Cost Engineer

Cost Engineer

Reading Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
J

At a Glance

  • Tasks: As a Cost Engineer, you'll calculate costs and support the Estimating team on exciting projects.
  • Company: Join a leading manufacturer in the built environment sector, known for innovation and quality.
  • Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for process improvement, professional development, and a collaborative work culture.
  • Why this job: This role offers a chance to impact strategic decisions while working with cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: You need experience in cost engineering, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in Excel.
  • Other info: Be part of a company that values sustainability and continuous improvement in all operations.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

The Cost Engineer is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of cost data across complex products and projects. This role plays a vital part in supporting the Estimating team, developing robust costing tools, driving process improvement, and providing insights that support strategic commercial decisions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide accurate cost calculations for complex products and projects at tender stage.
  • Collaborate with Estimators and other departments to ensure comprehensive costing coverage.
  • Costing Tools & Process Improvement (10%) Develop and enhance costing tools to streamline or automate cost calculation processes.
  • Cost Auditing & Variance Analysis (15%) Conduct weekly cost audits and perform variance analysis to drive cost accuracy improvements. Identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities.
  • Reporting & Decision Support (5%) Create and maintain cost reports to support commercial and strategic business decisions. Own and maintain the standard costing process for products and services.

Skills & Experience

  • Proven experience in a similar cost engineering, estimating, or commercial finance role.
  • Strong commercial awareness with a solid understanding of manufacturing processes.
  • Demonstrated ability in data analysis and cost modelling.
  • Familiarity with risk assessment and complex bids.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage conflicting priorities.
  • Experience in process improvement initiatives.
  • Background in construction, manufacturing, or engineered product environments.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Comply with all environmental, health, and safety policies and practices.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to sustainability and waste reduction.
  • Ensure compliance with internal systems, quality standards, and regulations.
  • Participate in training, administrative tasks, and cross-functional projects as required.
  • Undertake business travel when necessary.
  • Act in alignment with the company’s core values.

Cost Engineer employer: JR United Kingdom

As a leading manufacturer in the built environment sector, our company offers an exceptional work culture that prioritises collaboration, innovation, and employee development. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and sustainability, we provide our Cost Engineers with robust growth opportunities, comprehensive training, and the chance to contribute to strategic commercial decisions. Located in a vibrant area, we also offer competitive benefits and a supportive environment that values your contributions and fosters professional advancement.
J

Contact Detail:

JR United Kingdom Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Cost Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest costing tools and software relevant to the construction and manufacturing sectors. Being well-versed in these tools will not only enhance your application but also demonstrate your proactive approach to process improvement.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the cost engineering field, especially those who work in similar environments. Attend industry events or join online forums to gain insights and potentially get referrals that could help you land the job.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've contributed to cost accuracy improvements in previous roles. Highlighting your analytical skills and experience with variance analysis will set you apart during interviews.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on industry trends and challenges within the built environment sector. Showing that you understand the market dynamics and can provide strategic insights will make you a more attractive candidate for the Cost Engineer role.

We think you need these skills to ace Cost Engineer

Cost Calculation
Data Analysis
Cost Modelling
Variance Analysis
Cost Auditing
Process Improvement
Commercial Awareness
Microsoft Excel Proficiency
Analytical Skills
Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving Skills
Attention to Detail
Project Management
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Cost Engineer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in cost engineering, estimating, or commercial finance.

Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your skills in data analysis, cost modelling, and process improvement. Mention your proficiency in Microsoft Excel and any experience with costing tools that could be beneficial for the role.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that connects your background to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to provide accurate cost calculations and support strategic decisions.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. Ensure that your documents are well-organised and clearly present your qualifications, as attention to detail is crucial for this role.

How to prepare for a job interview at JR United Kingdom

✨Know Your Numbers

As a Cost Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to provide accurate cost calculations. Brush up on your costing methodologies and be prepared to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles.

✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills

Highlight your experience with data analysis and cost modelling. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've identified trends or anomalies in cost data and the impact of your findings on decision-making.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools

Since developing costing tools is part of the role, make sure you’re familiar with relevant software, especially Excel. You might be asked about your proficiency, so consider preparing a few examples of how you've used these tools effectively.

✨Communicate Clearly

Excellent communication skills are crucial for this position. Practice articulating complex ideas simply and clearly, as you may need to explain your cost reports and analyses to non-technical stakeholders.

Cost Engineer
JR United Kingdom
J
  • Cost Engineer

    Reading
    Full-Time
    43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-06-10

  • J

    JR United Kingdom

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