Project Control Analyst

The Integrated Products Division (IPD) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Project Control Analyst to support our Project deck which encompasses rapidly growing portfolio of advanced technology solutions and products. Our team develops solutions across advanced technology domains including robotics, vehicle platforms, advanced sensors solutions, geotechnical applications and weapon systems, for existing and emerging commercial and defense customers .

This role provides critical support to project managers, engineering team and the accounting team, with a focus on data analysis, project controls, and continuous process improvement.

• Essential Functions

Project Portfolio Data & Performance Analysis • Analyze complex project datasets to identify trends, improve efficiency, and support decision‑making. • Consolidate data across the division to maintain a portfolio‑level view of performance and resource projections. • Maintain dashboards and KPIs to ensure visibility of schedule, cost, and resource metrics. • Perform cost projections, budget analysis, and estimates for labor, materials, and equipment.

Project Planning & Controls • Support project managers and engineering team in building and maintaining Smartsheet project plans, ensuring accurate linking to reporting tools. • Maintain resource planning tools to ensure accurate allocation of personnel and materials. • Identify and communicate potential resource or cost risks proactively. • Support project manager in tracking subcontractor spending, deliverables, and progress as needed.

Process Improvement & System Integration • Lead or support internal process‑improvement initiatives across project management and accounting workflows. • Maintain and improve cost tracker templates; troubleshoot formula or formatting issues. • Assist the accounting team in reconciling revenue and cost data between AP, E‑Office, and internal trackers. • Support efforts to integrate project, financial, and reporting systems for greater accuracy and efficiency.

Configuration & Change Management • Assist project management and systems engineering teams with the change management process. • Participate in configuration review boards and ensure required approvals are completed.

Project Portfolio Support & Documentation • Contribute to proposal estimates and cost inputs. • Support project portfolio reviews, capturing and communicating action items. • Facilitate lessons‑learned activities for completed projects. • Provide additional project management support as needed.

• Required Experience & Skills • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field • 2-4 years of relevant experience • Experience in data integration, cleansing, or combining datasets • Strong Excel skills (Power Query, VLOOKUP, macros) • Proficiency in MS Word, PowerPoint • Highly organized with strong attention to detail and communication skills • U.S. Citizenship required