Downer
Leading provider of integrated services across Australia and New Zealand, delivering infrastructure solutions.
Senior Cost Controller managing budgeting, forecasting, and finance governance for water projects.
4 hours ago
Expert & Leadership (13+ years)
Full Time
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Onsite
Company Size
50,000 Employees
Service Specialisms
Transport
Utilities
Facilities
Engineering, Construction and Maintenance
Mining
Sector Specialisms
Transport
Utilities
Facilities
Asset Services
Oil and Gas
Power Generation
Industrial
Defence
Role
Description
budget planning
cost forecasting
risk analysis
cash flow
reporting
mentoring
- Lead budget planning, forecasting, and governance across multiple projects.
- Analyse trends, identify early warnings, and recommend corrective actions to mitigate cost and schedule risks.
- Mentor cost controllers and promote best practice across projects.
- Facilitate cross‑project risk and opportunity reviews with delivery teams.
- Oversee month‑end reporting, cost accruals, cash flow forecasting, and budget adjustments.
- Work in a Tier 1 ASX‑listed company delivering critical national infrastructure with in‑house technical expertise and strong project support.
Requirements
10+ years
ineight
jde
excel
cost control
mentoring
We are seeking an experienced Senior Cost Controller to join Downer’s Utilities – Water Services team, reporting to the Finance Manager. This full‑time, on‑site role is based in Brisbane and is pivotal in ensuring strong financial governance, forecasting, and performance analysis across multiple or complex construction projects. You will collaborate with project teams, mentor cost controllers, and provide insights that drive project success. The role is essential in supporting the delivery of Australia’s critical water infrastructure.
- 10+ years’ experience in project cost management, ideally in capital construction or infrastructure.
- Strong proficiency in InEight, JDE, or similar cost control systems.
- Advanced Excel and data analysis skills; deep understanding of cost control principles, including EVPM.
- Proven experience in mentoring, process improvement, and stakeholder engagement.
- Highly analytical, detail‑oriented, proactive, and results‑driven.
Benefits
- Competitive remuneration and employee benefits.
- Career development programs such as THRIVE and EmpowHER.
- Access to Perks@Downer discounts across financial, travel, and wellbeing services.
- Internal mobility and progression opportunities within Energy & Utilities.
Training + Development
Information not given or found
Interview process
Information not given or found
Visa Sponsorship
Information not given or found
Security clearance
Information not given or found
Company
Overview
Since 1933
Year Established
The company has a longstanding legacy of providing essential infrastructure services.
- specializes in delivering integrated services across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, energy, and utilities.
- supports both private and public sectors with a diverse portfolio spanning construction, maintenance, and operations.
- undertakes large-scale projects such as road construction, rail, energy, and water infrastructure.
- has an expansive footprint in Australia and New Zealand, deeply involved in supporting national and regional development.
- notable projects include urban transport systems, renewable energy installations, and vital utilities services.
- has a strong focus on innovation, utilizing the latest technology to deliver efficient and sustainable solutions.
Culture + Values
- The Downer Difference: commitment to build a high-performance organisation
- We own the outcomes: accountability, high standards, efficiency and continuous improvement
- We do it for our customers: customer-centric perspective, win-win outcomes, going above and beyond
- We stand for each other: mutual respect, safety, trust, resilience, speaking up
Environment + Sustainability
50% reduction
Scope 1 & 2 emissions target
The company aims to achieve a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2032 compared to a 2020 baseline.
1.5°C pathway
Climate alignment target
The company is aligned with a 1.5°C climate pathway, ensuring its operations are in line with global efforts to mitigate climate change.
2024 climate disclosure
Aotearoa NZ Climate Standards compliance
The company will begin disclosing its climate performance in accordance with Aotearoa NZ Climate Standards from 2024.
- Scope 3 emissions target under review
- Board oversight via multiple committees; monthly reporting includes GHG performance and decarbonisation progress
Inclusion & Diversity
40% Workforce Target
Gender Balance Goals
Targets to achieve 40% women in the workforce, 25% in management, 28% in executive roles, and 40% on the Board by 2026.
34% Women in Workforce
FY21 Representation
In FY21, the workforce was 34% female, with women holding 17% of management roles, 25% of executive positions, and 33% of Board seats.
- Own Different campaign: celebrate and empower 26,000+ unique individuals
- Inclusion & Belonging Strategy & Action Plan 2022–2024; Steering Committees and training programs embedded
- Specific focus on gender balance in trades, middle and senior management
- EmpowHER women's network; StandOut Global LGBTQIA+ network; Pride Pledge commitment
- Māori leadership programmes (Te Ara Whanake, Wāhine Toa), Māori cultural awareness training