Job Title: Project Cost Engineer
About Us:
Company Culture and Growth Strategy at SME Industries
At SME Industries, we believe that our people are the backbone of our success in the steel fabrication and erection industry. Our company culture is built on a foundation of collaboration, safety, and innovation. We foster an environment where every team member is encouraged to bring new ideas to the table, challenge the status quo, and take ownership of their work. We emphasize a strong sense of teamwork, providing opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a supportive and inclusive environment.
As a leading contractor in our industry, our growth strategy is focused on expanding our market presence through continuous innovation, investment in cutting-edge technologies, and strategic partnerships. We are committed to delivering high-quality results for our clients while maintaining sustainable practices and upholding the highest standards of safety and quality in everything we do.
At SME Industries, we don’t just build structures; we build careers. We are looking for talented, driven individuals to join our team and help us continue to shape the future of the steel industry.
Position Overview
The Project Cost Engineer will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of project cost control, from initial estimation through completion. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of the contract, scope of work, budgets, and potential cost impacts. The Project Cost Engineer will work closely with internal departments, subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors to ensure that costs are captured accurately and any changes or variations are properly evaluated and documented.
We are seeking a candidate with strong analytical abilities, a firm grasp of cost engineering principles, and specific experience in the structural steel industry. This role is critical to the financial success and smooth execution of our projects, requiring proactive communication, attention to detail, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
Key Responsibilities
1. Cost Estimation:
- Prepare, review, and validate detailed cost estimates for all aspects of projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and other expenses.
- Assess and analyze estimates from subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers, ensuring alignment with project scope and budget.
- Support bidding and tender processes by providing accurate cost breakdowns and estimations.
2. Change Order Management:
- Evaluate project changes, such as variations in scope or unforeseen conditions, and assess their cost impact.
- Coordinate with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors to gather data and input for change order submissions.
- Prepare and submit comprehensive cost estimates and documentation for all change orders and claims.
- Ensure all change orders are documented and approved by clients and internal stakeholders before implementation.
3. Contract Change Management:
- Review subcontractor and supplier contracts to ensure accurate scope pricing and cost control.
- Track any contractual changes, ensuring compliance and cost efficiency.
- Monitor supplier and subcontractor adherence to contract terms, flagging any potential cost deviations.
Duties
1. Project Monitoring & Control:
- Track project costs continuously, comparing actuals to the original budget and making adjustments where necessary.
- Generate cost reports for internal and client-facing purposes, outlining variances and financial risks.
- Implement cost-saving strategies where applicable, working to maintain project profitability without sacrificing quality or safety.
2. Cost Tracking Systems:
- Utilize project management and financial software to track and document all project-related costs.
- Maintain comprehensive cost databases for material, labor, and subcontractor pricing.
- Work with the finance department to reconcile project costs and prepare for audits as needed.
3. Risk Management:
- Identify potential cost risks early in the project lifecycle, and work with the project team to develop mitigation strategies.
- Provide guidance on budget reallocations, reforecasting, and corrective actions if cost overruns are anticipated.
Collaboration & Communication
- Partner with project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and other departments to ensure that cost estimates and change orders are aligned with project objectives.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for cost-related queries from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors.
- Communicate cost-related updates to stakeholders, providing clear, actionable insights and recommendations to manage budget impact.
- Ensure effective collaboration between the cost engineering function and the construction management teams to align cost controls with overall project timelines and deliverables.
Must-Have Skills & Qualifications:
- Strong understanding and experience in cost engineering, particularly within the structural steel industry.
- Familiarity with Architectural and Structural Steel drawings and RFIs (Request for Information).
- Experience working with subcontractors and suppliers, managing contracts, and ensuring compliance with scope and pricing.
- Proficiency with cost management software and project management tools.
- Strong analytical and financial skills with the ability to foresee cost-related risks.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact with various stakeholders.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
- SME Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and accessible workplace where all employees feel valued and respected, regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We ensure non-discriminatory treatment throughout the hiring process and employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, and termination.
- Reasonable accommodation may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities or for religious practices as required by law.
