About the Project
We are supporting the delivery of the DFS for a large-scale copper-gold development in Southeast Asia. The project is a full greenfield build, covering mine, plant, infrastructure and port, with delivery split across multiple global offices. The current phase is focused on progressing the study into a buildable outcome —integrating engineering, cost and schedule into a position that supports the final investment decision and transition into execution.
This is a complex project environment, with a strong emphasis on cost accuracy, scope alignment and managing change as the design develops.
About the Role
The Senior Cost Controller will support the broader project team in managing costs across a defined scope during the DFS phase, with a focus on change management. The role sits within project controls and is focused on ensuring cost is aligned with engineering progress, scope changes and study deliverables — rather than just reporting numbers.
You’ll be working closely with engineering and project teams to track performance, challenge assumptions, and maintain a clear view of cost as the design evolves.
Key Responsibilities
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Manage cost control processes across an allocated project scope
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Track and report cost performance against budget and forecast
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Support the development and maintenance of cost forecasts aligned with engineering progress
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Work closely with engineering teams to ensure cost reflects scope changes and design updates
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Monitor and manage cost impacts related to variations, risks and emerging issues
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Support estimate development and updates during the DFS phase
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Assist in integrating cost with schedule and progress reporting
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Maintain cost reports and provide clear, accurate updates
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Identify trends, variances and potential risks, and escalate where required
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Support the development of cost breakdown structures and control frameworks
Operating Context
This role sits within a multidisciplinary DFS team delivering integrated engineering and project controls outcomes. You’ll be working alongside the other Sr Cost Controller, planners and technical leads, ensuring cost remains aligned as the design develops. The Project Controls Lead retains overall accountability, with the Senior Cost Controller playing a key role in maintaining visibility and control across the scope.
About You
We’re looking for someone who understands how cost sits within a study environment, not just execution.
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Experience in cost control on mining or resource projects.
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Change Management experience is essential
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Exposure to study phases (PFS / DFS) or early project development
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Strong understanding of how engineering progress impacts cost
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Experience working within EPC or EPCM delivery environments
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Ability to work closely with engineering teams and challenge cost assumptions
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Experience with cost forecasting, reporting and variance analysis
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Familiarity with project controls systems and cost tools
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Experience in copper, gold or similar processing projects is beneficial
Roster & Conditions
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Perth-based role
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Monday to Friday
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Hybrid flexibility available
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Initial 12-month contract aligned with DFS delivery
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Competitive market rates ($105-$110 ph + super)
Why Apply
This is an opportunity to be involved in the DFS for a major international development, where cost plays a key role in shaping project decisions. You’ll be working in a team where cost, engineering and schedule are closely integrated, with real visibility on how the project is progressing toward execution. There is also a clear pathway into future project phases, with continuity expected for strong performers as the project moves beyond DFS.
Who Are TSS?
TSS is a WA-based recruitment agency established in 2018, specialising in placing professionals and trades into the resources sector. We've quickly built strong relationships with leading owner-operators, EPCMs, consultancies, and construction firms, contributing to major projects in mining, energy, renewables, and infrastructure worldwide.
