At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cost management for cutting-edge lab and research projects across the UK and Europe.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking firm dedicated to equality, diversity, and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, mentoring opportunities, and a commitment to your professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and innovative ideas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in life sciences while working on high-profile projects.
- Qualifications: Chartered Quantity Surveyor or equivalent with experience in scientific facilities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We're expanding our Life Sciences & Research Cost Management team and seeking an experienced Senior Cost Consultant (Quantity Surveying background) with direct experience on laboratory and scientific environments. You will deliver high‐profile research, technology and life‐science facilities for national and global clients—ensuring projects are accurately costed, commercially controlled and delivered on time and on budget.
Role Accountabilities
- Provide Quantity Surveying and Cost Management services for science facility projects across the UK & Europe, with a focus on London, Oxford and Cambridge hubs
- Lead client‐facing cost modelling, feasibility and budgeting exercises for labs and specialised scientific spaces
- Prepare detailed cost estimates and benchmark analyses to optimise value and inform decisions
- Manage procurement processes, evaluate contractor proposals and negotiate commercial terms
- Oversee contract administration, cost control and change management from inception to completion
- Mentor and coach junior QS staff and contribute to technical standards and digital workflows
- Drive improvements in cost management processes and adoption of digital tools
Qualifications & Experience
- Chartered Quantity Surveyor (MRICS desirable) or equivalent
- Proven QS experience costing and delivering laboratory, research or other scientific facilities
- Strong commercial and technical understanding of MEP‐intensive cost drivers
- Clear client‐facing communication and ability to present cost advice to stakeholders
- Proficient with digital cost tools (e.g., CostX, 5D BIM) and benchmarking techniques
Commitment to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We want you to be able to bring your best self to work every day which is why we take equality and inclusion seriously and hold ourselves to account for our actions. Our ambition is to be an employer of choice and provide a great place to work for all our people. We believe that by working together diverse people with different experiences develop the most innovative ideas. Equality, diversity and inclusion is at the heart of how we improve quality of life and we work closely with our people across six ED&I Workstreams: Age, Disability, Faith, Gender, LGBT+ and Race. A diverse and skilled workforce is essential to our success.
Senior Cost Manager in Oxford employer: Poutrix
As a leading employer in the Life Sciences & Research sector, we offer an exceptional work environment that prioritises equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring every employee can thrive. Our London, Oxford, and Cambridge hubs provide unique opportunities for professional growth, with access to high-profile projects and cutting-edge digital tools, fostering innovation and collaboration among our talented team. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive culture that values your contributions and encourages mentorship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Cost Manager in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in life sciences or cost management. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous projects, especially those related to laboratory and scientific environments. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers, especially around cost management and client-facing scenarios. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Cost Manager in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your Quantity Surveying experience, especially in laboratory and scientific environments. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects you've worked on!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about cost management in the life sciences sector. We love seeing enthusiasm, so let us know what excites you about this opportunity.
Showcase Your Digital Skills:Since we’re keen on digital tools like CostX and 5D BIM, make sure to mention your proficiency with these or similar software. Highlight any specific projects where you’ve used these tools to drive improvements in cost management.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. 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 Poutrix
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Cost Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in cost estimation and budgeting. Brush up on your knowledge of MEP-intensive cost drivers and be ready to discuss specific examples from your past projects. This will show that you understand the intricacies of costing in laboratory and scientific environments.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Client-facing roles require clear communication. Prepare to present your cost advice confidently and concisely. Think about how you can explain complex cost models or procurement processes in simple terms. Practising with a friend or mentor can help you refine your delivery.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Digital Tools
Since proficiency with digital cost tools is essential, make sure you're comfortable discussing your experience with software like CostX or 5D BIM. If you have any recent projects where you used these tools, be prepared to share how they improved your cost management processes.
✨Emphasise Your Mentoring Experience
As this role involves mentoring junior QS staff, think about your past experiences in coaching or leading teams. Be ready to share specific instances where you helped others grow or contributed to technical standards. This will highlight your leadership skills and commitment to developing talent within the team.
