At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage invoices and support finance functions in a structured, detail-focused role.
- Company: Join a stable Tier 1 contractor in the rail and civil engineering sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, training, and long-term career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and make an impact in a growing company.
- Qualifications: Experience in cost administration and strong Excel skills are essential.
- Other info: Hybrid working available with opportunities to travel between regional offices.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 34000 £ per year.
Salary: £30,000 – £34,000 (DOE & travel flexibility)
Location: Manchester, Preston, Derby or Nottingham
Working Pattern: Hybrid – office & home working
Sector: Rail & Civil Engineering (Tier 1 Contractor)
About the Company
Our client is a Tier 1 contractor to Network Rail, delivering a wide range of rail and civil engineering works across the UK. The business provides multi-disciplinary services including civil engineering, infrastructure maintenance and reactive works, operating across multiple live frameworks. The company has grown significantly over recent years while maintaining excellent staff retention and a strong culture of long-term development.
About the Role
The Cost Clerk / Cost Administrator will support the commercial and finance functions by owning the administration and processing of supplier and subcontractor invoices. This is a highly structured, detail-focused role where accuracy and organisation are key. The successful candidate will act as the central point of contact for cost and invoice queries, ensuring all supplier invoices are correctly aligned to purchase orders, cost codes and certification dates within the cost management system.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a central shared inbox receiving invoices from subcontractors and ad-hoc suppliers
- Accurately log, check and process invoices within the cost management system
- Ensure invoices are correctly matched to purchase orders (POs) and cost codes
- Validate invoices against certification dates and contractual requirements
- Place invoices on hold where required and resolve discrepancies
- Act as the first point of contact for supplier, commercial and internal cost queries
- Liaise with project teams, commercial staff and finance to resolve invoice issues
- Maintain clear audit trails and supporting documentation
- Support month-end processes and reporting where required
- Ensure all cost administration processes are followed consistently and accurately
Requirements
Essential:
- Previous experience in a Cost Clerk, Cost Administrator, Accounts Assistant or similar administrative role
- Experience processing invoices and supporting payment processes
- Strong Excel skills and confidence working with spreadsheets and data
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- Confident managing a busy shared inbox and prioritising workloads
Desirable:
- Experience within construction, civil engineering or rail environments
- Familiarity with cost management or finance systems
- Willingness to travel between regional offices when required
Location & Working Pattern
Role can be based from Manchester, Preston, Derby or Nottingham. Hybrid working available. Lower end of salary band (£30k-£32k) applies to candidates based primarily in one office (Derby or Nottingham) with 3 days in the office / 2 days from home. Upper salary band (£32k-£34k+) applies to candidates willing to travel between regional offices (Manchester, Preston, Derby and Nottingham) during working hours. Standard hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm.
Package & Benefits
£30,000 – £34,000 basic salary. Company pension and employee benefits. Training and development opportunities. Long-term career progression within a stable and growing Tier 1 contractor.
Ganymede is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
Cost Clerk/Commercial Administrator employer: Ganymede Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
Ganymede Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Clerk/Commercial Administrator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the rail and civil engineering sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, engage in discussions, and don’t be shy to ask for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions related to cost administration. Think about your past experiences with invoices and data management, and be ready to share specific examples. We want you to shine when it’s your turn to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to tailor your approach! When applying through our website, make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your attention to detail and organisational skills. Show us how your experience aligns with the role of Cost Clerk/Commercial Administrator.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Clerk/Commercial Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Cost Clerk role. Highlight your experience with invoices, data management, and any relevant software skills. We want to see how your background fits perfectly with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with our needs. Keep it concise but engaging – we love a good story!
Show Off Your Attention to Detail: Since this role is all about accuracy, make sure to showcase your attention to detail in your application. Double-check for typos and ensure your formatting is consistent. We appreciate candidates who take pride in their work!
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’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ganymede Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost Clerk, you'll be dealing with invoices and financial data, so brush up on your numerical skills. Familiarise yourself with common financial terms and processes related to cost management. This will help you speak confidently about your experience and how you can contribute to the company's financial accuracy.
✨Showcase Your Organisation Skills
This role requires excellent organisation and attention to detail. Prepare examples from your past work where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or maintained accurate records. Be ready to discuss how you prioritise workloads, especially when handling a busy shared inbox.
✨Excel is Your Best Friend
Since strong Excel skills are essential for this position, make sure you're comfortable discussing your experience with spreadsheets. Consider preparing a few examples of how you've used Excel in previous roles, whether it's for data analysis, invoice processing, or reporting.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research the company’s values and culture before the interview. They pride themselves on stability and long-term development, so think about how your career goals align with theirs. Be prepared to discuss why you want to work in a supportive environment and how you can contribute to their team.