Cost Engineer

75268
  • Market related
  • UK
  • Permanent

Job Title: Cost Engineer
Location: Scotland
Employment Type: Permanent
Visa Status: Candidates must have the right to work in the UK. No visa sponsorship is available for this position.

We're working with a leading international organisation in the energy and industrial projects sector, currently looking for an experienced Cost Engineer to join their team based in Scotland. If you enjoy bringing structure to complexity, translating technical details into real-world cost impacts, and supporting high-value global projects—this role will suit you down to the ground.

You’ll play a pivotal role in providing accurate and insightful cost estimates throughout the full lifecycle of large and small projects—ranging from early concepts to full execution. Your estimates will shape strategies, influence timelines, and ultimately steer investment decisions.

What You'll Be Doing:

Cost Estimation

  • Develop detailed estimates during all project phases: conceptual, preliminary, and definitive.

  • Analyse technical documentation to determine cost-effective solutions.

  • Identify and recommend optimisations in cost and execution strategy.

Cost Reporting

  • Produce cost reports, budgets, and forecasts for internal stakeholders.

  • Monitor project spend and flag any variances against budget.

Risk & Schedule Input

  • Conduct risk assessments and build contingency into cost plans.

  • Work closely with planners to align cost forecasts with schedules and milestones.

Procurement & Vendor Support

  • Support procurement through cost evaluations and bid comparisons.

  • Review vendor proposals and contracts for cost-effectiveness.

Data & Benchmarking

  • Assist with maintaining and improving cost estimation tools and databases.

  • Conduct benchmarking studies against industry norms and project history.

  • Analyse data trends to refine cost models and forecast accuracy.

Stakeholder Engagement

  • Communicate clearly and confidently with internal teams and project stakeholders.

  • Present updates and guide decisions based on solid cost data.

What We're Looking For:

  • 3 to 15 years’ experience in cost engineering or estimating.

  • Background in energy, manufacturing, chemicals, petrochemicals, or power projects.

  • Experience across the full project lifecycle is highly desirable.

  • Knowledge of industry cost estimation tools (e.g., ACCE or similar internal systems).

  • Strong analytical skills, with experience in data-driven decision making.

  • Familiarity with risk management techniques and performance reporting.

  • A proactive approach to continuous improvement and cost optimisation.

Additional Info:

  • This role is based in Scotland, with some flexibility depending on project needs.

  • Applicants must already hold the legal right to work in the UK.

If you’re a driven Cost Engineer looking for a new challenge on impactful global projects—get in touch to find out more or apply now.

Apply for this role