At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial management for exciting rail projects and oversee a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Octavius, a forward-thinking company transforming rail renewals.
- Benefits: Enjoy a company car, private healthcare, hybrid working, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Inclusive environment focused on diversity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking programme that shapes the future of rail delivery.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Managing QS or Senior QS with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Managing Quantity Surveyor to join Octavius, supporting our work on the Southern Renewals Enterprise (SRE), a 10‑year programme transforming how rail renewals are delivered across Network Rail's Southern region. As one of a small number of Project 13 enterprise agreements, SRE represents a step change in how the industry collaborates and delivers, making this a rare opportunity to be part of a truly integrated, long‑term programme.
This is an opportunity to take a leading commercial role within our Electrification & Plant (E&P) package. Operating in a high‑tempo, delivery‑focused environment, you will:
- Lead the commercial management across high volume, small scale projects
- Oversee a team of 12 (Graduates and Apprentices, QS, SQS and consultants)
- Drive cost control, forecasting and reporting
- Ensure effective contract administration and proactive risk and opportunity management
The SRE is delivered under Project 13 enterprise principles, bringing together partners in a more integrated, collaborative model focused on long‑term outcomes and performance.
You'll work with:
- Internal commercial and E&P delivery teams
- Network Rail and key programme partners
- A diverse and active supply chain
This is a role that requires strong stakeholder management and clear leadership, particularly within a busy, high‑volume framework.
You'll receive:
- Company Car scheme
- Private Healthcare
- Pension and Life Assurance
- 25 days Annual Leave + your birthday off
- Hybrid working (typically London / site c.3 days per week)
- Enhanced family leave policies
- Ongoing professional development and progression opportunities
About You… You’re a confident commercial leader who thrives in fast‑paced, high‑volume delivery environments, managing multiple projects without losing grip on performance, detail or team engagement.
You'll bring:
- Proven experience operating at Managing QS or Senior QS level across multiple projects
- Strong people leadership, with experience managing and developing teams
- The ability to prioritise across a high volume of live projects
- Solid knowledge of contract administration, cost control and commercial reporting, with experience working under NEC contracts
- Confidence in commercial decision‑making and stakeholder engagement
- A proactive approach to managing risk, performance and outcomes
- A collaborative style with the ability to influence at all levels
If you're looking for a role where you can lead a team, influence performance and be part of a long‑term, high‑profile rail programme we’d love to hear from you.
Inclusion and diversity are important to us, we are an equal opportunities employer and value difference. We want and will continue to build an inclusive environment where our people thrive. We firmly believe constantly striving to build a truly diverse workforce is what makes us a strong business and will enable us to continue to solve important problems and deliver unrivalled value to both our customers and clients.
If you need any specialist support throughout your application, we will work with you where we can to support your journey with us.
Managing Quantity Surveyor – Rail employer: Octavius Infrastructure
Octavius is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation within the rail industry. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from ongoing professional growth opportunities, a supportive team environment, and a comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare and hybrid working arrangements. Join us in shaping the future of rail renewals while enjoying a fulfilling career in a high-tempo, delivery-focused setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Quantity Surveyor – Rail
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Octavius Infrastructure, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Managing Quantity Surveyor – Rail at Octavius Infrastructure.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Quantity Surveyor – Rail
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Octavius Infrastructure
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
