At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage project costs and ensure accurate financial reporting for a major energy project.
- Company: Join Sizewell C, one of the UK's largest energy projects with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, hybrid working, and generous holiday leave.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with clear progression opportunities and supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a national infrastructure project while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in cost management and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Sizewell C is entering an exciting phase of growth as we mature into an independent organisation and continue building one of the UK's largest and most important energy projects. We are now recruiting the below position.
SD Cost Manager
Location: Ipswich, London
Contract:Permanent, full-time.
Closing Date: Monday 17th August 2026
What'sin It for You:
- Salary: Competitive (depending on experience)
- Bonus: 5% annual incentive
- Pension: Up to 7.5% employee / 15% employer contribution
- Leave: 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Hybrid Working:Typically,2-3 days in the office per week, with flexibility based on business needs
Your Impact
As Cost Manager you will join the PMO Cost Team and report directly to the Site Delivery Cost Lead.
You will be deployed within the Site Delivery Programme, undertaking day-to-day activities as directed by the Site Delivery Senior Cost Manager. Your role will support the delivery of accurate and timely project information relating to performance against the project baseline and will be responsible for administering effective cost control as part of the programme's integrated delivery team.
You will drive cost performance reporting for the Programme, including Earned Value (EV) analysis associated with key commitments and expenditures.
The role will encompass responsibility for the collation and analysis of Programme cost information in accordance with the Cost Management Procedure, supporting the timely and accurate submission of data by Project Teams. The Cost Manager will work closely with the Supply Chain and Finance teams to ensure that accurate accruals and contract cost performance are appropriately captured, and that effective analysis is undertaken against the baseline.
The Cost Manager will be responsible for Programme-level cost analysis, supporting the achievement of Programme objectives, and liaising with Project Controls teams to ensure a consistent approach to cost management across the Programme.
Principal Accountabilities
As Cost Manager you will be responsible for:
- Supporting the Cost Lead with the implementation of appropriate cost systems, procedures and working templates.
- Support to Project teams to ensure timely and accurate cost information submission on a regular basis, to include reporting on EAC, ETC, ACWP and comparison to the baseline
- Tracking of actual costs against appropriate cost control structures
- Support the Cost Lead in executing cost re-baseline exercises, forecast and budget updates as appropriate
- Undertake analyses of the Project Cost information to support Programme objectives incl. earned value, trend analysis
- Work closely with the finance and commercial teams to ensure accurate accruals and contract costs are included within the overall EAC and performance reports.
- Analysis of Change Requests ensuring cost data is correctly identified/coded (CBS) and change requests are aligned with budgets
- Responsible for supporting the project teams in the use of the cost tools, acting as point of contact for basic user support/training
- Support the identification, quantification and reporting of cost risks and opportunities within project forecasts and programme reporting.
- Analyse cost variances against budget and baseline and provide insight and recommendations for corrective actions.
Key Stakeholders and Relationships
The post holder will be required to work collaboratively and proactively with multiple stakeholders including but not limited to:
- Project Managers
- Project Controls
- Schedulers
- Change Managers
- Reporting Managers
- Supply Chain
Experience, Knowledge, & Qualifications
- Pro-active and able to thrive in a fast-past and dynamic environment.
- Working knowledge of cost management functions, including cost estimating, cost control, and cost analysis.
- Experience of identifying, analysing, and solving problems.
- Ability to communicate cost and performance information to peers/managers
- Excellent Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
- Good attention to detail and skilled in interpreting and analysing cost data.
- Comfortable with challenging assumptions and processes in order to constantly improve the delivery of performance data.
- Strong understanding/ working knowledge of Cost management systems (such as EcoSys)
- Strong understanding/ working knowledge of Earned Value Methodologies
- Experience of programme reporting and data visualisation tools such as Power BI.
- Ability to challenge, influence and communicate complex cost and performance information to project leadership teams.
Desirable skill:
- Educated to professional standard and membership of an appropriate body and to degree level or equivalent
- Knowledge of engineering, procurement, forms of contracts and construction generally
- Proven experience and knowledge of engineering and construction management.
- Experienced in working within Project Controls in a Major Programme environment
Why Join Us
- A major infrastructure project with national impact
- Hybrid working with flexibility built in
- Competitive salary,bonusand benefits
- Clear progression and development opportunities
- Supportive, collaborative team environment
Behavioural Competences
Humility
- Recognise the value brought from different cultures and experiences.
- Be open to other's points of view and ideas, be willing to debate and to compromise.
Positivity
- Positively challenge poor quality and performance.
- Identify solutions at the lowest possible level.
- Encourage others to bring new ideas forward.
Respect
- Value the rules and environment in which we operate.
- Give and receive feedback with respect.
- Embrace and engage with new people and ideas.
Solidarity
- One team, working closely together and helping each other.
- Empowered teams always looking forward.
- Shared responsibility for delivery the project outcomes.
Clarity
- Communicate clearly and consistently.
- Promote collaboration and team alignment.
- Clearer and faster decision making.
- Drive simplification at all levels.
SD Cost Manager employer: Sizewell C
As a leading employer in the infrastructure sector, we offer a dynamic work environment in Bristol that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for career advancement, ensuring that you can thrive in your role as Commercial Lead. With competitive salaries and a supportive culture, we prioritise the well-being of our team while driving impactful projects that shape the future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SD Cost Manager
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughSizewell C's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through Sizewell C's website for the full-time SD Cost Manager role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace SD Cost Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Sizewell C. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sizewell C
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of Sizewell C.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to Sizewell C.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
