About this role
Title: Assistant Cost Manager (Graduate) Discipline: Cost Management Location: Birmingham (With Hybrid Working) Why RLB? At RLB, we live by four simple ideas: Truth, Trust, Together, Tomorrow. Four values that live at the heart of RLB. A place where People Make Progress. RLB is a great place to start your career in the built environment. We’re proud of how we guide, mentor and support people from the earliest stages of their careers, laying the foundations for their future success. RLB’s Future Professionals programme, our development scheme for graduates, is designed to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. This comprehensive scheme spans two years for graduates, providing structured training support every step of the way, and the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects. Participants receive mentoring from chartered professionals and additional training focused on both soft and technical skills, ensuring they are well-equipped to achieve their career and chartership goals. What makes RLB unique is our inclusive culture. As an independent, employee-owned business, teamwork and collaboration lies at the heart of everything we do. Hybrid and flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies are just some of the ways we invest in employee wellbeing. Join us and you will thrive personally as well as professionally. As a Graduate Cost Manager, you will join our structured Graduate Development Programme, designed to support your journey towards achieving chartership with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Our programme combines hands-on project experience, technical training, and mentorship from experienced professionals to help you build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to progress in your career. You will gain exposure to all aspects of cost management within a consultancy environment, working across a variety of projects and sectors. Role Responsibilities Preparing cost estimates, budgets, and cost plans. Assisting with feasibility studies and benchmarking. Supporting the preparation of tender and contract documents. Conducting cost analysis and value engineering exercises. Monitoring and reporting on project costs throughout the project lifecycle. Supporting the assessment and valuation of variations and change control. Assisting with the preparation of final accounts. Engaging with clients, contractors, and design teams under the guidance of senior colleagues. Maintaining accurate project records and data. Participating in internal and external project meetings. Supporting the team with research, reporting, and best practice development. Qualifications A RICS-accredited degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or a related discipline (essential) Behaviours Strong numerical and analytical skills. Ability to manage workload, priorities, and deadlines effectively. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Eagerness to learn and develop within a consultancy environment. Proactive approach to problem-solving. Team player with the confidence to contribute ideas. No prior technical experience required – full training and support provided.