As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Project Controls Manager in the United States is $151,885 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $73.
However, a Project Controls Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Project Controls Manager's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Project Controls Manager's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Engineer IV | 7+ years | $131,817 |
| Cost Engineer V | 7-10 years | $155,325 |
| Project Cost Control Team Leader | 10+ years | $116,109 |
| Project Controls Manager | 10+ years | $151,885 |
| Project Controls Senior Manager | 10+ years | $178,118 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Project Controls Managers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Scheduling | 8.25% |
| Accounting | 1.83% |
| Microsoft Office | 1.06% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Communication Skills
|
$156,442 |
3%
|
|
Coordination
|
$156,442 |
3%
|
|
Presentation
|
$156,442 |
3%
|
|
Verbal Communication
|
$154,923 |
2%
|
|
Earned Value Management
|
$154,923 |
2%
|
|
Project Planning
|
$154,923 |
2%
|
Understanding how a Project Controls Manager's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Project Controls Manager, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Project Management Senior Manager | $152,115 | 0% |
| Engineering Program Management Senior Manager | $177,637 | 17% |
| Project Management Director | $171,148 | 13% |
| Project Controls Senior Manager | $178,118 | 17% |
Salaries for a Project Controls Manager can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $121,336 in 2023 to around $119,852 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Project Controls Manager salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $121,336 |
| 2024 | $120,933 |
| 2025 | $119,852 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Project Controls Manager and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A Project Controls Manager's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Project Controls Manager earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Project Controls Manager is $191,573.
The highest pay for Project Controls Manager is $186,367.
The lowest pay for Project Controls Manager is $126,728.
Develops and implements standardized project controls to manage budgets, scheduling, and quality for engineering, construction, and other types of projects. Establishes controls and operating policies that identify, monitor, and mitigate risk factors that could impact the success of a project. Creates standard methods for project estimating, procurement, accounting, work breakdown structure, contract management, reporting, and other project-related processes. Ensures controls address cost or budget considerations, scope changes, supplier performance, and other risk levels. Provides guidance and consultation to project managers. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1-3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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