First Recruitment Group
Cost Engineer

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Cost Engineer
Location
Reading
Contract Duration
6 month contract
Job Description
Cost Engineering opportunity supporting a major UK infrastructure programme.
Our Client has a requirement for a Cost Engineer, who will be required to work on a contract basis in Reading.
Role Purpose
Maintain and deliver timely and accurate cost data and reports at programme and project level. Support project delivery through performance analysis, earned value management and cost forecasting. Provide meaningful cost intelligence and recommendations to support project execution. Ensure accurate reporting against project governance requirements and reporting cycles.
Job Role Responsibilities
- Liaise with key stakeholders to deliver accurate cost reports, performance analysis and variance reporting.
- Review and interpret cost impacts arising from performance issues, inflation, trends, foreign exchange and formal changes.
- Produce and maintain Estimate at Completion (EAC) data and associated cost reports.
- Review, accept and integrate supplier cost performance data.
- Support change management processes and assess impacts on cost performance.
- Apply cost data to risk and opportunity management activities.
- Ensure compliance with project governance, cost standards and procedures.
- Assist with developing project codes of accounts and related cost control activities.
- Support estimating and cost control requirements across project disciplines.
- Assist in the preparation and issue of monthly project control reports.
- Maintain a strong understanding of the relationship between cost and schedule performance.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and project reviews.
- Provide support to Project Controls leadership and wider project teams as required.
- Manage monthly payment applications and invoicing activities.
- Prepare and present cost and performance reports to senior management.
- Support a range of estimating activities when required.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Experience / Skills / Knowledge / Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
- Current SC Clearance is required.
- Must be eligible to work in the UK and satisfy security screening requirements.
- Experience in project controls, cost engineering or cost management environments.
- Experience of forecasting, statistical analysis, quantity take-offs and financial reporting.
- Knowledge of project financial reporting systems and control account structures.
- Experience of earned value management, progress measurement, forecasting and performance reporting.
- Strong analytical, written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
- Knowledge of AACE estimating classifications is desirable.
- Understanding of engineering and construction project delivery environments.
- Knowledge of NEC3/NEC4 contract administration.
- Awareness of current industry developments and best practice.
- Previous experience within highly regulated sectors is advantageous.


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Company Information
At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates. We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for Cost Engineers looking for new employment.
As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included.
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