How much does a Project Controls Specialist make?
The role of a Project Controls Specialist is both rewarding and well-compensated. On average, these professionals earn about $106,259 each year. Salaries can range quite a bit, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in.
Most Project Controls Specialists fall into the middle of the salary range. For example, many earn between $74,318 and $114,545 each year. The higher earners often have more experience or work in high-demand sectors. Some may also have additional certifications or skills that help them command a higher salary.
What are the highest paying cities for a Project Controls Specialist?

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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $135,659
In Los Angeles, one can expect dynamic growth and diverse opportunities in the construction and entertainment industries. Companies like AECOM and Bechtel often seek professionals to manage budgets and schedules. The city’s vibrant economy offers a fertile ground for those in project management.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $126,392
Charlotte offers a stable job market, particularly in finance and banking. Companies such as Bank of America and Duke Energy look for skilled specialists. The city’s reputation for quality infrastructure projects provides a solid backdrop for a successful career.
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Amarillo, TX
Average Salary: $112,405
Amarillo’s energy sector is a key player in the job market. Firms like Luminant and CP Chem seek professionals to oversee large-scale projects. The city’s smaller size offers a close-knit community feel while still providing substantial professional opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $111,368
San Francisco’s tech-driven economy has a growing demand for project management expertise. Companies such as Oracle and Salesforce need specialists to ensure projects run smoothly. The city's innovative environment makes it a great place for those in the tech and construction sectors.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $110,812
Washington, DC, provides a rich environment for public sector projects. Companies like AECOM and Fluor Corporation seek specialists to manage government contracts. The city’s focus on infrastructure and defense projects offers a steady stream of opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $110,404
Seattle’s thriving tech scene means strong demand for project management skills. Companies such as Amazon and Boeing need professionals to manage complex projects. The city’s innovative culture offers a vibrant and rewarding work environment.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $105,881
Houston’s energy sector is a major employer. Companies like Halliburton and Schlumberger frequently hire specialists to oversee large projects. The city’s diverse industries provide a wealth of opportunities for those in project management.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $104,857
Raleigh is a hub for research and development, attracting companies like IBM and Cisco. Specialists can find roles managing projects in these cutting-edge fields. The city’s growing economy offers promising career prospects.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $102,353
Philadelphia offers a mix of historic and modern industries. Companies such as Comcast and Aramark seek specialists to manage their projects. The city’s rich industrial history provides a unique backdrop for professional growth.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $102,129
Chicago’s diverse economy includes finance, manufacturing, and technology. Companies like Accenture and JPMorgan Chase often need project management expertise. The city’s vibrant culture and job opportunities make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Project Controls Specialist can work for?

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Omega Technical Services
Average Salary: $197,325
Omega Technical Services values skilled Project Controls Specialists. This company offers roles across multiple locations including Houston, Texas, and Denver, Colorado. Omega focuses on delivering technical services to the energy sector, ensuring project efficiency and client satisfaction.
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Fluor Corp.
Average Salary: $132,082
Fluor Corp. offers rewarding positions for Project Controls Specialists. With offices in Houston, Texas, and other key locations, Fluor works on a variety of engineering and construction projects worldwide. They emphasize innovation and project management excellence.
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Marathon Petroleum
Average Salary: $129,664
Marathon Petroleum provides competitive salaries for Project Controls Specialists. They have operations in Houston, Texas, and other parts of the country. Marathon focuses on the energy industry, offering dynamic project environments and career growth opportunities.
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Burns & McDonnell
Average Salary: $129,318
Burns & McDonnell is known for its strong support of Project Controls Specialists. Located in Kansas City, Missouri, and other areas, they offer roles in engineering and construction. The company values expertise and teamwork in project management.
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KBR
Average Salary: $126,927
KBR offers attractive compensation packages for Project Controls Specialists. Their projects span Houston, Texas, and various international locations. KBR specializes in engineering and construction, providing challenging and rewarding roles.
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WSP
Average Salary: $122,159
WSP provides an excellent environment for Project Controls Specialists. With offices in New York, New York, and other locations, WSP focuses on consulting and engineering services. They value professional development and project management skills.
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Granite Construction
Average Salary: $116,489
Granite Construction offers rewarding positions for Project Controls Specialists. They operate in locations like Sacramento, California, and other key areas. Granite focuses on construction and infrastructure projects, providing a stable and growth-oriented career path.
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Trans Ash, Inc.
Average Salary: $105,000
Trans Ash, Inc. provides solid opportunities for Project Controls Specialists. They operate in Houston, Texas, and other parts of the country. Trans Ash focuses on waste management and resource recovery, offering diverse project experiences.
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Amtrak
Average Salary: $104,236
Amtrak offers competitive salaries for Project Controls Specialists. Based in Washington, D.C., and other locations, Amtrak is a key player in rail transportation. They focus on safety and efficiency in their projects, providing a stable career path.
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Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC
Average Salary: $102,014
Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC provides rewarding positions for Project Controls Specialists. With operations in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and other key locations, they focus on nuclear energy and power generation, offering a dynamic project environment.
How to earn more as a Project Controls Specialist?
A Project Controls Specialist plays a vital role in the construction and engineering industries. This professional helps manage budgets, timelines, and project performance. Earning more in this role depends on several key factors. By focusing on these areas, a specialist can increase their earning potential.
Here are five factors to consider for boosting earnings:
- Gain certifications: Earning certifications can show employers your expertise. The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers the PMI-SP (Project Management Professional) and the AACE International offers the Certified Construction Estimator (CCE). These credentials can lead to higher pay.
- Accumulate experience: More experience usually means higher pay. Specialists who have worked on many projects are in demand. Each project adds to your skills and knowledge, making you more valuable.
- Learn new software: Being skilled with project management software can set you apart. Tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, and Deltek are common. Knowing these tools can help you work faster and more efficiently.
- Improve communication skills: Clear communication with team members and clients is crucial. Good communication helps avoid mistakes and keeps projects on track. Better communication skills can lead to more trust from employers, which often means higher pay.
- Seek advanced roles: Taking on more responsibility can lead to higher earnings. Look for roles like Senior Project Controls Specialist or Project Controls Manager. These positions often come with higher pay due to the added responsibilities.



