Cost Controller Assistant

Role Purpose

The Cost Controller Assistant provides administrative and analytical support to the Cost Control function, assisting with cost tracking, data capture, reporting, and variance analysis. The role supports effective budget control, cost visibility, and financial discipline across mining, processing, and support departments.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Tracking & Data Capture

• Capture and update operating and capital cost data in financial and ERP systems.
• Track daily and monthly expenditure against budgets and forecasts.
• Maintain cost registers, commitment logs, and accruals under guidance of the Cost Controller.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of cost data.

Budgeting & Forecast Support

• Assist with preparation and updating of budgets and forecasts.
• Support rolling forecasts by updating actuals and commitments.
• Compile departmental cost inputs and supporting documentation.
• Help align production plans with cost reporting timelines.

Cost Analysis & Reporting

• Assist in preparation of weekly and monthly cost reports and dashboards.
• Support variance analysis (actual vs budget vs forecast).
• Collect and consolidate cost drivers and explanations from departments.
• Maintain unit cost tracking (e.g., cost per tonne processed/milled).

Procurement & Invoice Support

• Track purchase orders, goods receipted and committed costs.
• Assist with invoice verification (matching POs, GRNs, approvals).
• Flag discrepancies, delays, or potential overspends to the Cost Controller.
• Support contractor cost tracking and timesheet verification where applicable.

Capital & Project Cost Support

• Assist with CAPEX tracking for projects, shutdowns, and major maintenance.
• Maintain project cost summaries and commitment schedules.
• Support project close‑out documentation and post‑implementation reviews.

Systems, Controls & Compliance

• Maintain accurate cost codes, cost centres, and document filing.
• Support internal controls, audits, and reconciliations.
• Ensure compliance with site financial procedures and governance standards.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity of financial information.

Stakeholder Support

• Liaise with operations and engineering teams to collect cost inputs and clarifications.
• Provide administrative assistance to improve cost awareness and reporting timeliness.
• Support continuous improvement of cost control processes.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or Certificate in Finance, Accounting, Cost Management, or related field.
• 1–3 years' experience in cost control, finance administration, or accounting support.
• Basic understanding of operational costs in mining or heavy industry.
• Computer literacy (ERP/financial systems, MS Excel).

Desirable

• Experience in zinc or base‑metal mining.
• Exposure to processing plant or maintenance cost environments.
• Studying towards a professional accounting qualification.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong numerical and analytical ability
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Good organisational and time‑management skills
• Ability to work to deadlines under pressure
• Clear communication and teamwork skills
• Integrity and confidentiality

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Accuracy and timeliness of cost data capture
• Quality and punctuality of reports
• Support to variance analysis and forecasting accuracy
• Reduction in data errors and rework
• Audit and compliance outcomes