At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pre-construction team with estimating and managing projects.
- Company: Dynamic infrastructure company focused on innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured development, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Gain exposure to complex projects while building your commercial career.
- Qualifications: Experience in Quantity Surveying or Assistant QS role preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
United Infrastructure is a dynamic and rapidly expanding business, focused on delivering critical infrastructure projects across the utility and social infrastructure sectors. Our team of highly skilled and hardworking specialists deliver innovative solutions to the complex challenges our clients face.
Utility Infrastructure – Our team of Utility Infrastructure specialists design, build and maintain critical water, energy (gas), power and telecoms infrastructure for the UK’s largest network owners and operators.
Social Infrastructure - Our team of Social Infrastructure specialists revitalise homes and communities by carrying out a wide range of work, from retrofit to refurbishment, and maintenance.
Equal Opportunities Statement - At United Infrastructure, we are committed to making every interaction a positive and inclusive experience. If there is anything we can do to support you, remove barriers, or make the process more accessible, please let us know — we want this to be the best possible experience for you.
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Assistant Quantity Surveyor to support our pre-construction team, with a key focus on estimating and managing PCSA (Pre-Construction Services Agreement) projects. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build their commercial career within a fast-paced environment, gaining exposure to complex schemes while taking ownership of cost planning, procurement support, and day-to-day commercial management during the pre-construction phase.
Key Responsibilities
- Estimating & Cost Planning
- Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets based on Employer’s Requirements, drawings, and specifications.
- Support the development and validation of cost plans throughout the PCSA lifecycle.
- Analyse supply chain quotations and benchmark pricing to ensure competitiveness.
- Assist in identifying risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
- PCSA Commercial Management
- Support and, where appropriate, take ownership of commercial management on live PCSA projects.
- Track and report cost movement, changes, and risk allowances throughout pre-construction.
- Assist in maintaining accurate financial records, forecasts, and reporting outputs.
- Contribute to the successful transition from pre-construction into delivery.
- Procurement & Supply Chain Engagement
- Assist with package scoping, tender enquiries, and evaluation of subcontractor returns.
- Engage with the supply chain to obtain competitive and compliant pricing.
- Support early contractor involvement and build strong supplier relationships.
- CVR & Reporting Support
- Contribute to the Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) process.
- Provide accurate and timely data for financial reporting and forecasting.
- Assist in highlighting cost risks and supporting mitigation strategies.
- Commercial Controls & Compliance
- Ensure adherence to commercial procedures, governance, and reporting standards.
- Maintain structured documentation and cost records in line with company processes.
- Support audits and ensure transparency of cost data and decision-making.
- Stakeholder Collaboration
- Work closely with Pre-Construction Managers, design teams, and senior QS staff.
- Support coordination between design, commercial, and operational functions.
- Participate in internal and external meetings where required.
About You
- Experience in a Quantity Surveying or Assistant QS role, ideally within pre-construction or estimating.
- Strong understanding of cost planning, estimating, and procurement processes.
- Familiarity with PCSA projects or early-stage project delivery (desirable).
- Good commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach.
- Working towards (or interested in) professional qualifications (e.g., RICS).
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Structured development and career progression opportunities.
- Exposure to complex, high-value projects.
- Supportive team environment with opportunities to grow.
If you’re looking to develop your career in quantity surveying with a focus on estimating and pre-construction project delivery, we’d love to hear from you. Join us at United Infrastructure and be part of our mission to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to the complex infrastructure needs of the UK.
Pre - Construction Assistant QS in Dartford employer: United Living Group
United Infrastructure is an excellent employer for those seeking to advance their careers in quantity surveying, particularly within the dynamic environment of Dartford. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a supportive team culture, we offer unique opportunities to work on complex infrastructure projects that make a real difference in communities. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking company that values innovation and inclusivity while providing a clear path for professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pre - Construction Assistant QS in Dartford
✨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 United Living Group, 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 Pre - Construction Assistant QS at United Living Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Pre - Construction Assistant QS in Dartford
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 United Living Group
✨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!
