At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in measuring works, preparing tenders, and managing project costs.
- Company: Family-run specialist contractor with a diverse range of construction projects.
- Benefits: Gain practical experience, mentorship from experts, and flexible hours for students.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and hands-on experience in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Develop your skills in a dynamic environment while working on exciting construction projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying or currently studying towards one.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
C.D.S. (Scotland) Ltd is a family-run specialist contractor based in Bathgate, providing services to the construction and civil engineering industries across Scotland and the wider UK. We have a team of around 50 experienced operatives working across various locations and carry out a wide range of specialist works including Diamond Drilling, Wire Sawing, Wall and Track Sawing, Hand and Chain Sawing, Hydro Demolition, Controlled Demolition, Internal Strip-Outs, Structural Alterations, Passive Fire Protection and Floor Preparation.
We are looking for a Graduate / Assistant Quantity Surveyor to join our commercial team. The successful candidate will either have completed a Quantity Surveying degree or be currently working towards one. The position is full-time; however, we would also consider a part-time position for someone who is currently completing a Quantity Surveying degree. Part-time hours can be discussed around university commitments. This is an opportunity to gain practical experience within a busy specialist contractor and develop your commercial knowledge across a range of live construction projects.
The Role
The role will be based in our Bathgate office, with regular site visits as required. You will work closely with our Senior Quantity Surveyor, who will provide support and guidance as you develop your knowledge and experience. You will also work alongside our project managers, site teams and operatives, giving you the opportunity to understand both the commercial and practical side of the work we undertake. You will have the opportunity to work on different types of projects and gain experience across the full commercial process, from estimating and tendering through to measurement, valuations, cost reporting, variations, contractual matters and final accounts.
The role will involve assisting with:
- Measuring works from drawings, specifications and site information
- Preparing and reviewing Bills of Quantities
- Preparing tenders and quotations
- Assisting with monthly applications and valuations
- Preparing and updating cost reports and CVRs (Cost Value Reconciliations)
- Monitoring project costs and budgets
- Pricing and assisting with variations, compensation events and changes to the works
- Maintaining accurate project and commercial records
- Assisting with subcontractor and supplier accounts
- Assisting with final accounts
- Reviewing progress on site and gathering information from site teams
- Carrying out site measurements where required
- General quantity surveying and commercial administration duties
As you gain experience, you will be given more responsibility and the opportunity to manage parts of projects yourself, with support from the Senior Quantity Surveyor and the wider commercial team.
About You
We are looking for someone who is organised, practical and keen to learn. You don’t need to know everything when you start. We are more interested in finding someone with the right attitude, who is willing to learn, asks questions, takes pride in their work and wants to get involved. You should have good numerical and analytical skills, pay attention to detail and be comfortable working with figures and spreadsheets. Good communication skills are important as the role will involve dealing with site teams, suppliers, clients and colleagues on a regular basis. You will need to be able to manage your own workload, meet deadlines and be willing to get involved with different aspects of the business.
Essential
- Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying or currently working towards a Quantity Surveying degree
- Good numerical and analytical skills
- Good attention to detail
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Good IT skills, particularly Microsoft Excel
- Good organisational skills
- Willingness to learn and develop
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Desirable
- Previous construction industry experience
- Construction placement or site experience
- Experience with measurement or Bills of Quantities
- An understanding of NEC, JCT or SBCC contracts
- Experience using estimating, measurement or quantity surveying software
- Previous experience working for a contractor or subcontractor
Previous experience is not essential. Experience in demolition, concrete drilling and cutting, fire protection or other specialist construction works would be beneficial but is not required. You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge of our specialist works as you become familiar with the business.
Why Work With CDS?
CDS has a varied workload across a number of different sectors. Our work covers a wide range of specialist construction activities, meaning no two projects are necessarily the same. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to:
- Work directly alongside an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor
- Gain practical experience across a wide range of specialist construction projects
- Get regular exposure to live construction sites
- Develop experience across the full commercial process
- Work alongside experienced project managers, site teams and operatives
- Gain an understanding of both the commercial and practical side of construction
- Take on increasing responsibility as your knowledge and experience develops
- Become involved in different areas of quantity surveying rather than being limited to one type of work
The role will give you the opportunity to develop your commercial experience within a growing, family-run specialist contractor and become part of the CDS commercial team.
Location: Bathgate, West Lothian
Position: Full-Time, with part-time considered for candidates currently completing a Quantity Surveying degree
Graduate / Assistant Quantity Surveyor in Bathgate employer: Orange Recruitment
At Orange Recruitment, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and high-quality service. Our Aberystwyth location provides a vibrant community atmosphere, with opportunities for professional growth and development in the housing and estate maintenance sector. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying competitive benefits and a commitment to employee well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate / Assistant Quantity Surveyor in Bathgate
✨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 Orange Recruitment, 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 Graduate / Assistant Quantity Surveyor at Orange Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate / Assistant Quantity Surveyor in Bathgate
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 Orange Recruitment
✨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!
