Cost Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Reading; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer in the built environment sector is seeking a Cost Engineer to ensure the accuracy of cost data across complex projects. The role involves collaborating with teams to develop costing tools, conducting audits, and supporting strategic decisions. Ideal candidates will have experience in cost engineering, strong analytical skills, and a background in manufacturing or construction.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in cost engineering or estimating roles.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes.
• Experience in process improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Provide accurate cost calculations for complex products.
• Conduct weekly cost audits and variance analysis.
• Create and maintain cost reports for strategic decisions.

Skills

Data analysis

Cost modelling

Commercial awareness

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication

Process improvement

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Company: [Confidential – Leading Manufacturer in the Built Environment Sector]

Role Purpose

The Cost Engineer is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of cost data across complex products and projects. This role plays a vital part in supporting the Estimating team, developing robust costing tools, driving process improvement, and providing insights that support strategic commercial decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide accurate cost calculations for complex products and projects at tender stage.
• Collaborate with Estimators and other departments to ensure comprehensive costing coverage.

Costing Tools & Process Improvement (10%)

• Develop and enhance costing tools to streamline or automate cost calculation processes.

Cost Auditing & Variance Analysis (15%)

• Conduct weekly cost audits and perform variance analysis to drive cost accuracy improvements.
• Identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities.

Reporting & Decision Support (5%)

• Create and maintain cost reports to support commercial and strategic business decisions.
• Own and maintain the standard costing process for products and services.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a similar cost engineering, estimating, or commercial finance role.
• Strong commercial awareness with a solid understanding of manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated ability in data analysis and cost modelling.
• Familiarity with risk assessment and complex bids.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage conflicting priorities.
• Experience in process improvement initiatives.
• Background in construction, manufacturing, or engineered product environments.

Additional Responsibilities

• Comply with all environmental, health, and safety policies and practices.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to sustainability and waste reduction.
• Ensure compliance with internal systems, quality standards, and regulations.
• Participate in training, administrative tasks, and cross-functional projects as required.
• Undertake business travel when necessary.
• Act in alignment with the company’s core values.