At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage costs and contracts for impactful water projects that benefit communities.
- Company: Join Southern Water, a leader in transforming the UK's water industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £65k, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to making a generational shift in water services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in sustainability and community welfare through your expertise.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualification in construction or quantity surveying with commercial management experience.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Falmer, hybrid working
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours
Salary: up to £65k
About the role
We’re expanding our commercial team to deliver Southern Water’s most ambitious capital programme to date. As a Senior Quantity Surveyor, you’ll play a pivotal role in managing cost, procurement, and contractual governance across large-scale projects that make a real difference to communities and the environment.
What you will be responsible for:
- Act as a key commercial partner, providing expert advice on cost management, procurement, and contractual strategy.
- Support the full commercial lifecycle—from feasibility and procurement through to change control and dispute resolution.
- Ensure governance, compliance, and control across all commercial activity.
- Collaborate with Project Managers and contractors to set realistic cost targets and contractual terms.
- Drive continuous improvement in managing commercial risk and delivering value for customers and stakeholders.
Additional Requirements
- Strong understanding of NEC contracts and commercial strategy (pre- and post-contract).
- Ability to influence stakeholders and work collaboratively across teams.
What you’ll bring to the role:
- Essential: Relevant qualification in construction or quantity surveying.
- Demonstrable experience in commercial management on large-scale infrastructure, utility, or construction projects.
- Strong commercial acumen and stakeholder engagement skills.
Desirable
- Experience in utilities or water sector.
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed. You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation.
Our mission is to protect and enhance life through water—and we need passionate people to help us achieve it. If you’re inspired by our purpose and believe you can contribute, apply today. You don’t need to meet every criterion; what matters most is your drive to make a difference.
If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself.
Our Commitment to Diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Additional information:
In line with Southern Water’s security requirements, successful candidates will be required to provide evidence of their identity, eligibility to work in the UK, criminal record check (DBS) and verification of their employment and/or education history for the past three years. Appointment to this role is subject to the successful completion of all pre-employment checks, including security vetting. Please note that if a candidate does not meet the required security standards or fails to pass the vetting process, Southern Water reserves the right to withdraw the offer of employment. Some positions may also require higher levels of security vetting, which may involve providing additional documentation.
Senior Quantity Surveyor employer: SouthernWaterServices
Southern Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Falmer where you can make a tangible impact on communities and the environment through your role as a Senior Quantity Surveyor. With a commitment to professional growth, a collaborative culture, and a focus on sustainability, you'll be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to transforming the water industry while enjoying the benefits of hybrid working and competitive remuneration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Quantity Surveyor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction and utilities sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Southern Water’s projects and values. Show us you’re genuinely interested in making a difference in the water industry. Tailor your answers to highlight how your experience aligns with their mission and the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Quantity Surveyor, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to manage costs and contracts effectively. Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully navigated similar challenges in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Southern Water. Let’s make waves together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Quantity Surveyor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Senior Quantity Surveyor role. Highlight your relevant qualifications and any experience with NEC contracts, as this will show us you understand 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 the role and how your background aligns with our mission at Southern Water. Don’t forget to mention your drive to make a difference in the water industry!
Showcase Your Commercial Acumen:In your application, be sure to demonstrate your strong commercial acumen and stakeholder engagement skills. We want to see examples of how you've influenced decisions and managed costs in previous projects.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at SouthernWaterServices
✨Know Your NEC Contracts
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of NEC contracts before the interview. Being able to discuss how these contracts influence cost management and procurement strategies will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory, but you can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed commercial risks or delivered value in large-scale projects. This will help demonstrate your strong commercial acumen and ability to influence stakeholders effectively.
✨Collaborative Mindset
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of instances where you’ve worked closely with project managers and contractors. Be ready to discuss how you set realistic cost targets and contractual terms while maintaining a positive working relationship.
✨Passion for Purpose
Southern Water is all about making a difference through water services. Be prepared to express why you’re passionate about this mission and how you believe your skills can contribute to their goals. Authenticity goes a long way!