JLL

Graduate Cost Manager

Shanghai, China Full time

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.  

Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong.  Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.   

Role Overview

As a Graduate Cost Manager in the PDS team, you will join JLL’s early careers program designed to cultivate the next generation of cost and commercial management professionals. You’ll support the financial stewardship of real estate projects—from feasibility and design through construction and handover—ensuring costs are accurately forecasted, controlled, and aligned with client objectives. This role combines on-the-job learning with structured training, mentorship, and pathways toward professional accreditation (e.g., RICS, CIOB).

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in preparing and maintaining cost plans, estimates, and budgets at all project stages (RIBA stages or equivalent).
  • Support quantity take-offs, cost modeling, and benchmarking using industry-standard databases and digital tools.
  • Help analyze contractor tenders, prepare bid evaluations, and support procurement processes.
  • Monitor project expenditures against forecasts, track commitments, and assist in forecasting final account positions.
  • Contribute to change order assessments, variation pricing, and contract administration support.
  • Maintain accurate cost documentation, including cost reports, risk registers, and value engineering analyses.
  • Collaborate with project managers, designers, contractors, and client teams to ensure cost transparency and value delivery.
  • Participate in JLL’s graduate development program, including technical workshops, software training (e.g., CostX, Excel advanced modeling), and professional body preparation.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree (or expected completion by start date) in Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, Commercial Management, Civil Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Strong numerical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with cost estimating software (e.g., CostX, Candy, or similar) is advantageous but not required.
  • Clear interest in real estate development, construction economics, or cost consultancy.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of multidisciplinary teams in dynamic environments.
  • Willingness to engage with project sites and stakeholders as needed.

Location:

On-site –Shanghai, China

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements.  We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

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Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.  If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process – including the online application and/or overall selection process – you may email us at HRSCLeaves@jll.com. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page > I want to work for JLL.