Cost Engineer

Role overview

The Cost Engineer will lead estimating, tender pricing, budgeting, cost control, and financial tracking across construction projects from start to finish. The position calls for solid commercial and tendering experience in the construction sector, with a focus on producing reliable forecasts, building competitive bids, and controlling project spend to support strong profitability.

Tendering and estimation

• Examine tender packs, drawings, technical specifications, and contractual terms in detail.
• Build comprehensive cost estimates and pricing proposals for construction works.
• Break down and assess costs for materials, labour, plant/equipment, subcontract packages, and indirect items.
• Collect and compare pricing from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Prepare BOQ pricing schedules and submit complete tender offers.
• Join tender clarification discussions and commercial negotiation sessions.
• Perform market rate checks and cost benchmarking to validate pricing.

Commercial and cost control

• Create project budgets and cost plans.
• Track spending against approved budget limits throughout the project.
• Develop cost reports, forecasts, and cash flow projections.
• Spot budget deviations and suggest corrective measures.
• Assist with variation orders and claim preparation and review.
• Work closely with project teams to support cost-efficient delivery.
• Support contract administration and review commercial risks.

Reporting and analysis

• Prepare regular cost performance updates for management.
• Monitor committed, actual, and forecast costs.
• Assess project profitability and overall financial performance.
• Keep cost records and historical data accurate and up to date.

Qualifications and experience

A bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering is required. The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of experience working as a Cost Engineer in the construction industry, including a minimum of 3 years in Saudi Arabia with a contracting company. Strong hands-on experience in commercial management, tendering, cost estimating, budgeting, and project cost monitoring is essential. Experience on infrastructure, building, or other large-scale construction projects is an advantage.

Technical and professional skills

The role requires a strong understanding of construction methods, BOQ preparation, and contract documentation. Candidates should be comfortable using Microsoft Excel and cost estimation tools, and should have exposure to ERP platforms and project cost management systems. Familiarity with FIDIC contract conditions is preferred. The position also demands strong numerical ability and sound analytical thinking.

Core competencies

• Commercial judgment and business awareness.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet tender deadlines.
• Collaborative mindset with effective stakeholder coordination.