At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage contracts, analyse risks, and collaborate with stakeholders on impactful construction projects.
- Company: Join United Utilities, a leader in sustainable construction and community-focused projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, competitive pension, performance bonuses, and wellness discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working options and excellent career growth opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a difference in society while advancing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying or relevant experience; strong negotiation and communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About us
Salary - Competitive Salary
Work Type - Hybrid
Job Location - North Hub Preston - The Lancashire Hub, Preston City Park, Bluebell Way, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 5PE
Role Type - Permanent
Employment Type - Full Time
Working Hours - Benefits
- A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
- A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
- Up to 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
- A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company‑funded scheme
- MyGym Discounts – gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
- Best Doctors
- Salary Finance
- Wealth at Work courses
- Deals and discounts
- EVolve Car Scheme
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Mental health first aiders
- Share Buy MORE Choices flexible benefits
- Enhanced parental leave schemes
Job Purpose
Are you an experienced Quantity Surveyor looking for a rewarding career that combines your passion for construction and stakeholder management with sustainable, large‑scale projects that benefit society and the environment? If yes, then United Utilities (UU) have exciting opportunities for you to join our teams across multiple locations in the North West of England. UU are experiencing a period of growth and transformation, creating several opportunities within our Commercial function to work alongside our largest and most ambitious new projects.
As a Quantity Surveyor you will lead and support one of several business‑critical teams, managing a multitude of responsibilities. You will have the opportunity to manage a range of activities, including contract management, risk analysis, supplier collaboration and commercial operations, whilst ensuring value for money for our customers and our continued commitment to the North West, England. In joining us, you will have full exposure to the organisation, our major projects and our largest industry partners.
Stakeholder collaboration is vital for this role. You will therefore need to build strong working relationships, manage key internal and external stakeholders effectively and ensure a full business‑partnering model, whilst maximising value, collaborating with other experts and leading initiatives to tackle challenges unique to our industry, contributing to our success and helping us achieve our objectives.
We champion flexible ways of working. In‑person attendance is required three days per week to promote the benefits of face‑to‑face collaboration, alongside flexibility of hours to support work‑life balance. Initially, you may be expected to attend more frequently to familiarise yourself with the site, the team, and your role.
Accountabilities & Responsibilities
- Ensure contractual compliance and proactively manage contractor performance throughout the contract period.
- Act as a subject‑matter expert.
- Provide commercial expertise and guidance.
- Commercially manage a portfolio of Works contracts to ensure that they are delivered in accordance with the contracted terms and conditions and that all issues are mitigated and managed to protect UU commercial interests.
- Manage post‑contract commercial processes and procedures to deliver key commercial requirements on projects. These will include early warning and change management; cost forecasting; payments; cost auditing and agreement of final accounts.
- Negotiate and resolve contract claims/disputes and support senior managers in the resolution of escalated issues.
Technical Skills & Experience
- Quantity Surveying degree or equivalent; alternatively sufficient relevant experience to support the requirements of the RICS Professional Experience Route.
- Knowledge of key quantity surveying processes, tools and methodologies used across the whole project life‑cycle.
- Knowledge and experience in the use of a broad range of standard forms of construction contract (preferably including NEC suite of contracts).
- Strong commercial negotiation and resolution skills.
- Experience of managing the commercial function on projects.
- Experience of line management.
- Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent and ability to use IT systems and programmes.
- Full UK Driving License.
Qualifications
- Quantity Surveying degree or equivalent; alternatively sufficient relevant experience to support the requirements of the RICS Professional Experience Route.
- Full UK Driving License.
Quantity Surveyor in Preston employer: United Utilities
United Utilities is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Preston that champions both professional growth and employee well-being. With a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a robust pension scheme, we prioritise our employees' health and work-life balance through flexible working arrangements and comprehensive benefits. Join us to be part of meaningful projects that not only advance your career but also contribute positively to society and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quantity Surveyor in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction industry and let them know you're on the lookout for Quantity Surveyor roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in what we do at United Utilities, and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to our ambitious goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Quantity Surveyor, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage contracts and resolve disputes. Role-play with a friend or mentor to get comfortable discussing commercial terms.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at United Utilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Quantity Surveyor in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Quantity Surveyor role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our projects. Keep it engaging and personal, so we get a sense of who you are.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate your skills through examples. Whether it's contract management or stakeholder collaboration, we love seeing real-life applications of your expertise.
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!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Utilities
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Quantity Surveyor, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of cost management and financial forecasting. Brush up on key metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in past projects. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Stakeholder collaboration is crucial for this role. Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships with clients, contractors, and team members. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you navigated them to ensure project success.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Contracts
Make sure you understand the different types of construction contracts, especially the NEC suite mentioned in the job description. Be prepared to discuss your experience with contract management and how you've handled disputes or claims in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
The role involves tackling unique challenges in the industry. Think of specific instances where you identified a problem, proposed a solution, and successfully implemented it. This will show your potential employer that you can think critically and act decisively.
