Assistant Cost Planner – Leading Residential Developer (City of London)
Location: City of London (Head Office)
Salary: Up to £55,000 basic + excellent package (car allowance, bonus, healthcare, and pension)
Employer: Prestigious London Residential Developer
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious Assistant Cost Planner to join one of the UK’s most respected and design‑led residential developers, based in their City of London Head Office.
This award‑winning organisation is renowned for delivering high‑quality, design‑driven developments across London — from luxury high‑rise towers to major regeneration schemes that transform entire neighbourhoods. Financially robust and highly regarded, they continue to set new standards for craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainable design in the capital.
As an Assistant Cost Planner, you’ll work closely with Senior Cost Planners and the Commercial Director, gaining exposure to the full lifecycle of early‑stage development — including feasibility studies, cost modelling, benchmarking, and value engineering.
This is a career‑defining opportunity for someone looking to progress to Cost Planner level, supported by structured training, mentorship, and long‑term professional development within one of London’s most successful developers.
Responsibilities
- Support Senior Cost Planners in preparing feasibility studies, cost plans, and budget estimates for high‑value London projects.
- Assist with benchmarking, cost analysis, and data modelling to inform early‑stage design and land appraisals.
- Contribute to value engineering exercises to enhance design efficiency and cost effectiveness.
- Maintain accurate cost data, market trends, and supply chain intelligence.
- Assist in preparing commercial reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and the Commercial Director.
- Collaborate with design, technical, and development teams to align financial goals with design intent.
- Help maintain and develop internal cost databases and benchmarking tools.
Skills & Experience Required
- Degree-qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
- Ideally 1–3 years’ experience with a developer, main contractor, or cost consultancy.
- Strong numerical, analytical, and Excel skills; experience with CostX or similar software desirable.
- Excellent attention to detail, communication, and organisation.
- Passionate about design‑led residential development and commercial strategy.
- Ambitious, proactive, and eager to develop towards Cost Planner level.
- Gain hands‑on experience across projects from £100m to £1bn+, influencing design and cost strategy.
- Structured progression to Cost Planner level, with mentoring from senior commercial leaders.
- Direct exposure to the Commercial Director and senior decision‑makers.
- Supportive, collaborative environment that invests in training, RICS support, and professional growth.
- Help shape the financial blueprint of landmark London developments from concept to delivery.
What’s on Offer
- Up to £55,000 basic salary + car allowance, bonus, healthcare, and pension.
- Career progression to Cost Planner and Senior Cost Planner levels.
- Opportunity to work on high‑value, design‑led residential developments.
- Stable, long‑term position within a financially secure and respected developer.
- Inclusive, high‑performance culture that nurtures ambition and innovation.
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please apply.
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Assistant Cost Planner employer: Stratus Search & Recruitment
Stratus Recruitment is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where you can thrive as a Cost Manager. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we provide opportunities for progression to Senior QS roles, alongside competitive bonuses and a flexible salary package. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and professional development, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the residential projects sector.
Contact Details:
Stratus Search & Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Cost Planner
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Stratus Search & Recruitment, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Assistant Cost Planner at Stratus Search & Recruitment.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stratus Search & Recruitment
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
