Assistant Cost Manager
San Francisco (open to relocation or local candidates)
$85,000-$105,000 + Bonus

We are representing a rapidly expanding Cost Consultancy headquartered in New York, with additional offices across the Mid-West and West Coast. The business has undergone significant growth over the last few years and recently entered into a strategic partnership with a leading global consultancy, creating new opportunities for collaboration and international exposure.

The company delivers independent cost and project delivery services to a broad range of Fortune 500 clients, with a strong focus on technology, life sciences, real estate, and mission-critical sectors. They pride themselves on their collaborative, forward-thinking culture, reflecting that of their high-tech and life sciences client base, while providing excellent progression, responsibility, and learning opportunities to their team members.

The Role – Assistant Cost Manager

Based in San Francisco, this is an excellent opportunity for an early-career cost professional to gain hands-on experience on a large pharmaceutical campus project for one of the world's leading life sciences companies. Candidates already based in the Bay Area are welcome to apply, and relocation support may be available for strong candidates coming from elsewhere. Working alongside senior cost managers, you'll gain exposure to a high-profile, mission-critical development encompassing lab, R&D, manufacturing, and office/amenity space, as well as the firm's broader portfolio spanning tech campuses, retail, hotels, hospitality, and creative studio facilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the delivery of cost management services on a large-scale pharmaceutical campus project, including lab, R&D, and GMP manufacturing space.
• Assist in preparing cost estimates, budgets, and cost plans under the guidance of senior team members.
• Support tender processes, including documentation preparation and take-offs.
• Assist with post-contract services, including valuations, change tracking, and final account preparation.
• Help compile financial reports and cost data for client presentations.
• Contribute to benchmarking, value engineering, and risk analysis exercises.
• Build strong working relationships with project stakeholders while developing client-facing skills.
• Take on increasing responsibility as experience and confidence grow.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction, or a related discipline.
• 1–3 years of experience in cost management or a related field (graduates with relevant internship experience will also be considered).
• Exposure to life sciences, pharmaceutical, lab/R&D, or commercial construction projects is a plus but not essential.
• Basic understanding of pre- and post-contract processes.
• Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn.
• U.S. citizenship, existing right to work in the U.S., or eligibility for an E2/E3 visa.

Why Join?

• Be part of a consultancy with a start-up mentality, backed by the platform and resources of a global partner.
• Work on a high-profile pharmaceutical campus project, plus exposure to the firm's broader portfolio across tech offices, retail, hotels, hospitality, and creative studios.
• Relocation support may be available for candidates outside the Bay Area.
• Structured mentorship and career progression, with a clear pathway toward Cost Manager.
• A collaborative, modern working culture designed to support professional growth.