Program Controls Director

The Program Controls Director at AECOM is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and monitoring of project controls for various infrastructure initiatives. This includes developing work breakdown structures, establishing cost control measures, and ensuring that projects align with budget and timeline expectations. The director plays a crucial role in coordinating with other departments and stakeholders to maintain project integrity while maximizing efficiency.

Candidates applying for the Program Controls Director role at AECOM should possess a degree in engineering, project management, or a related field, along with significant experience in program and project controls management. A strong background in infrastructure projects, knowledge of industry standards, certification in project management, and leadership skills are essential to excel in this position.

AECOM is dedicated to supporting the career development of its employees, including the Program Controls Director. The company offers a range of training programs and resources focused on skill enhancement and leadership development. Employees have access to ongoing professional development opportunities that allow them to grow both technically and personally within their roles, ensuring a vibrant career trajectory.

As a Program Controls Director at AECOM, you will work on diverse and impactful projects that span various sectors, including transportation, energy, water, and environmental initiatives. This role involves utilizing your expertise to guide projects through their lifecycle, fostering innovation and sustainability as core elements of your work.

AECOM's reputation as a leader in the infrastructure consulting industry is built on its commitment to delivering high-quality solutions that address complex challenges. With a rich history of innovation and a global team of experts, AECOM employs cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive methods to ensure successful project delivery and long-lasting positive impacts on communities.

When discussing your experience with project controls, it's essential to provide specific examples of past projects you managed. Highlight your techniques for budget management, scheduling, risk mitigation, and how you utilized software tools for reporting. Discuss the impact of your inputs on project outcomes to demonstrate your value.

Effective communication is crucial in project management. Share your strategies for regular updates, meetings, and progress reports while also emphasizing your willingness to listen and incorporate stakeholder feedback. This approach fosters transparency and helps maintain alignment on project goals.

When answering this question, discuss your proactive approach to budgeting, such as establishing realistic estimates based on data analysis. Mention your experience in identifying warning signs early and how you address issues through corrective actions and collaboration with the project team.

To effectively prioritize tasks, explain your approach of assessing project timelines, resource availability, and critical deadlines. Use tools like Gantt charts or priority matrices to streamline your focus, ensuring that urgent tasks align with overall project milestones.

Start by describing the project, its goals, and the unique challenges faced. Focus on your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and how you engaged team members to brainstorm solutions. Highlight the successful outcomes as a result of your leadership and resilience.

Discuss your systematic approach to risk management, including identification, analysis, and mitigation strategies. Share examples of how you implemented risk management plans in past projects and leveraged them to prevent issues and ensure successful project delivery.

Explain that measuring a project's success involves analyzing multiple metrics, such as adherence to budget, timelines, performance quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. Share past experiences where you defined these success criteria up-front and utilized them to guide project evaluation.

Share the specific software tools you’ve used, such as Primavera, MS Project, or others that facilitate project monitoring and control. Highlight how you have leveraged these tools to enhance efficiency, improve communication, and manage data effectively throughout projects.

Emphasize your commitment to ongoing learning through attending industry conferences, participating in webinars, and engaging with professional organizations. Share how this knowledge informs your approach to project controls and enhances your strategic decision-making.

Highlight the importance of creating a supportive environment where team members feel valued and engaged. Discuss methods you've utilized, such as setting clear goals, encouraging open dialogue, and recognizing contributions, as well as how they contribute to better collaboration and results.