Cost Engineer

About the Job:

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Cost Engineer with a strong background in Power and Substation projects to join our dynamic engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for managing, analyzing, and controlling project costs throughout all phases of engineering and construction. You will work closely with engineering, procurement, contracts, planning, and finance teams to ensure accurate cost forecasting, efficient budget control, and alignment with project objectives.
This position requires excellent analytical skills, deep knowledge of T&D (Transmission & Distribution) project cost structures, and the ability to support strategic decision-making for large-scale infrastructure projects.

Key Responsibilities/Deliverables:

• Develop, review, and maintain project cost estimates for LV/MV/HV/EHV substation and power infrastructure projects during concept, design, and execution stages.
• Prepare detailed BOQs (Bills of Quantities), cost breakdown structures (CBS), and cost reports based on engineering design documents, drawings, and specifications.
• Conduct cost analysis, forecasting, trending, and variance reporting to ensure projects remain within approved budgets.
• Coordinate with engineering teams to evaluate design changes, assess cost impacts, and maintain up-to-date cost models.
• Support tender preparation, including bid evaluation, contractor price analysis, and market benchmarking for materials, equipment, and construction services.
• Review and validate vendor quotations, subcontractor proposals, and procurement pricing to ensure alignment with project cost targets.
• Collaborate with planning teams to integrate cost data with project schedules and ensure accurate cash flow projections.
• Implement and maintain effective cost control procedures, including change management, claims assessment, and financial risk analysis.
• Ensure compliance with international standards such as AACE, ASTM, IEC, and relevant regional cost control guidelines.
• Prepare and present regular cost status reports, dashboards, and executive summaries to project leadership and stakeholders.
• Support audits, financial reviews, and internal governance processes.
• Stay updated with market trends, escalation rates, and new technologies affecting project cost performance.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related technical field.
• Minimum 8+ years of progressive experience in cost estimation and control for power, utilities, and substation projects.
• Proven experience working on T&D infrastructure, EPC projects, or consultancy environments.
• Strong understanding of engineering design documents, construction processes, and material specifications for substation and power systems.
• Solid knowledge of cost breakdown structures, pricing methodologies, and market rates for equipment, materials, and manpower in the power sector.
• Familiarity with international cost standards such as AACE, PMI standards, and region-specific cost guidelines.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with the ability to manage complex data and provide sound recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills with experience in coordinating with engineering teams, contractors, vendors, and project managers.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.

Knowledge and Functional Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of cost estimation and control tools such as CostX, Candy, SAP, Oracle, Primavera, MS Excel, or similar platforms.
• Familiarity with international cost control standards, benchmarking methodologies, and cost risk analysis.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to work under pressure, handle multiple projects, and achieve deadlines.
• Team player with excellent collaboration skills for working across engineering, contracting, and finance teams.

What We Offer:

• We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as opportunities for professional development, continuous learning and growth, and career advancement.
• Work with diverse and talented professionals from various backgrounds and colleagues, all guided by our Leadership Model.
• Work in a friendly environment, where everyone shares positive vibes and is excited about our future.

Company Description:

DAR Engineering is a leading multidisciplinary consultancy firm providing design, architecture, engineering, project management, construction management and planning services across a broad range of sectors. We assist national governments, international organizations, and private sector companies by delivering comprehensive solutions with global expertise.

For more information about DAR, please visit https://www.dar-engineering.com