Junior / Mid-Level Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor in Manchester

What if you could shape a career as unique as you? At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and chances to work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.

This is an exciting opportunity for an early‑career or developing Cost Manager/Quantity Surveyor to join our client‑facing Cost & Commercial Management Team within WSP’s Project Management & Commercial Management (PMCM) Rail Group. You’ll support the preparation of cost estimates, cost plans and commercial documentation across a range of rail and infrastructure projects. You’ll work closely with experienced colleagues who will help you build confidence, technical capability and professional judgement.

As part of your development, you may spend time embedded within client teams, working directly alongside their project and commercial leads. This offers a unique chance to understand client priorities, build strong relationships and gain hands‑on experience in a real project environment. This role is ideal for someone who is enthusiastic, collaborative and eager to learn.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting the preparation of cost estimates and cost plans
• Assisting with measurement, quantification and benchmarking activities
• Learning to use industry‑standard estimating tools and measurement methods
• Helping prepare commercial reports, tender documentation and client‑facing outputs
• Working with senior colleagues to understand procurement processes and contract requirements
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary WSP teams, clients and suppliers
• Contributing to continuous improvement and knowledge‑sharing within the team
• Gaining experience through placements within client organisations, where appropriate

Your Team

You’ll join a diverse and growing team of Estimators, Cost Managers and Commercial Managers who work across multiple sectors. Our PMCM team includes around 400 professionals across the UK, all passionate about delivering high‑quality work and supporting each other’s development. We’re a friendly, collaborative group that values curiosity, teamwork and professional growth. You’ll be surrounded by people who enjoy mentoring and helping early‑career colleagues progress.

What We’re Looking For

We’re interested in people who bring enthusiasm, potential and a desire to grow. You don’t need to meet every requirement — we value mindset as much as experience.

Key Attributes

• A collaborative approach and willingness to learn
• Strong communication skills and the confidence to engage with colleagues and clients
• A proactive attitude and an interest in problem‑solving
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail

Qualifications & Experience

• A relevant degree or equivalent background in Quantity Surveying, Cost Management or a related field
• Working towards RICS accreditation (or a clear intention to begin this pathway) is essential
• Some exposure to estimating, cost management or quantity surveying (through work, placement or study)
• Familiarity with measurement methods such as RMM1, MMHW or CESMM4 (or willingness to learn)
• Basic understanding of NEC or other standard forms of contract
• Experience with estimating software (e.g., CostX, CANDY) is helpful but not required

Why Join WSP?

• A supportive environment where learning is encouraged and development is structured
• Opportunities to work both within WSP teams and directly within client organisations
• Access to experienced mentors and guidance through your RICS APC journey
• Exposure to nationally significant rail and infrastructure projects
• A culture built on collaboration, respect and continuous improvement

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself? With us, you can. Apply today.