Program Cost/Schedule Control Analyst I (Entry-Level)
The Program Cost/Schedule Control Analyst I is responsible for establishing and monitoring cost control systems and schedules on contracts, ensuring adherence to government guidelines and negotiated parameters. This entry-level role involves preparing budgets, performing financial analyses, conducting schedule risk assessments, and maintaining accurate expenditure records to support program requirements and mitigate risks. The position requires strong analytical skills, proficiency in MS Excel and PowerPoint, and the ability to work independently within a dynamic aerospace and defense environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Summary
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is hiring an entry-level Program Cost/Schedule Control Analyst I to join their IT finance/control team in Madison, MS. This role supports contract cost and schedule control activities: setting up cost control systems, preparing budgets and schedules, performing funding and variance analyses, and supporting schedule risk assessments.
What You’ll Do
This is an entry-level, hands-on role working on government or contract programs that require validated cost/schedule control systems.
- Set up and maintain cost control systems and schedule baselines for assigned contracts.
- Monitor contract costs and schedules and incorporate contractual changes to maintain realistic baselines.
- Prepare budgets, funding profiles, schedule forecasts, and expenditure projections.
- Perform financial analyses including variance analysis, sales outlook, and trend reporting.
- Perform schedule risk assessments and identify mitigation options for cost and schedule risks.
- Prepare program plans and ensure statements of work and deliverables are captured and scheduled.
- Produce routine and ad-hoc reports to support contract and program managers.
- Maintain accurate records of expenditures and submit timely funding requests to the government as required.
- Communicate findings clearly to internal stakeholders; support audits and reviews as needed.
Qualifications
Minimum qualifications — candidates who meet these should apply.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent combination of education and experience. (One year of related experience may substitute for one year of education where applicable.)
- 0–3 years of related experience (entry-level to early career).
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong analytical skills and ability to manipulate and distill large volumes of financial and schedule data.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Solid understanding of financial accounts interdependencies and cost/revenue drivers.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including shifts, overtime, and weekends when required.
- Ability to protect confidential and proprietary information.
- Technical skills:
- Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel (required).
- Intermediate Microsoft PowerPoint (required).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with SAP in a manufacturing or contract environment.
- Prior experience in a Job Cost environment.
- Accounting/finance experience in Aerospace & Defense or other government contracting environments.
- Familiarity with validated cost/schedule control systems (e.g., EVMS concepts).
Employment Type & Location
- Employment type: Full-time.
- Location: Madison, MS — on-site or as specified by the confidential client (local candidates preferred).
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated annual salary: $73,053 (estimated; final offer depends on experience, qualifications, and market factors).
- Benefits typically include:
- Healthcare coverage
- Life insurance, AD&D, and disability benefits
- Retirement plan
- Wellness programs
- Paid time off and holidays
- Learning & development resources
- Employee assistance programs
Compensation and benefits are subject to change and may be adjusted consistent with company policies and applicable law.
Recruiter Notes (Careertakes)
Careertakes is managing initial screening for Confidential Client. We screen for core qualifications and fit; final hiring decisions are made by people at Confidential Client. Applicants may be contacted for clarifying questions or to schedule interviews.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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