Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manage project costs and support the UK submarine programme.
- Company: Be part of a leading defence company focused on innovative infrastructure projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: This role offers hands-on experience in project management within a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Ideal candidates have a background in project controls or cost management; qualifications are a plus.
- Other info: Contract duration is 6 months with a pay rate of £300 - £400 per day.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Job Description
Cost Specialist – Defence
Cost Specialist – Defence
The location of the role is Plymouth (hybrid working).
The duration of the contract is 6 months.
The pay rate on offer is £300 – £400 per day via Umbrella.
Business Unit: Submarines
Role Summary
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join the Project Management Office (PMO) with responsibility for the delivery of project planning services across the Capital Investment Portfolio (£50m-£100m per annum). The Capital Investment Portfolio covers the delivery of Infrastructure Projects across the DRDL site. This is an exciting opportunity to become a part of a highly capable and motivated team as we continue to grow and deliver complex outputs in support of the UK submarine programme.
This role will suit candidates with a background in project controls, cost management; looking for a change in direction and a strong desire to develop themselves, as well as people with existing project experience in a supporting role.
Key accountabilities of the role
Covering a wide range of projects, the successful candidate shall be responsible for providing professional cost management services across the Capital Investment Portfolio Team. The role will provide a key interface between project managers, commercial, engineering, construction, projects, subcontractors and supply chain functions to aid the effective scheduling of the projects undertaken. Other responsibilities may include;
- Develop/implement and maintain the Project Baseline Budgets
- Responsible for the monitor, control and validation of project’s accruals and commitments and the control of resource and financial forecast data
- Management and control of cost risk budget
- Management and control of financial change management on the Programme
- Provision of internal and external financial performance & cost reports including earned value and variation analysis.
- Provision of key reporting outputs such as Cost Breakdown Structures, EVM/Cost reports, Project Out-turns against CBS, Estimates at Completion, Lessons learned updates
Key skills and experience
A background in Project Management and/or Scheduling/Cost Control is ideal.
The following attributes are considered for this role:
- APM EVM L1 (Desired but not essential)
- APM PPC Foundation (Desired but not essential)
- APM PFQ (Desired but not essential)
- Experience in Project Management (Desired but not essential)
- Finance Accounting Background (Desired but not essential)
- Level 3 Qualification
Cost Specialist employer: Undisclosed
Contact Detail:
Undisclosed Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific project management methodologies and tools used in the defence sector. Understanding frameworks like Earned Value Management (EVM) can give you an edge, as they are often crucial for roles like the Cost Specialist.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence industry, especially those involved in project management and cost control. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the role's expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the specific projects under the Capital Investment Portfolio at DRDL. Being knowledgeable about ongoing and upcoming projects will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how your previous experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Cost Specialist role. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed budgets or contributed to project planning, as these will be key talking points during your discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project management, cost management, and any specific skills mentioned in the job description. Use keywords from the job listing to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your background in project controls and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the Cost Specialist position.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any qualifications related to project management or finance, such as APM certifications, be sure to mention them prominently. Even if they are desired but not essential, they can set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since the role involves financial performance and cost reporting, provide examples of how you've successfully managed budgets or conducted financial analysis in previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability in handling the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
How to prepare for a job interview at Undisclosed
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of a Cost Specialist. Familiarise yourself with terms like 'Project Baseline Budgets' and 'Cost Breakdown Structures' as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in project management or cost control. Highlight specific projects where you successfully managed budgets or provided financial reports, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few insightful questions ready to ask the interviewer about the Capital Investment Portfolio or the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm
Express your motivation for joining the Project Management Office and your desire to develop your skills further. Companies appreciate candidates who are eager to learn and grow within their organisation.
