Cost Engineer
Position Title: Construction Cost Engineer
Location: Glen Rock, NJ (Hybrid)
Compensation: This position offers a salary range of $100,000–$150,000 , based on experience and qualifications.
Benefits: Includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and eligibility for an annual performance bonus of 10%.
Applegreen Electric is a rapidly growing subsidiary of the Applegreen Group, focused on deploying ultra-fast EV charging infrastructure along major highway corridors. We support over 1 million charging sessions each year and operate a large and expanding network across the U.S., U.K., and Ireland. As part of one of the largest travel plaza operators with 630+ sites and 15,000 employees globally, Applegreen Electric designs, develops, operates, and maintains its own charging stations, supported by strong partnerships with leading DC fast-charging suppliers. Headquarters in New Jersey, we continue expanding nationwide to drive accessible, sustainable transportation.
Join us to drive innovation and help power the future of EV infrastructure.
www.applegreenelectric.com
Position Introduction
We are seeking an organized and proactive Cost Engineer to manage and oversee cost control activities across multiple construction projects. The successful candidate will be responsible for tracking budgets, forecasting costs, analyzing variances, and ensuring financial accountability throughout the project lifecycle. Additional responsibilities include procurement management (issuing RFPs, bid leveling, descoping bidders, negotiating contract terms) and change order management. This role is critical to maintaining project profitability, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and supporting strategic decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Project Cost Management
Develop, maintain, and monitor detailed project budgets and cost reports
Track actuals vs. budget and forecast future expenditures
Identify and analyze cost variances; recommend corrective actions
Change Order & Risk Analysis
Evaluate and validate change orders for cost impact and entitlement
Collaborate with construction managers to assess scope changes
Support risk assessments and contingency planning
Reporting & Communication
Prepare weekly and monthly cost performance reports for internal and external stakeholders
Present cost trends, forecasts, and project financial health to senior leadership
Maintain clear documentation of cost-related decisions and assumptions
Procurement & Vendor Coordination
Partner with procurement to ensure cost-effective sourcing
Manage the RFP and award process (issue RFPs, level/compare bids, descope, negotiate terms)
Review vendor invoices and contracts for accuracy and budget compliance
Systems & Tools
Use cost management software and tools (e.g., Procore, Excel) to maintain accurate records
Support integration of cost data with scheduling and project controls systems
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or related field
3+ years of experience in cost engineering and/or project estimating within construction
Highly organized; able to manage trackers and standardized processes
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
Proficiency with cost control software and Excel-based financial modeling
Excellent communication and collaboration skills; able to advocate for the company's interests
Ability to visit construction sites ~once per month to deepen field understanding
Solid understanding of construction contracts and change order processes
Preferred
Experience with utility-scale infrastructure or energy projects.
Other Requirements
Valid driver's license.
Willingness to travel to project sites 1-2 times per month.
We Offer
An opportunity to be part of the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) sector
Professional development and opportunities for career advancement
A collaborative and supportive team culture
Hybrid work schedule, with 3 days per week in the office
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a Company match of up to 4%
Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
Health Savings Account option
Company-paid Life Insurance
Paid Time Off
Company cell phone
Employee Assistance Program
Earned Wage Access – Pay on Demand
Education Assistance
Company events, lunches, and outings
Other Voluntary Benefits
And an AMAZING team of people to work with!
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