Assistant Cost Manager in Belfast

Your new company HAYS Property & Surveying NI are proudly working in collaboration with a highly respected, established multidisciplinary consultancy in their search for an Assistant Cost Manager to join their Belfast team. This organisation plays a pivotal role in delivering complex building and infrastructure projects across Northern Ireland and beyond, with expertise spanning across most, if not all, the built environment and construction commanding a significant presence within the marketplace.

Due to continued growth, our client has an exciting opportunity available for an Assistant Cost Manager to join the growing team in Belfast. The role involves working with a key client gaining valuable experience on infrastructure and buildings projects. The successful candidate will provide support to the Commercial Manager and wider Contracts and Framework team for construction delivery, cost management and performance measurement.

Your new role As part of the Cost Management Team, you’ll play an active role in managing the financial aspects of building projects — from early design and planning through to completion, and in some cases, the ongoing costs associated with operation and maintenance once the building is in use.

Working with one of the key clients and carrying out the following responsibilities:

• Responsible for verifying and certifying payment of suppliers and ensuring the correct amount is paid.
• Development of procedures and systems for project cost management in order to develop efficiency and / or assurance of value for money.
• Prepare and present monthly reports showing cost position and contract performance on allocated projects to keep project teams informed.
• Assist in the development and compiling of NEC4 contract documents for projects – construction and professional services.
• Review existing contract documents on allocated projects and provide advice to project managers on contractual obligations to ensure compliance with the contract.
• Support the wider teams ensuring compliance with procedures for construction works.
• Other cost and contract management duties as required.

What you’ll need to succeed Essential Some early experience in a construction contract environment. Experience in measurement and valuation of construction works. Experience of using MS Office 365 including Word and Excel. Understanding of building and civil construction technology and associated supply chain. Ability to deal with colleagues and wider project teams in a professional and confident manner. Ability to work to and meet deadlines. Excellent communication skills.

Desirable NEC Contract Experience. Understanding of budget control and management of budgets. Strong numeracy and financial management ability.

What you’ll get in return offering a wide range of benefits that support both personal and professional growth. These include hybrid working arrangements that promote work–life balance, competitive maternity and paternity packages, and a well‑rewarded structure with a strong salary and generous holiday allowance, plus the option to purchase additional leave. There is a strong focus on wellbeing, with access to health and wellness initiatives such as gym memberships and cycle‑to‑work schemes, alongside comprehensive healthcare packages that include private medical insurance, dental cover and eyecare support. Continuous development is encouraged through structured learning programmes, APC pathways and in‑house mentoring. Employees also benefit from additional perks such as season ticket loans and professional membership subscriptions. You’ll gain exceptional exposure by working on a variety of projects across different sectors and regions, while a commitment to social responsibility brings opportunities to take part in team events, charity fundraising and volunteering activities.

If you’re interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.