Senior Cost Controller

Job Description Cost Controller / Senior Cost ControllerDefence Sector Project ControlsThe OpportunityAn opportunity exists for a Cost Controller or Senior Cost Controller to support major programmes within the defence sector. These programmes involve complex infrastructure and engineering environments where robust project controls and clear cost visibility are essential to successful delivery.Working as part of an integrated Project Controls and performance team, you will support the development and implementation of cost control processes across large, multi-disciplinary projects and programmes. Depending on experience, you will either contribute to cost management activities under the guidance of senior professionals or lead cost control functions and provide direction to project teams.This role offers exposure to high-profile programmes and the opportunity to work alongside experienced project controls specialists across cost, planning, risk and performance management.Key ResponsibilitiesCost Control and Performance ManagementSupport or lead the development and implementation of project cost control processes, systems and reporting structures.Establish and maintain cost baselines, monitoring project expenditure against approved budgets.Track and analyse cost performance, including cost of work performed, forecasts and variances.Assist in developing Cost Breakdown Structures (CBS) and align them with project Work Breakdown Structures (WBS).Maintain accurate forecasting models, including Estimate to Complete (ETC) and Estimate at Completion (EAC).Reporting and AnalysisProduce and maintain cost reports, dashboards and performance analysis to support project leadership and governance.Provide commentary and insight on cost variances and performance trends.Apply Earned Value Management (EVM) techniques, including metrics such as Cost Variance (CV) and Cost Performance Index (CPI).Provide cost insights to support informed decision-making by programme leadership.Integration Across Project ControlsWork closely with planning, commercial, finance, risk and project management teams to ensure consistency of project data.Support integrated baseline reviews and assurance processes.Contribute to change control processes, including trend analysis and baseline updates.Review supplier cost submissions and payment applications, ensuring accurate integration into project cost data.Stakeholder EngagementPromote the value and application of effective cost control practices across project teams.Provide guidance and insight to project stakeholders on cost performance and forecasting.At senior level, support the coaching and development of junior team members and client stakeholders in cost control processes.Experience and SkillsEssentialExperience working within project controls or cost control in a project environment.Demonstrable experience delivering cost reporting, forecasting and analysis on complex projects or programmes.Understanding of Earned Value Management principles and cost performance analysis.Experience using Excel and other analytical tools to manage and report project data.Ability to interpret cost information and provide clear analysis and challenge where required.Understanding of how cost control integrates with planning, risk, reporting and change management within a project controls environment.DesirableExperience using cost management or project controls software tools.Familiarity with NEC contracts or other collaborative contract forms.Professional development or qualifications related to Project Controls, Cost Management or Project Management (e.g. APM, ECITB or similar).Security RequirementsDue to the sensitive nature of defence programmes, applicants must be sole UK nationals and eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC).

Created: 2026-03-20