At a Glance
- Tasks: Support social housing projects by managing contracts and ensuring cost-effective delivery.
- Company: Growing organisation focused on social housing maintenance and improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent role, and opportunities for progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantity surveying and knowledge of SOR contracts.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a stable work environment.
Please make sure you read the following details carefully before making any applications.
Sector: Social Housing
Location: Essex
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 per annum
About the Role
We are looking for a motivated Junior Quantity Surveyor to join our growing team, supporting the delivery of social housing maintenance and improvement works across Essex. This role is ideal for someone with solid experience in Schedule of Rates (SOR) contracts and early exposure to contract management within a social housing or maintenance environment. You will work closely with senior commercial staff, contractors, and operational teams to ensure works are delivered efficiently, cost-effectively, and in line with contractual and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the commercial management of responsive repairs, planned maintenance, and minor works contracts within social housing
- Manage and validate contractor applications and valuations using SOR frameworks (e.g. NHF or similar)
- Monitor costs, budgets, and forecasts, highlighting risks and opportunities
- Support contract administration, including variations, compensation events, and change control
- Carry out cost checks, post-inspections, and value-for-money assessments
- Liaise with contractors, housing officers, and internal stakeholders to resolve commercial and contractual issues
- Assist with final accounts and reporting
- Ensure compliance with contract terms, policies, and relevant legislation
Essential Skills & Experience
- Previous experience working as a Junior Quantity Surveyor or Assistant QS within social housing, housing maintenance, or a similar environment
- Strong working knowledge of SOR-based contracts and pricing mechanisms
- Experience supporting or managing contracts, including variations and valuations
- Good commercial awareness and attention to detail
- Ability to communicate effectively with contractors and internal teams
- Competent with Excel and commercial systems
Desirable
- Experience working with NHF Schedule of Rates
- Knowledge of responsive repairs and planned works contracts
- Experience working for or with local authorities or housing associations
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of £45,000 - £55,000
- Permanent, stable role within a growing organisation
- Opportunities for progression and professional development
- Supportive team environment
Junior Quantity Surveyor in Chelmsford employer: Daniel Owen Ltd
Contact Detail:
Daniel Owen Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Quantity Surveyor in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and understanding their projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience with SOR contracts can benefit them. Show enthusiasm for social housing and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable talking about your past experiences and how they relate to the role of a Junior Quantity Surveyor. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Quantity Surveyor in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start your application, make sure you’ve read the job description carefully. We want to see that you understand the role and how your experience aligns with what we’re looking for.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience in social housing and SOR contracts. We love seeing how your skills match our needs, so make it personal!
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, be sure to showcase your commercial awareness and attention to detail. Mention specific examples of how you've managed contracts or resolved issues in previous roles – we want to know what you can bring to our team!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Daniel Owen Ltd
✨Know Your SORs
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Schedule of Rates (SOR) contracts before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've used SOR frameworks in past roles, as this will show your understanding of the commercial aspects of the job.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with contractors and internal teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've effectively resolved issues or collaborated with others in previous positions.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about contract management and cost monitoring. Brush up on your knowledge of variations, compensation events, and change control processes, as these are key responsibilities in the role.
✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is vital in quantity surveying. Prepare to discuss specific instances where your attention to detail has led to successful outcomes, whether in cost checks or value-for-money assessments.