Cost Engineer

UK Staffing Group Limited; Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing agency is seeking a Cost Engineer for a permanent, full-time role in Manchester. The successful candidate will develop competitive cost estimates for infrastructure projects and work closely with project managers and engineers. Applicants need a degree in Civil Engineering or a related field, alongside 3-5 years of experience in cost engineering. Strong analytical, numerical, and communication skills are essential for this role, offering opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years' experience in cost engineering/estimating for infrastructure projects.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Produce detailed and accurate cost estimates for infrastructure projects.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to validate data.
• Prepare and present cost reports with insights and recommendations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Numerical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Time management

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field

Tools

CostX

Microsoft Excel

Primavera P6

AutoCAD

Power BI

Job description

Cost Engineer - Permanent, Full-Time Manchester

Experience: 3-5 years in cost engineering or estimations

Sector: Infrastructure (B2B estimation services)

About the Role: Manchester Staff are working with a dynamic and innovative company in the construction industry looking for a Cost Engineer to develop accurate, competitive cost estimates for infrastructure projects, working closely with internal teams and external stakeholders. The role involves analysing project documentation, preparing detailed estimates, and supporting tender submissions.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce detailed and accurate cost estimates for infrastructure projects.
• Analyse project plans, specifications, and documentation to define scope and identify cost efficiencies.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and wider teams to gather and validate data.
• Maintain and update estimating databases, spreadsheets, and cost records.
• Prepare and present cost reports with insights and recommendations.
• Support tender and bid preparation to ensure competitive, compliant submissions.
• Conduct market research on materials, labour rates, and industry trends.
• Review subcontractor and supplier quotations to identify cost‑effective options.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and best practices.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related field.
• 3-5 years' experience in cost engineering/estimating for infrastructure projects.
• Strong numerical, analytical, and data‑handling skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
• Experience with estimating tools (e.g., CostX, Candy).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Strong time‑management and ability to meet deadlines.

Personal Attributes

• Motivated, enthusiastic, and proactive.
• Adaptable with strong multitasking ability.
• Effective problem‑solver with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Positive attitude and eagerness to learn.

Knowledge of Standards & Regulations

• CESMM, NEC, JCT contract forms.
• CDM Regulations 2015.
• Awareness of Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR).

Software Proficiency

• Estimating: Benchmark, CostX, Candy.
• Project Management: MS Project, Primavera P6.
• CAD: AutoCAD, Civil 3D.
• BIM: Revit, Navisworks.
• Data Analysis: Excel, Power BI.

Desirable Certifications

• Chartered status (ICE, RICS, CIOB).
• Project management certifications (PRINCE2, PMP, APM).
• Cost engineering certifications (AACE CCP/CEP).

Additional Information

• Based in Manchester with occasional travel.
• Reports to Senior Estimator or Estimating Manager.
• Supportive environment with strong professional development opportunities.

Apply

Please send your CV for immediate consideration either by clicking apply now or sending directly. This is an immediate requirement with interviews taking place over the next week.

No discrimination on age. We accept applications from persons of any age for this role.