Job Description
About the role
This is a high-impact leadership role at the heart of Sydney Airport’s development portfolio.
As our Cost Planning Manager, you’ll be the subject matter expert and assurance lead for cost planning across all early-stage project activities — from initial concept through to detailed planning.
You’ll shape the way we estimate, benchmark, and validate costs, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and strategic alignment across our capital works.
Reporting to the Cost & Commercial Lead, you’ll work closely with internal and external stakeholders to uphold governance standards, guide project teams, and drive continuous improvement in cost planning practices.
This is a rare opportunity to influence major infrastructure projects from the ground up, in a role that blends technical expertise with strategic oversight.
In this role, you will have the prospect to
- Lead cost planning assurance across early project stages, including formal review and endorsement of cost estimates before key investment decisions.
- Own and enforce the corporate Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS) and portfolio benchmarking library.
- Guide and support Project Managers and consultant Quantity Surveyors to ensure consistent application of standards.
- Lead cost assurance reviews and provide clear recommendations to senior leadership.
- Collaborate with Finance, sponsors, and external advisors to align cost plans with governance and benchmarks.
- Drive continuous improvement by integrating lessons learned and delivery actuals into estimating processes.
About you
You’re a credible and confident cost planning professional with a sharp eye for detail and a strategic mindset.
You thrive in complex environments and know how to influence, challenge, and guide stakeholders toward better outcomes.
- Degree-qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
- 10+ years’ experience in cost planning or quantity surveying, ideally in infrastructure or airport environments.
- Proven track record in cost assurance, benchmarking, and governance across early project phases.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
- Deep expertise in CBS structures, construction rates, and cost compliance frameworks.
- Experience leading consultant teams and driving consistency across large-scale projects.
What we offer
To find out more about the amazing work environment here at SYD, be sure to check out the section of Sydney Airport’s website, where you can also see more about our flexible culture and work practices, alongside our other, or take a look at our.
Make it Amazing
SYD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all suitably qualified applicants to apply, including First Nations Australians, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.
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Required Skill Profession
Business Operations Specialists
📌 Cost Planning Manager
🏢 Sydney Airport
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