Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our dynamic team as a Principal Cost Engineer, managing cost data and forecasting.
- Company: MBDA is a leading defence organisation supporting the Armed Forces and promoting freedom.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, a company bonus, flexible leave, and fantastic site facilities.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven culture that values your unique contributions and offers growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or equivalent; strong engineering background and cost engineering experience preferred.
- Other info: Security clearance required; must be a British citizen or dual UK national.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 58000 £ per year.
We are looking for a motivated, inquisitive and detail-orientated Cost Engineer to join our small, friendly and dynamic team working within the Manufacturing organisation.
Salary: Circa £50,000 depending on experience
Dynamic (hybrid) working: 1-2 days per week on-site due to workload classification
Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship
What we can offer you:
- Company bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on company performance and will vary year to year)
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime
- Flexi Leave: Up to 15 additional days
- Flexible working: We welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements
- Enhanced parental leave: offers up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave - enhancements are available for paternity leave, neonatal leave and fertility testing and treatments
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more…
The opportunity:
- You will build a network across numerous functions within the business to enable you to generate robust cost data that will assist:
- Manufacturing with forecast production costs followed by whole life cycle analysis
- Bid Teams and future business
- Design to cost
- Working with Design and Manufacturing stakeholders at all levels
What we're looking for from you:
- Educated to HNC/HND standard or equivalent
- A strong background in engineering/manufacturing is essential.
- Experience of estimating/cost engineering is desirable.
- Relevant production life cycle experience is highly desirable.
- A sound appreciation of manufacturing processes is important.
- Good level of influencing, negotiating and persuasiveness with the ability to adapt style in different situations.
- Skilled in managing deadlines with the ability to multi-task and prioritise own work and work of others.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Able to assimilate facts from a range of sources.
- Self-motivated with the resilience and tenacity to deliver results through others.
Our company: MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom. We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.
Principal Cost Engineer employer: The Engineer
Contact Detail:
The Engineer Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Cost Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role of a Principal Cost Engineer at our company.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with cost engineering tools and software commonly used in the industry. Being well-versed in these tools can give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with forecasting and cost analysis in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed costs in previous projects, as this will showcase your analytical skills and ability to deliver results.
✨Tip Number 4
Research our company's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding our work and how the Principal Cost Engineer role fits into our goals will help you articulate your interest and alignment with our mission during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Cost Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in engineering and cost estimation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to manage deadlines, as these are key for the Principal Cost Engineer role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your motivation for applying to this position. Mention your background in manufacturing processes and how it aligns with the company's goals. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for working in a dynamic team environment.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your influencing and negotiating skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or led teams, as these qualities are essential for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a Cost Engineer.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Engineer
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Principal Cost Engineer does. Familiarise yourself with cost forecasting, life cycle analysis, and how these processes impact manufacturing. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your knowledge.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss your analytical skills and how you've used them in past roles. Be ready to provide examples of how you've assimilated data from various sources to make informed decisions or improve processes.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As this role involves working with various stakeholders, be prepared to showcase your influencing and negotiating skills. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex information or facilitated meetings to drive results.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's cost engineering processes and how they align with their goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
