Assistant Cost Manager

Role Overview

Assistant Cost Manager at Turner & Townsend, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This role supports the delivery of comprehensive pre-contract cost management services across diverse construction projects from inception through design completion.

Company Overview

Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 22,000 people in more than 60 countries. Working with clients across real estate, infrastructure, energy and natural resources, the company transforms together delivering outcomes that improve people's lives. Capabilities include programme, project, cost, asset and commercial management, controls and performance, procurement and supply chain, net zero and digital solutions. The company is majority-owned by CBRE Group, Inc., the world's largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with partners holding a significant minority interest.

Role Purpose

Support the delivery of cost management services on construction projects while developing technical, commercial, and client management expertise. Work closely with senior team members and project stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to project success.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Planning & Estimating

• Prepare feasibility estimates, cost plans, budgets, and benchmarking exercises with precision and attention to detail
• Develop and maintain project cost plans throughout various design stages, from concept through detailed design
• Review design information and identify potential cost implications; support value engineering and cost optimization initiatives
• Prepare cost reports and financial summaries that inform project viability and investment decisions

Procurement & Tender Management

• Prepare tender documentation, bills of quantities, and procurement packages in compliance with project requirements and industry standards
• Assist with tender strategy development and commercial assessments; review contractor and supplier quotations for completeness and value alignment
• Support procurement activities and provide recommendations for contract awards based on commercial analysis

Client & Stakeholder Support

• Participate in client meetings, project workshops, and cost review sessions to maintain strong relationships and gather requirements
• Support the preparation of presentations, reports, and commercial recommendations for client approval
• Liaise with clients, consultants, and project stakeholders under senior guidance to ensure alignment on cost objectives

Project Administration & Reporting

• Maintain accurate project cost records, procurement documentation, and cost management reports
• Support cost management systems, reporting processes, and project governance requirements
• Assist in developing cost databases and benchmarking information for organizational learning and future project reference

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Construction Management, Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related discipline
• 1–5 years of professional experience in Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, or Construction Consultancy
• Demonstrated experience supporting both pre-contract and post-contract cost management services

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of quantity surveying and construction cost management principles
• Proficiency in cost planning, budgeting, cost control, and procurement processes
• Excellent numerical and analytical abilities with strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to analyze complex cost data and present findings clearly
• Effective time management, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Collaborative mindset with strong problem-solving capability
• Experience with cost management software and project management tools (preferred)
• Professional certification or membership in relevant quantity surveying or cost management bodies (preferred)
• Knowledge of UAE construction industry practices and regulations (preferred)