Cost Engineer

Job Purpose

Deliver accurate, timely and insightful cost control across the assigned contract, division or business unit. Provide the Project/Contract Manager/Director and key stakeholders with clear visibility of financial performance through robust budgeting, forecasting, analysis, control measures and reporting.

• Prepare and issue high-quality client cost reports and deliverables, including trend analysis, risk commentary and narrative.
• Attend and contribute to all contract cost meetings, ensuring effective discussion and decision-making.
• Establish baseline budgets and forecasts and monitor performance against these throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support the preparation, verification and submission of cost estimates and variation orders.
• Identify, track and report risks, changes, growth and variations.
• Produce regular cost reports in line with internal and client requirements.
• Work closely with planning to integrate cost and schedule data for earned value analysis.
• Analyse Earned Value, Value of Work Done, progress metrics and other performance indicators.
• Support month-end processes, ensuring accurate cost and WIP accruals.
• Provide clear commentary on variances between actual and forecast margins.
• Prepare timely and accurate invoicing.
• Support internal and external audits to ensure compliance with cost control procedures and templates.
• Maintain cost risk allowances, contingency drawdown and tracking.
• Contribute to risk reviews and mitigation planning.
• Provide early warnings and forward-looking insights to stakeholders.
• Support stage-gate reviews and project assurance activities.

Essential:

• Experience in a similar cost engineering or project controls role.
• Strong working knowledge of project controls principles and practices.
• Proficient in Excel with strong analytical capability.
• Working knowledge of databases and cost management systems.

Desirable:

• Degree qualified in Business, Finance or Cost Engineering.

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Diligent, disciplined and highly organised.
• Strong numeracy and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to provide an overview of the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. The role holder may be required to perform other duties as assigned, which are not listed here but are necessary to meet the business needs of the company.