
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Cost Lead – Project Controls
Contract | £600/day (Inside IR35) | Reading (Hybrid – 1-2 days on site)
Our client, a major player in the UK infrastructure sector, is seeking an experienced Cost Lead to join their Project Controls function on a contract basis. This is a key role supporting the delivery of a large-scale infrastructure programme, with responsibility for cost management, reporting, and forecasting across the project lifecycle.
The Role
Working within an established Project Controls team, you'll take the lead on cost control activities, ensuring accurate reporting and providing the insight needed to keep delivery on budget. Responsibilities include:
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.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
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.
- Leading cost management across the programme, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
- Producing clear, accurate cost reports and dashboards for senior stakeholders
- Monitoring commitments, actuals, and accruals, and maintaining cost baselines
- Supporting change control, risk, and value management processes
- Working closely with planning, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure alignment of cost and schedule
- Driving continuous improvement in cost control processes and reporting standards
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience as a Cost Lead / Cost Manager within a Project Controls environment
- A track record of delivering on major infrastructure projects (essential)
- Water sector experience is highly desirable, though not a requirement
- Strong cost forecasting, reporting, and analytical skills
- Confident engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels
- Relevant systems experience (e.g. cost management / ERP tools) and advanced Excel


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Contract Details
- Rate: £600 per day (Inside IR35)
- Location: Reading – hybrid working, 1-2 days per week on site, remainder remote
- Type: Contract
How to Apply
To apply or find out more, please submit your CV via this advert or contact Martin Stanley at Pace Global for a confidential discussion.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location