Major Projects PMO Senior Cost Controller

Closing Date

2026-01-12

Job Title: Senior Cost Controller

Location: Falmer, Hybrid

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: 37 hours

Salary: salary to be discussed at screening stage

Are you ready to take ownership of cost control for some of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the region?

About the role

Our Major Projects team is at the forefront of delivering critical programmes that shape the future of our business and communities. As a Senior Cost Controller, you’ll play a key role in ensuring robust cost management throughout the project lifecycle. From accurate forecasting and detailed analysis to managing change and collaborating with external partners, this is your opportunity to make a real impact on projects that matter.

What you will be responsible for:

• Manage and control project budgets, commitments, actual costs, and forecasts aligned to the Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS).
• Deliver accurate forecasting for in-month, in-year, and overall project Estimate at Completion (EAC).
• Prepare and manage accruals to reflect Value of Work Done (VOWD) and Actual Cost Work Performed (ACWP).
• Produce monthly cost reports, including performance analysis, variances, trends, and contingency drawdown.
• Manage cost performance through Earned Value Management (EVM) and Cost Performance Index (CPI).
• Collaborate with external partners to integrate cost forecasts and review contractor cost reports.

Additional Requirements

• Expert user of cost management software such as Prism, Hexagon EcoSys, and advanced Excel skills.
• Familiarity with NEC contracts and key clauses.

What you’ll bring to the role:

Essential

• Extensive experience in cost management within large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced project environment.

Desirable

• Degree in Civil Engineering, Finance, or Quantity Surveying.
• Professional certifications such as AACE, AMP, or AcostE.

Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.

You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation

At Southern Water, we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact and think you can bring value to our team, we’d love to hear from you—even if you don’t tick every box. Your unique skills and experiences could be exactly what we need.

If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself)

Our Commitment to Diversity

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

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