Ridge and Partners LLP
Graduate MEP Cost Manager - Evolve

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Are you aspiring to start your career in the built environment industry?
We have an exciting opportunity for a Graduate Cost Manager (2025/2026 Graduate) to join our experienced and talented MEP Cost Management team in Oxford (Woodstock office).
At Ridge our people are the foundation of our success, and our greatest asset. Our people are what separate us, they drive our vision and embody our values. We offer not just a job, but a journey. We believe in commitment, and the value of a stable, flexible, long-term career path. We challenge our people to be the best they can be and help them grow with the right development.
Our graduate roles are real, genuine roles in our teams - you will play an important part in providing exceptional service to our clients and be exposed to a lot more client activity than you may be at the bigger consultancies. We want you to take pride in your work and feel valued for your contribution, so you can expect to be getting involved as soon as you are ready to do so.
Our projects include large residential, industrial, and commercial schemes with contract values over £30 million to smaller schemes and working for interesting clients including motor manufacturers, Schools/Universities, healthcare providers, contractors, developers etc.
As a Graduate MEP Cost Manager, your role will focus on support for building services engineering projects, as follows:
- Mechanical - Help calculate costs for HVAC systems, ductwork, and mechanical plant installations. Review mechanical drawings, perform quantity take-offs for items like pipework and ventilation ductwork, and assist in preparing tender documents.
- Electrical - Support the pricing of systems such as lighting, power distribution, fire alarms, and data cabling. Interpret electrical schematics, measure cable runs and containment, and request quotes from suppliers.
- Plumbing - Assist with the costing of water supply, drainage, and sanitaryware. Interpret plumbing layouts, calculate pipe lengths, fixture quantities, and gather pricing from plumbing merchants.
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.
What do I need to succeed?
Our People Are At The Heart Of Everything We Do. You’ll Play An Integral Part In Our Team, Helping Drive Our Vision, Living Our Values And Embracing Our Culture. So, If Your Answer Is Yes To All The Following Statements, We’d Love To Hear From You
- I have a 2:1 BSc in Quantity Surveying obtained in 2025 or 2026
- I am available to start work full-time from October/November 2026
- I have a permanent Right to Work in the UK and do not need visa sponsorship.
- I am curious and eager to learn
- I am passionate about the Built Environment — don’t take this one lightly! We love what we do and the Built Environment plays a vital role in the future of communities and society. It’s important we all share that passion so we can build legacies that last.
How will my career be supported?
Your Development Is Our Priority, So You Can Count On Having The Right Tools, Plenty Of Experience And The Professional Support You Need To Succeed. Here’s What You Can Expect In Your First Two Years


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Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Professional support
- If you want to take your existing degree on to a Master’s, we can fund that
- If you already hold an accredited degree for our industry, we have established guidance and a large network of internal ‘chartership champions’ who will support you to gain your professional chartership
Technical learning
- We have a full timetable of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, such as webinars, short courses and masterclasses, to enhance your skills in focused areas
- You’ll be allocated an experienced and knowledgeable mentor to be your trusted advisor throughout your programme
Personal Skills
- A tailored development plan will clearly map out opportunities for growth such as strengthening your soft skills and leadership
- You’ll become a STEM ambassador, inspiring future generations of Built Environment professionals, representing us at industry events and sharing your experience to help shape tomorrow's talent
- As a part of our vibrant and supportive Future Talent Community, you’ll connect with fellow graduates and apprentices. There will be opportunities to formally network and build your own personal connections
- Your buddy will have walked the same path as you and is there for any support you may need, offering friendly guidance on your day-to-day experience
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