At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage project budgets, procure subcontractors, and ensure successful project delivery.
- Company: Family-run construction business with over 40 years of experience in the South West.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, holiday, pension, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available and strong career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on diverse construction projects.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND/Degree in Quantity Surveying or related field; experience in UK construction.
Permanent | Full-time (40 hrs) | Hybrid options (for the right candidate)
Salary: £50,000-£80,000 DOE + £5,000 car allowance + holiday + pension
Office base: Taunton
About my client
My client is a family-run construction business established over 40 years ago, delivering a wide range of domestic and commercial projects across the South West. Their work includes new builds, renovations and barn conversions, with experience in sectors such as retail, healthcare, education and heritage.
The role
My client is looking for a Quantity Surveyor to strengthen their commercial capability and support the successful delivery of projects typically ranging from circa £100k-£1m. You'll work closely with the site and project team to maintain robust cost control, manage subcontract procurement and accounts, and help ensure projects are delivered safely, profitably and to client expectations. Given the nature of the work in live and sensitive environments (including healthcare) and on heritage buildings, you'll need to be organised, detail-focused and confident managing commercial risk while maintaining excellent stakeholder relationships.
Key responsibilities
- Prepare and manage project budgets, cost plans and cashflows.
- Produce monthly valuations, applications for payment and cost reports/CVRs.
- Procure subcontractors and suppliers: enquiries, comparisons, negotiation and placing orders.
- Draft/agree subcontract terms (and support main contract administration where required).
- Measure works (including take-offs) and manage variations/change control through to agreement.
- Assess subcontractor applications, certify payments and manage contra charges.
- Maintain robust records: orders, valuations, instructions, variations, correspondence and claims support.
- Identify, price and mitigate commercial risks and opportunities throughout the project lifecycle.
- Support forecasting, programme-linked spend and cost-to-complete updates.
- Assist with final accounts (client and subcontractor), including evidence compilation and negotiation.
- Contribute to improving commercial processes, templates and reporting across the business.
- Build strong working relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors and internal teams.
- Evaluate tenders for feasibility and produce estimates for new work.
Essential qualifications & experience
- HNC/HND/Degree (or equivalent) in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or related discipline.
- Proven experience as a QS / Assistant QS (ready to step up) within a UK construction contractor environment.
- Strong understanding of measurement, valuations, variations and final accounts.
- Confident working with subcontractors/suppliers and managing procurement and payments.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and cost reporting.
- Full UK driving licence (site travel required).
Desirable
- MRICS (or working towards APC) or a clear commitment to professional development.
- Experience across refurbishment/fit-out, live environment works (e.g., NHS), or heritage/refurbishment projects.
- Familiarity with common UK construction contracts (e.g., JCT) (forms used TBC).
- Experience working on projects in the £100k-£1m range.
Package & benefits (indicative / TBC)
- Car allowance (£5k)
- Mobile phone for work use (in line with other operational roles)
- Pension
- Holiday allowance (29 days including bank holidays)
- Ongoing training and development
- Hybrid/home working: likely 3/4 days office + site based (TBC)
Equal opportunities
My client is an equal opportunities employer. They welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Quantity Surveyor in Taunton employer: HR GO Recruitment
Contact Detail:
HR GO Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Quantity Surveyor in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the construction industry. Attend local events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Quantity Surveyor role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, be ready to discuss your experience with project budgets and cost control. Share specific examples of how you've managed commercial risks and built strong relationships with clients and subcontractors.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities for Quantity Surveyors, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications and updates all in one place.
We think you need these skills to ace Quantity Surveyor in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Quantity Surveyor role. Highlight your relevant experience in cost control, procurement, and project management. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've successfully managed budgets or improved processes in previous roles. We appreciate candidates who can demonstrate their impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at HR GO Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Quantity Surveyor, you'll be dealing with budgets and cost plans. Brush up on your financial acumen before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've managed project budgets in the past and any specific tools or software you’ve used, especially Microsoft Excel.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous projects, particularly those in the £100k-£1m range. Highlight your role in managing subcontractors, handling variations, and ensuring projects meet client expectations. Real-life examples will make your experience more relatable and impressive.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Since the company is family-run and values strong relationships, do some research on their history and projects. Mention how your values align with theirs during the interview. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of their team.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about their projects, team dynamics, and future goals. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you. Ask about their approach to commercial risk management, as it’s crucial for the role.