Surveyor - Cost Manager in Chelmsford, Essex

Surveyor - Cost Manager in Chelmsford, Essex

Chelmsford +1 Full-Time 85000 - 95000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead exciting new build projects worth £60m, managing budgets and subcontractors.
  • Company: Award-winning Tier 1 Main Contractor with a strong presence in Essex.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare, pension, and support for RICS or CIOB chartership.
  • Other info: Opportunity to manage a team and grow your career in a supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on large-scale construction projects.
  • Qualifications: 7-10 years experience as a QS with a degree in Quantity Surveying or related field.

The predicted salary is between 85000 - 95000 £ per year.

Job Type: Permanent

Start Date: August/Sept 2026 onwards (flexible)

Salary: c£85k-£95k basic (DOE) plus competitive package including allowance, healthcare, pension.

Company & Project: A successful and award-winning Tier 1 Main Contractor operating across Essex is currently recruiting for a Managing Quantity Surveyor to oversee c£60m worth of New Build projects, currently in the 2nd stage and moving to site in Autumn 2026.

The Managing Quantity Surveyor will be overseeing projects starting in pre-construction and moving to site; therefore, experience working with Pre-construction services agreements (PCSA) is essential for this position. The successful candidate will take responsibility for leading commercial functions during the 2nd stage including:

  • Defining scopes: Identifying suitable subcontractors and tender reconciliations.
  • Cost Planning: Manage the project budget as the design progresses from RIBA Stage 3 to 4.
  • Value Engineering: Proactively identify cost-saving opportunities and alternative construction methods to align the design with the client's budget without compromising quality.
  • Risk Management: Quantify commercial risks.
  • Coordination: Coordinate with the design team, managing subcontractor design fees and liabilities.
  • 2nd-Stage Negotiation: Act as the commercial lead in transitioning the project to the main contract.

In addition to commercial delivery when the project moves to on-site delivery, the role includes managing all daily commercial management functions, including but not limited to:

  • Reconciling accounts.
  • Dealing with sub-contract orders and enquiries, through to practical completion of the project.
  • Settling final accounts.

Previous experience on projects £20m+ as Number 1 QS is essential, along with working on 2-stage projects/with PCSAs. As this position is a Management role, the successful candidate will be expected to manage 1-3 Quantity Surveyors assigned to the projects they are responsible for.

Minimum 7-10 years+ experience as a QS working for a Main Contractor. Excellent negotiation skills and previous experience procuring subcontractors are required. Experience working with Pre-construction services agreements (PCSA) is also necessary.

Previous Roles: Managing Quantity Surveyor OR Senior Quantity Surveyor OR Commercial Manager OR Project QS OR Senior Cost Manager.

Degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Management or comparable qualification including HNC, BTEC, NVQ or MSc.

This Main Contractor is also keen to support any employee looking to undertake their RICS or CIOB chartership.

If you would like more information on this Managing Quantity Surveyor position or any other vacancy, please email your current CV.

Locations

ChelmsfordEssex

Surveyor - Cost Manager in Chelmsford, Essex employer: APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED

Join a prestigious Tier 1 Main Contractor in Essex, where your expertise as a Managing Quantity Surveyor will be valued and rewarded. With a competitive salary package, comprehensive healthcare benefits, and a strong commitment to employee development, including support for RICS or CIOB chartership, this company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. You'll have the opportunity to lead significant projects while working alongside a talented team, ensuring both personal and professional growth in a dynamic environment.

APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED

Contact Details:

APPLE TECHNICAL RECRUITMENT (UK) LIMITED Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Surveyor - Cost Manager in Chelmsford, Essex

Cost Planning
Value Engineering
Risk Management
Negotiation Skills
Commercial Management
Subcontractor Procurement
Project Budget Management