Cost Engineer

Wood; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 299,962 - 374,953; Full time

Job summary

Wood is seeking a professional with a strong background in cost estimation for mining projects in Saudi Arabia. The role involves preparing detailed cost estimates, monitoring project expenses, and conducting financial analyses to ensure project viability.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, at least 5-10 years of experience in the mining industry, and proficiency in cost management software. Wood provides a collaborative environment with a commitment to sustainability and professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in cost estimation within the mining industry.
• Experience with gold mining projects or similar resource extraction.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for the mining project.
• Monitor project costs to ensure budget alignment.
• Conduct economic evaluations to assess project viability.
• Assist in preparing tender documents and negotiate terms.
• Track actual expenditures against budgets and analyze variances.
• Identify and develop contingency plans for financial risks.

Skills

Cost estimation techniques

Mining operations knowledge

Cost management software proficiency

Financial analysis

Environmental compliance knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Master's degree or advanced certifications

Tools

SAP

Primavera

CostX

Job description

Equal Opportunity Statement

At Wood we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome all talented individuals to consider joining our team. Even if you don't match every statement below but feel you have some of the experience, knowledge, or skills needed for this role, we encourage you to apply.

Educational Background

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mining, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or related field.
• Master's degree or advanced certifications in Mining Engineering, Cost Engineering or Business Administration preferred but not mandatory.

Professional Certifications

• Certified Cost Engineer (CCE) or Certified Cost Professional (CCP) from the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE International).
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification beneficial.
• Certifications in risk management or environmental management advantageous.

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of cost estimation techniques and project budgeting.
• Familiarity with mining operations, processes and equipment.
• Proficiency in cost management software (SAP, Primavera, CostX or equivalent).
• Understanding of financial analysis, economic modeling and feasibility studies.
• Knowledge of environmental and regulatory compliance costs relevant to mining.

Analytical and Soft Skills

• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Strong communication and report‑writing abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Attention to detail and high level of integrity and professionalism.

Years of Experience

Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in cost estimation, control and management within the mining industry. Proven experience with gold mining projects or similar resource extraction projects. Experience with large‑scale capital projects including infrastructure, processing plants and equipment procurement.

Typical Responsibilities

• Cost Estimation and Budget Development – Prepare detailed cost estimates for all phases of the mining project (exploration, development, extraction, processing, and reclamation).
• Capital and Operating Cost Control – Monitor and control project costs related to mining equipment, infrastructure, labor, materials and consumables to ensure alignment with the approved budget.
• Financial Modeling and Feasibility Analysis – Conduct economic evaluations including life‑of‑mine (LOM) cost modeling to assess project viability and support decision‑making.
• Tendering and Contract Management – Assist in preparing tender documents for mining equipment, services, and construction contracts, evaluate bids and negotiate terms to optimize costs.
• Cost Tracking and Variance Analysis – Track actual expenditures against budgets, analyze variances and implement corrective actions to prevent cost overruns.
• Risk and Contingency Management – Identify potential financial risks specific to mining operations (e.g., fluctuating commodity prices, environmental compliance costs) and develop contingency plans.
• Change Order Evaluation – Assess the financial impact of design changes, scope modifications or unforeseen site conditions and process change orders accordingly.
• Reporting and Documentation – Prepare regular financial reports, forecasts and cost status updates for project stakeholders ensuring transparency and accuracy.
• Procurement Support – Support procurement activities by analyzing supplier quotes, negotiating pricing and ensuring cost‑effective purchasing of mining equipment and materials.
• Regulatory and Environmental Cost Compliance – Ensure costs associated with environmental permits, reclamation and regulatory compliance are accurately estimated and monitored.
• Coordination with Multidisciplinary Teams – Work closely with geologists, mining engineers, environmental specialists and project managers to ensure cost data reflects project realities.