Cost Analyst

This is a re-post. Applicants who applied previously need not re-apply.

This position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Temporary Librarian, Administrative and Professional Officer (TLAPO) Agreement , this position is an initial appointment of 2 years and offers a comprehensive benefits package found at Faculty & Staff Benefits  and annual salary range of $66,730 to $111,144.

Location – North campus. This role is in person

Department summary

The University of Alberta leads with purpose by investing in the effective and responsible development of our campus infrastructure—building campuses that reflect our excellence in Academics, research and teaching. From small renovations or sustainability projects, to constructing an entire facility from the ground up, Facilities & Operations projects align with U of A’s vision, mission and mandate and are guided by the university’s Long Range Development Plan and Integrated Asset Management Strategy.  

The Infrastructure Development Department at the University of Alberta is the primary area responsible for planning and delivering campus infrastructure and buildings related development projects. The department consists of Space Planning and Stewardship Office, Campus Architecture Office, and the Project Management Office.

This position exists within the Project Management Office (PMO). The PMO is primarily responsible for the delivery of facilities based projects, including contributions and leadership in the planning, initiation, execution, turnover, and close out of projects.

Position summary

The Cost Analyst applies knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to provide expert cost management advice and consultation to Facilities and Operations and other University departments. In doing so the Cost Analyst is responsible for providing critical support in the development of the University’s capital plan, and the successful management of capital projects.

This position is also responsible for supporting the procurement of (and providing management and oversight for) external consultant services that may be needed to provide supplemental cost management, support, and information to inform decision making related to capital planning and projects.

Duties

• Applies the vertical infrastructure cost management system and professional cost management principles to specific capital projects, working directly with project managers, clients, and consultants in a multi-disciplinary team environment to provide cost management services. Cost management services include cost analysis (functional and elemental), cost planning, business case development, capital budget development, variance analysis, tender analysis, analysis of claims, and life cycle costing.
• Researches and evaluates existing and emerging best practices relating to the provision of cost management services, recommending the adoption of innovative practices, approaches, standards, templates, and tools.
• Ensures that representatives of the University of Alberta are provided with expert cost management advice, consultation, and guidance.
  • Consults and collaborates in a multi-disciplinary team environment to:
    • determine requirements for cost management services and alternatives for provision.
    • establish cost management service standards and terms of reference.
    • select appropriate cost management consultants, when required,  in accordance with established practices.
    • review the work and deliverables of cost consultants for compliance with terms of reference.
  • Performs troubleshooting for issues relating to the provision of services by cost management consultants.
  • Provides training and guidance to project management staff and clients as to use of cost management models and reports.
  • Maintains current knowledge of innovation pertaining to the delivery and application of cost management systems through ongoing review of journals, participation at conferences, and continued professional development.
• Ensures that the University of Alberta is provided with quality assurance and project support input to support uniform approaches to cost management.
• Performs quality assurance checks to ensure appropriate and consistent application of cost management tools.
• Provides feedback and input pertaining to techniques and tools (cost plan standards, templates, tools, business processes, and systems etc.) to develop and support continuous improvement of a cost management system.
• Identifies opportunities to improve University cost management procedures, templates and products/reports.
• Provides advice, consultation, and recommendations for issues, opportunities, and challenges associated with cost management, including the review of change pricing and claims and preparing responses to action requests, briefing documents, and reports.
• Ensures that key information and learnings are documented and retained in order to develop an internal database.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 3-5 years of directly related experience in the profession or discipline
• Eligibility for designation as a PQS with the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors
• The Cost Analyst must be able to effectively apply the full set of Quantity Surveyor skills, theories, and principles (as defined by the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors).
• This position must be knowledgeable and capable to credibly represent cost management principles, systems and associated components to clients in a professional manner; consult with clients and perform quality assurance activities on their behalf. The Cost Analyst requires significant competence in problem solving, communication, collaboration, and a focus on providing high quality expertise, guidance, and services.
• The Cost Analyst must have highly developed and demonstrated:

• Skills in applying cost management principles and techniques to high profile or complex building projects, including an ability to function effectively as an internal costing expert.
• Abilities to advise and guide others, particularly in relation to securing external cost management consultant resources.
• Consultation and interpersonal skills to deal effectively with complex and sensitive issues involving diverse clients with potentially conflicting perspectives, expectations, and requirements and to provide direct cost management services for all assigned projects.
• Analytical, conceptual, and problem-solving skills, including ability to analyze information and risks; make decisions in alignment with business plan goals; and to provide cost management expertise.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including ability to develop and present alternatives and recommendations to decision-makers.
• Time management and organizational skills, including ability to handle complex responsibilities and meet deadlines.
• An ability to work independently or within a team environment and maintain a current awareness of cost management industry direction

Note: Online applications are accepted until midnight Mountain Standard Time of the closing date.