We are Ridge, a Built Environment Consultancy. We help our clients transform the quality and sustainability of the built environment.
Our 1,400+ people bring a vast range of skills, delivering a professional mindset, gritty discipline and a genuine passion to every one of the thousands of projects they undertake each year. They’re the foundation of our success - they drive our vision, embody our values and separate us from the competition.
Come and join us if you’re hungry to be part of an exceptional team - if you put quality first - if you’re motivated by ingenuity and if you’re always aspiring to be the very best.
Your opportunity
Are you aspiring to start your career in the built environment industry?
We have an exciting opportunity for a Graduate Cost Manager to join our experienced and talented MEP Cost Management team in Oxford (Woodstock office).
At Ridge our people are the foundation of our success, and our greatest asset. Our people are what separate us, they drive our vision and embody our values. We offer not just a job, but a journey. We believe in commitment, and the value of a stable, flexible, long-term career path. We challenge our people to be the best they can be and help them grow with the right development.
Our graduate roles are real, genuine roles in our teams – you will play an important part in providing exceptional service to our clients and be exposed to a lot more client activity than you may be at the bigger consultancies. We want you to take pride in your work and feel valued for your contribution, so you can expect to be getting involved as soon as you are ready to do so.
Our projects include large residential, industrial, and commercial schemes with contract values over £30 million to smaller schemes and working for interesting clients including motor manufacturers, Schools/Universities, healthcare providers, contractors, developers etc.
As a Graduate MEP Cost Manager, your role will focus on support for building services engineering projects, as follows:
Mechanical – Help calculate costs for HVAC systems, ductwork, and mechanical plant installations. Review mechanical drawings, perform quantity take-offs for items like pipework and ventilation ductwork, and assist in preparing tender documents.
Electrical – Support the pricing of systems such as lighting, power distribution, fire alarms, and data cabling. Interpret electrical schematics, measure cable runs and containment, and request quotes from suppliers.
Plumbing – Assist with the costing of water supply, drainage, and sanitaryware. Interpret plumbing layouts, calculate pipe lengths, fixture quantities, and gather pricing from plumbing merchants.
What do I need to succeed?
Our people are at the heart of everything we do. You’ll play an integral part in our team, helping drive our vision, living our values and embracing our culture. So, if your answer is yes to all the following statements, we’d love to hear from you:
I have a 2:1 BSc in Quantity Surveying obtained in 2025 or 2026
I am available to start work full-time from October/November 2026
I have a permanent Right to Work in the UK and do not need visa sponsorship.
I am curious and eager to learn
I am passionate about the Built Environment — don’t take this one lightly! We love what we do and the Built Environment plays a vital role in the future of communities and society. It’s important we all share that passion so we can build legacies that last.
How will my career be supported?
Your development is our priority, so you can count on having the right tools, plenty of experience and the professional support you need to succeed. Here’s what you can expect in your first two years:
Professional support If you want to take your existing degree on to a Master’s, we can fund that. If you already hold an accredited degree for our industry, we have established guidance and a large network of internal ‘chartership champions’ who will support you to gain your professional chartership.
Technical learning We have a full timetable of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, such as webinars, short courses and masterclasses, to enhance your skills in focused areas. You’ll be allocated an experienced and knowledgeable mentor to be your trusted advisor throughout your programme.
Personal skills A tailored development plan will clearly map out opportunities for growth such as strengthening your soft skills and leadership. You’ll become a STEM ambassador, inspiring future generations of Built Environment professionals, representing us at industry events and sharing your experience to help shape tomorrow's talent. As a part of our vibrant and supportive Future Talent Community, you’ll connect with fellow graduates and apprentices. There will be opportunities to formally network and build your own personal connections. Your buddy will have walked the same path as you and is there for any support you may need, offering friendly guidance on your day-to-day experience.
Your benefits
The benefits package we have put together for you supports every aspect of your life.
Annual leave: A healthy holiday allowance that starts at 25 days pa, plus the option to buy, carry over or sell.
Community spirit: You can take three volunteering days each year to spend time on causes close to your heart.
Mental health: Mental Health First Aiders are here to support you, backed up by Unum’s Help@hand app.
Financial benefits: A path to peace of mind: life assurance, pension scheme and income protection.
Physical wellbeing: Your health is a priority for us too, so we offer medical insurance, private GP access and discounted gym membership.
Flexible working: Our flexible approach to hybrid working is there to suit you, your family and your team.
Career development: A pathway at Ridge that’s focused on your professional, personal or educational aspirations.
Extra benefits: Performance bonus, car allowance and more based on your role - and progression.
We've signed the Gradcracker feedback pledge.
(This means that we will supply feedback if requested after an interview.)
1e127ede32d8f816eacfb0aed73cee11
Can I use AI to apply?
We know AI tools can be useful for proofreading, improving grammar, or helping you structure your CV. And that's absolutely fine by us. However, when it comes to application questions and personal statements, we really want to hear directly from you.
Please tell us in your own words about your experiences, ambitions and motivations. Your application will stand out if it's honest, personal and unmistakably you. After all, it's you we want to get to know.
