Senior Cost Controller 1

Position

We are seeking an Assistant Cost Controller or recent Finance or Accounting graduate to support the Senior Cost Controller within VSL UK's Finance team.

Based in Waterloo, the role will provide hands-on experience across procurement, subcontractor administration, client billing, project cost control, project finance, and general project administration. The successful candidate will work closely with Quantity Surveyors, Contract Managers, Project Managers, Procurement, and Finance teams throughout the project lifecycle.

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry-level candidate to develop practical experience in project finance and cost control while supporting major infrastructure, industrial, and energy projects across the UK.

Main Responsibilities

Procurement & Supplier Payments

• Support the creation and management of purchase orders in SAP.
• Assist with goods receipting and supplier payment processes.
• Help investigate and resolve supplier payment discrepancies.
• Support urgent payment requests and liaise with Procurement and Finance teams.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and project commitments.
• Assist with monitoring project expenditure and identifying potential issues.

Subcontractor Administration

• Support the administration of subcontractor contracts and purchase agreements.
• Assist with the monthly subcontractor payment process.
• Review and help validate subcontractor payment applications.
• Maintain accurate subcontractor cost records and supporting documentation.
• Support the approval and processing of subcontractor payments

Client Contracts & Billing

• Assist with setting up client contract information and project data in SAP.
• Support the preparation and issue of client invoices.
• Assist with updating contract values, variations, and amendments.
• Monitor invoicing status and support the resolution of billing queries.
• Maintain accurate contractual and financial records.

Monthly Cost Control & Reporting

• Assist with monthly project cost-control activities.
• Support the preparation of project-control reports for production and management meetings.
• Assist Quantity Surveyors and Contract Managers with monthly Applications for Payment.
• Support the preparation and monitoring of project forecasts and cost reports.
• Assist with accruals, cost allocations, and financial adjustments.
• Help maintain accurate project financial records within SAP.
• Support the preparation of financial and contractual documentation for NEC contracts.
• Assist with internal and client audits.
• Identify opportunities to improve cost-control and administrative processes.

Candidate Profile

Education & Experience

• Degree in Finance, Accounting, Audit, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Entry-level candidates and recent graduates are welcome to apply.
• Previous experience in finance, cost control, construction, engineering, or project administration is advantageous.
• Experience working in a project-based or construction environment is desirable.

Technical Skills

• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Experience with SAP or another ERP system is advantageous.
• An understanding of project costs, procurement, invoicing, or subcontractor payments is beneficial.
• Good analytical and numerical skills.
• Ability to interpret and maintain accurate financial and contractual records.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, proactive, and accountable.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Professional, organised, and willing to learn.
• Able to manage priorities and meet deadlines.
• Clear communication and good interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrates initiative and a strong sense of ownership.
• Able to work collaboratively with Finance, Procurement, Quantity Surveying, Contract Management, and project teams.
• Flexible and willing to travel to project sites nationwide when required.

VSL/Bouygues Construction is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Equal Opportunities Policy is available upon request.

Interested? Apply now and let's build the great structures of tomorrow together!