Cost and Commercial Engineer

Dar Al Riyadh Consultants; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy firm in the Riyadh Region seeks an experienced cost manager to oversee project cost plans and budgets, focusing on housing projects. The ideal candidate will have over 12 years of experience in cost management, particularly in a Project Management Consultancy environment, and a strong grasp of contract negotiation. Proficiency in cost management software is required. This role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12+ years of experience in cost management and commercial engineering.
• Strong background in Project Management Consultancy (PMC) environment.
• Membership of a professional body preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, monitor, and update project cost plans and budgets.
• Prepare cash flow projections and ensure alignment with project schedules.
• Evaluate and administer contracts and manage claims.

Skills

Cost management

Contract negotiation

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Quantity Surveying or Civil/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Primavera

CostX

Candy

Excel

Job description

Responsibilities

• Develop, monitor, and update project cost plans, budgets, and forecasts.
• Prepare cash flow projections and ensure alignment with project schedules.
• Evaluate, negotiate, and administer contracts and variations in compliance with project requirements.
• Monitor contractor performance and manage claims, change orders, and dispute resolution.
• Review and validate contractors’ interim payment applications, invoices, and final accounts.
• Conduct cost risk assessments and advise on cost optimization strategies.
• Support tendering and procurement processes including bid analysis and recommendations.
• Coordinate with project managers, design consultants, and contractors to ensure commercial objectives are achieved.
• Ensure compliance with PMC procedures, contract terms, and industry standards.
• Prepare regular cost and commercial reports for client review and decision-making.
• Prepare detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ), cost estimates, and feasibility studies for housing projects.
• Lead the cost benchmarking process to ensure competitiveness and efficiency.
• Provide value engineering input during design development to optimize cost without compromising quality.
• Ensure proper change management procedures are followed and maintain a change log for variations.
• Monitor project expenditures against budgets and highlight potential overruns in advance.
• Support preparation and evaluation of tender documents, RFPs, and RFQs.
• Assist in developing and implementing commercial strategies to achieve project financial targets.
• Ensure compliance with local authority regulations, contractual requirements, and client policies.
• Manage and mentor junior cost engineers and quantity surveyors within the PMC team.
• Liaise with finance and procurement teams to ensure accurate and timely project accounting.
• Maintain an auditable trail of all commercial correspondence, approvals, and cost-related documentation.
• Provide support in final account settlement and project close-out process.
• Contribute to preparation of monthly progress, cost, and commercial reports for client and senior management.

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil/Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 12+ years of relevant experience in cost management and commercial engineering, preferably within large-scale housing or residential projects.
• Strong background in Project Management Consultancy (PMC) environment.
• Excellent knowledge of contract forms (FIDIC or equivalent) and claims management.
• Proficiency in cost management software (e.g., Primavera, CostX, Candy, Excel).
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Membership of a professional body (e.g., RICS, AACE, or equivalent) preferred.