At a Glance
- Tasks: Support cost estimates and plans for exciting rail and infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in project management and commercial management.
- Benefits: Structured development, mentorship, and opportunities to work on significant projects.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and build relationships while learning from industry experts.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and enthusiasm for cost management or quantity surveying.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture focused on growth and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 ÂŁ per year.
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
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.
Junior / Mid-Level Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor in Birmingham employer: WSP
Contact Detail:
WSP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior / Mid-Level Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WSP and understanding their projects. Show your enthusiasm for the role and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. Confidence is key, so practice your responses!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications after a week or two. A quick email expressing your continued interest can set you apart from other candidates and shows your proactive attitude.
✨Tip Number 4
Utilise our website to find roles that match your skills and interests. We’ve got a range of opportunities waiting for you, so don’t hesitate to apply and take the first step towards an exciting career with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior / Mid-Level Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the role of a Cost Manager/Quantity Surveyor. Highlight any relevant projects or coursework that showcase your understanding of cost management and estimating.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're excited about this opportunity at WSP. Share your enthusiasm for learning and collaborating, and mention any specific experiences that demonstrate your proactive attitude and problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key in this role, make sure your application is clear and well-structured. Use concise language and avoid jargon, so we can easily see your potential to engage with colleagues and clients.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people and allows us to keep track of all candidates efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your cost estimation skills and be ready to discuss specific methods you've used or studied. Familiarity with measurement methods like RMM1 or MMHW will impress the interviewers, so make sure you can talk about them confidently.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
WSP is looking for candidates who are eager to learn and grow. Be sure to express your passion for the field of Quantity Surveying and your excitement about the opportunity to work on diverse projects. Share examples of how you've demonstrated this enthusiasm in past experiences.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team. Inquire about the types of projects you'll be involved in or how the team collaborates with clients. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key at WSP, be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight your communication skills and any experiences where you've contributed to a group's success, as this aligns with their values of teamwork and support.