Assistant Cost Planner

Stratus Search & Recruitment; England; On-site; GBP 49,500 - 60,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Bonus

Healthcare

Pension

Structured career progression

Job summary

A leading residential developer in London is seeking an ambitious Assistant Cost Planner to join their head office. The role involves supporting Senior Cost Planners in preparing feasibility studies and cost plans for high-value projects. Ideal candidates have a degree in Quantity Surveying and 1–3 years of relevant experience. This position offers a salary of up to £55,000, along with a car allowance, bonuses, healthcare, and pension, and provides structured progression to Cost Planner level.

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• 1–3 years’ experience with a developer, main contractor, or cost consultancy.
• Experience with CostX or similar software desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support Senior Cost Planners in preparing feasibility studies, cost plans, and budget estimates.
• Assist with benchmarking, cost analysis, and data modelling.
• Contribute to value engineering exercises to enhance design efficiency.

Skills

Strong numerical skills

Analytical skills

Excel skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Passion for design-led development

Proactive attitude

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Management

Tools

CostX

Job description

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.