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- Tasks: Shape commercial strategies for major infrastructure projects and ensure value for money.
- Company: Join a leading UK infrastructure organisation focused on a low-carbon future.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible home working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work with a diverse team and enjoy a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical energy projects while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in pre-contract quantity surveying and strong negotiation skills required.
Location: Predominantly home based with office visit 1-2 times per month.
Duration: 6 Months initial
Day Rate: From £500 per day (via Umbrella)
About the role
We're working with a major UK infrastructure organisation delivering critical energy transmission projects that support the UK's transition to a low-carbon future. They are seeking a Pre-Contract Quantity Surveyor to focus on the commercial and contractual shaping of projects before award, ensuring robust cost planning, risk allocation, and value for money across a portfolio of complex infrastructure schemes. This is a pre-construction focused role, working closely with procurement, development, and delivery teams to define commercial strategy, negotiate contract terms, and ensure optimal outcomes before contractors are appointed.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and support pre-contract commercial strategy, including procurement approach, contract packaging, and NEC/FIDIC selection
- Develop and validate cost estimates, budgets, risk allowances, and contingencies from business case through to contract award
- Prepare and review tender documentation, contract data, and commercial schedules
- Lead or support contract negotiations, ensuring value for money and commercially robust outcomes
- Review and challenge tender submissions, including pricing, programmes, and risk assumptions
- Support commercial risk management and cost analysis workshops (quantitative and qualitative)
- Maintain and update cost databases and benchmarking data
- Support regulatory reporting and cost submissions where required
- Contribute to continuous improvement of commercial processes and governance
About you
- Strong background in pre-contract QS / commercial management within construction or infrastructure
- Experience with NEC and/or FIDIC contracts (NEC4 preferred)
- Proven ability in cost planning, estimating, tender analysis, and commercial risk management
- Confident negotiator with strong stakeholder engagement skills
- Strong analytical skills (Excel / cost modelling / programme evaluation)
- Experience in regulated infrastructure or utilities is advantageous (not essential)
If this opportunity is of interest, apply now with an up-to-date CV for consideration!
Quantity Surveyor (pre-contract award) in Birmingham employer: Pontoon
Contact Detail:
Pontoon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Quantity Surveyor (pre-contract award) in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend relevant events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how your skills as a Quantity Surveyor can contribute to their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Quantity Surveyor, you'll need to negotiate contract terms effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence and refine your approach before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Quantity Surveyor (pre-contract award) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Quantity Surveyor role. Highlight your experience with NEC and FIDIC contracts, as well as your skills in cost planning and risk management. We want to see how your background aligns with 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 the perfect fit for this pre-contract role. Share specific examples of your past successes in commercial strategy and contract negotiations. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since strong analytical skills are key for this position, make sure to mention your proficiency in Excel and cost modelling. If you've worked on complex infrastructure projects, let us know how you tackled challenges and delivered results.
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. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pontoon
✨Know Your Contracts
Make sure you brush up on NEC and FIDIC contracts before your interview. Being able to discuss these in detail will show that you understand the commercial landscape and can navigate contract negotiations effectively.
✨Showcase Your Cost Planning Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with cost estimates, budgets, and risk allowances. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed these aspects in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability in pre-contract commercial strategy.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your stakeholder engagement skills during the interview. Be ready to share instances where you've successfully collaborated with procurement, development, or delivery teams to achieve optimal outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to review tender submissions or manage commercial risks, and be prepared to explain your thought process and outcomes.