Graduate Cost Manager - Evolve

Ridge and Partners LLP; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Funding for Master’s degree

Mentor programme

CPD opportunities

Networking events

Job summary

Ridge is a Built Environment Consultancy inviting graduates to join the Autumn 2027 Evolve programme in our Cardiff office. You’ll work on live projects, learning cost planning, procurement and contract administration with experienced professionals and mentors.

The two-year programme supports professional development, chartership ambitions, CPD opportunities and a strong network within Ridge’s Future Talent community.

Qualifications

• 2:1 bachelor’s degree in Cost Management or Quantity Surveying or a related degree (2026/2027).
• Bachelor’s in another subject with a relevant Master’s degree can also qualify.
• Available to start full-time from September 2027.
• Permanent Right to Work in the UK; no visa sponsorship needed.
• Demonstrates curiosity and eagerness to learn and passion for the Built Environment.

Responsibilities

• Two-year Evolve graduate programme with on-the-job learning on live projects.
• Gain experience in cost planning, procurement, tendering, contract administration, valuations, change control and financial reporting.
• Collaborate with clients, designers and contractors to understand project delivery.

Skills

Curiosity

Eagerness to learn

Passion for Built Environment

Education

2:1 Cost Management / Quantity Surveying

Bachelor’s + Master’s in related field

Job description

If you’re ready to launch a meaningful career in Cost Management, applications are now open for recent and upcoming Cost Management or Quantity Surveying Graduates to join our Autumn 2027 Evolve graduate programme within our Cardiff office.

and be ready for virtual assessments and in-person interviews shortly after. Successful candidates will have an offer on the table prior to Christmas 2026 or early 2027 for a start in the Autumn 2027.

What's the role?

Ridge is a Built Environment Consultancy. This is all about the human-made spaces and structures that support how and where we live, work and play. It’s everything from individual buildings to entire cities and the infrastructure that connects them. If you’re fired up by the thought of an impactful and rewarding career shaping that environment, working in expert teams and getting down to the nitty gritty of our clients’ challenges, then read on!

Our two-year Evolve graduate programme develops and supports the next generation of Built Environment professionals. As a Graduate Cost Manager at Ridge you will benefit from on-the-job learning experiences while working on live projects across a range of sectors. You’ll build practical experience in cost planning, procurement, tendering, contract administration, valuations, change control and financial reporting. Working alongside experienced professionals, you’ll collaborate with clients, designers and contractors, gaining a rounded understanding of how successful projects are developed and delivered.

What do I need to succeed?

Our People Are At The Heart Of Everything We Do. You’ll Play An Integral Part In Our Team, Helping Drive Our Vision, Living Our Values And Embracing Our Culture. So, If Your Answer Is Yes To All The Following Statements, We’d Love To Hear From You

• I have or am predicted a 2:1 bachelor’s degree in Cost Management, Quantity Surveying or a closely related degree obtained in 2026/2027 or I hold a bachelor’s degree in another subject together with a relevant Master’s degree
• I am available to start work full-time from September 2027
• I have a permanent Right to Work in the UK and do not need visa sponsorship.
• I am curious and eager to learn
• I am passionate about the Built Environment - don’t take this one lightly! We love what we do and the Built Environment plays a vital role in the future of communities and society. It’s important we all share that passion so we can build legacies that last.

How will my career be supported?

Your Development Is Our Priority, So You Can Count On Having The Right Tools, Plenty Of Experience And The Professional Support You Need To Succeed. Here’s What You Can Expect In Your First Two Years

Professional support

• If you want to take your existing degree on to a Master’s, we can fund that
• If you already hold an accredited degree for our industry, we have established guidance and a large network of internal ‘chartership champions’ who will support you to gain your professional chartership

Technical learning

• We have a full timetable of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, such as webinars, short courses and masterclasses, to enhance your skills in focused areas
• You’ll be allocated an experienced and knowledgeable mentor to be your trusted advisor throughout your programme

Personal Skills

• A tailored development plan will clearly map out opportunities for growth such as strengthening your soft skills and leadership
• You’ll become a STEM ambassador, inspiring future generations of Built Environment professionals, representing us at industry events and sharing your experience to help shape tomorrow's talent
• As a part of our vibrant and supportive Future Talent Community, you’ll connect with fellow graduates and apprentices. There will be opportunities to formally network and build your own personal connections
• Your buddy will have walked the same path as you and is there for any support you may need, offering friendly guidance on your day-to-day experience

Your two-year programme will fly by and is just the beginning. Once complete, you'll dive deeper into your chosen field and take the next excited steps in your journey at Ridge.