At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cost planning for major rail infrastructure projects and support strategic decision-making.
- Company: CPC, a forward-thinking company in the rail and infrastructure sector.
- Benefits: Private healthcare, hybrid working, travel insurance, and ongoing training support.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with long-term project stability and career growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on high-value rail projects.
- Qualifications: Strong estimating experience and background in rail or civil engineering.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Here at CPC we are seeking an experienced Cost Planner to join a major rail infrastructure programme based in Leeds. This is far more than a traditional estimating role. It’s a strategic, client‑facing cost planning position embedded within a live, high‑value delivery environment, working under an NEC contract framework on complex infrastructure works.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support cost planning activities across major rail infrastructure work packages
- Develop, maintain and interrogate robust cost estimates, forecasts and cost plans throughout the project lifecycle
- Support pricing strategy and commercial decision‑making within an NEC contract environment
- Contribute to risk, value and change management processes
- Work closely with delivery teams, engineers and commercial stakeholders
- Provide cost assurance, benchmarking and challenge to support governance and approvals
- Support forecasting cycles, reporting and wider commercial controls
- Ensure alignment between cost planning, programme delivery and project controls
About You
- Strong experience in estimating
- Background in rail, civil engineering or major infrastructure projects
- Strong understanding of NEC contracts
- Comfortable working in a consultancy or client‑side environment
- Strong commercial awareness and analytical capability
- Able to engage confidently with multiple stakeholders on live programmes
- Proactive, detail‑driven, and comfortable influencing commercial decisions
Location & Working Pattern
- Based in Leeds (short walk from the station)
- Hybrid working: 3 days per week in the office (Tuesday–Thursday)
- Collaborative, programme‑led environment with long‑term project stability
Benefits
- Private healthcare for you and your family (including dental and optical)
- Hybrid and flexible working
- Travel insurance (including winter sports) for you, your partner and dependants
- Support with professional memberships and ongoing training
- Personal performance bonus and annual salary reviews
Diversity & Inclusion
CPC is an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to providing an inclusive environment for professional growth and development.
Cost Planner – Transport & Infrastructure – Rail in Leeds employer: CPC Project Services LLP
CPC is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in Leeds, where you can thrive as a Cost Planner within a major rail infrastructure programme. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive benefits including private healthcare, hybrid working options, and support for professional development, ensuring that our team members are well-equipped to succeed in their roles while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Planner – Transport & Infrastructure – Rail in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the rail and infrastructure sectors, especially those who work with NEC contracts. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your cost planning knowledge and understanding of NEC contracts. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to rail projects to show you’re the right fit.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex cost estimates or managed risks in past projects. Real-life examples will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Planner – Transport & Infrastructure – Rail in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Cost Planner role. Highlight your background in rail, civil engineering, or major infrastructure projects to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this strategic, client-facing position. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of NEC contracts and how you can contribute to our team.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves cost planning and commercial decision-making, be sure to demonstrate your analytical capabilities. Share examples of how you've successfully managed costs or influenced decisions in past projects.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at CPC Project Services LLP
✨Know Your NEC Contracts
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of NEC contracts before the interview. This role requires a strong grasp of these frameworks, so be ready to discuss how you've applied them in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Cost Planning Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've developed and maintained cost estimates and forecasts in previous roles. Highlight any complex infrastructure projects you've worked on, as this will demonstrate your relevant experience.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this position involves working closely with various stakeholders, think about how you can showcase your communication skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully engaged with delivery teams and commercial stakeholders in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Capability
This role requires strong analytical skills, so come prepared with examples of how you've used data to influence commercial decisions. Discuss any tools or methodologies you've employed to support your cost planning activities.
