At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor and control project costs while collaborating with teams for accurate forecasting.
- Company: Dynamic engineering firm focused on major infrastructure projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and clear career development pathways.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for process improvements and strategic input.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and influence financial performance on high-profile projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in cost engineering or project controls; strong analytical skills required.
Darlington, Permanent - Full time, Hybrid (4 days on site)
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 basic + benefits
About the Role
We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-driven Cost Engineer to join our growing Project Controls function. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced project environments and enjoys working closely with both project teams and finance to ensure accurate forecasting, robust cost control, and strong commercial insight across the project lifecycle.
You will play a key role in monitoring, controlling, and forecasting project costs, while supporting the development of reliable financial models and ensuring timely, accurate reporting for stakeholders. This position offers excellent exposure to major projects and the opportunity to influence financial performance and decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce weekly and monthly cost reports, including cashflow, actuals, forecasts (ETC/EAC), variance analysis, risks, and opportunities.
- Ensure timely collection, validation, and processing of cost data (POs, invoices, timesheets, schedules, contracts, subcontractor data, day rates, DPRs).
- Work closely with Project Managers, department leads, and budget holders to support accurate project forecasting.
- Maintain and update the Cost Management System (CMS), ensuring accuracy in labour summaries, POs, supplier invoices, and project schedules.
- Participate in monthly cost review meetings and present financial updates to senior stakeholders.
- Assist with financial planning, budgeting, and modelling for strategic initiatives.
- Support the implementation and ongoing development of business intelligence tools, dashboards, and cost models.
- Liaise closely with finance and treasury teams to ensure smooth data flow and reliable month-end reporting.
- Analyse KPIs, investigate variances, and provide recommendations to improve financial performance.
- Support tender feedback processes and contribute to continual improvement of project budgeting and forecasting procedures.
What We're Looking For
Essential:
- HNC/HND or equivalent in a cost-related or numerate discipline, or strong relevant experience.
- Experience in Cost Engineering, Cost Control, or Project Controls within engineering, construction, offshore, manufacturing, or similar industries.
- Strong numeracy and analytical capability with proven ability to reconcile complex cost information.
- Good working knowledge of MS Office (Excel in particular).
Desirable:
- Degree-level qualification in a relevant discipline.
- Experience across full project lifecycles.
- Familiarity with cost management systems or BI tools.
Key Behaviours
- Exceptional attention to detail with strong commercial awareness.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Highly organised, self-motivated, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to challenge and question cost data constructively.
- Collaborative approach, with confidence working across multiple departments.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work on high-profile engineering and infrastructure projects.
- Clear development pathways within Project Controls and Finance.
- Supportive team culture with scope to contribute to process improvements and strategic decision-making.
Cost Engineer/Project Controls Engineer in Darlington employer: Shorterm Group
As a leading employer in the civil engineering sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture at Heathrow Airport. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through structured training programmes and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that you can advance your career while contributing to vital infrastructure projects. With a focus on safety and excellence, we offer a dynamic environment where your expertise will be valued and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Engineer/Project Controls Engineer in Darlington
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Cost Engineer/Project Controls Engineer role you’re after at Shorterm Group.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Shorterm Group a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Shorterm Group.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Cost Engineer/Project Controls Engineer at Shorterm Group, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Engineer/Project Controls Engineer in Darlington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Cost Engineer/Project Controls Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Shorterm Group a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Shorterm Group specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorterm Group
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Shorterm Group, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Shorterm Group want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
