project milestones, billing plans and anticipated future expenditures.
• Drive cost efficiency and safeguard margins where applicable.

Cost Monitoring and Variance Analysis

• Implement cost control procedures and tools to ensure adherence to budgetary policies and constraints.
• Review and analyse project cost data, including invoices, contracts, change orders, and other procurement activities.
• Review and approve supplier and contractor invoices ensuring compliance with executed contracts, task orders and purchase orders.
• Monitor project expenses and track budget variances to identify potential cost overruns or savings opportunities.
• Identify cost saving initiatives and recommend strategies to optimize project costs without compromising quality or timelines.

Financial and Risk Analysis

• Conduct financial analysis and risk assessments to identify potential cost impacts and mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with project teams to develop contingency plans and alternative scenarios to address cost uncertainties.
• Analyse financial data, identify trends and provide insightful recommendations to optimize project performance.

Vendor and Contract Management

• In collaboration with procurement specialists and finance teams,
• Evaluate vendor proposals and negotiate favourable terms and pricing agreements.
• Monitor contractor performance and compliance with contractual obligations.
• Address any discrepancies or disputes related to vendor costs and invoices in a timely manner.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory requirements, accounting standards, and company policies.
• Prepare detailed monthly cost and performance reports, high level cost reports and any ad hoc reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Participate in project audits and reviews to validate financial data and controls.

Required skills and education background

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, or similar. Advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., CMA, CPA, PMP, FMVA) preferred.
• At least 5 years of proven relevant experience in project cost control, preferably in the renewable energy or construction industry.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data and trends.
• Proficiency in financial modelling, ERP systems, PowerPoint and Microsoft Excel (preferably Intermediate to Advanced level).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and precision in financial analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with South African regulatory frameworks and industry standards for renewable energy projects is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable attributes

The ideal candidate would have a passion for the Renewable Energy sector and personality traits would include a high level of emotional intelligence with human skills, coupled with diligence, determination, resilience, and agility.

Mulilo is an employer of choice and is offering an extremely competitive total remuneration package for this position.

Additional Information

Able to work overtime according to operational needs.