At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Principal Quantity Surveyor in managing commercial functions on construction projects.
- Company: Join Willmott Dixon, a leading contractor with a strong commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a motoring expenditure allowance.
- Other info: Be part of a company recognised for its commitment to gender equality and sustainable development.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment while working towards your Quantity Surveying career.
- Qualifications: Proficient in Microsoft Excel, with a level 3 qualification and a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Willmott Dixon are looking to employ a Commercial Assistant on a 12-month fixed term contract in the Bristol region. This role would primarily support the Principal Quantity Surveyor and local project delivery team in maintaining the smooth running of the commercial function on construction projects.
Reporting to the Principal Quantity Surveyor, the successful candidate will support with tasks relating to the commercial administration and financial control of Willmott Dixon's supply chain partners, delivering works on projects in line with their Sub-Contract Agreements on time, within budget and in-line with the specification and quality standards. This is the ideal opportunity for an aspiring Quantity Surveyor to further develop their skills and gain practical experience within a main contractor. Working from our Bristol office and attending sites in the local area, the successful applicant will perform commercial tasks with the supervision and support of an experienced team.
Responsibilities
- Compile and issue tenders
- Prepare tender comparisons
- Prepare, issue, and manage Purchase Orders
- Assist in preparation of subcontract orders
- Undertake take-off and remeasurement
- Assist in preparation of monthly interim payments
- Support the preparation and agreement of subcontract final accounts
- Regular site visits to Willmott Dixon construction projects
- Assist with the implementation of AI cost analysis
Essential and Desirable Criteria
Essential
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications
- Full UK Driving License with access to your own vehicle
- Reside within a commutable distance to the Bristol region to access the office and local construction sites
- Possess a level 3 qualification (T-Level, BTEC, A-Level, NVQ etc)
Desirable
- Have, or working towards a construction related degree (Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management)
- Appropriate CSCS card
We reward our people generously with a competitive salary and a market-leading benefits package that gives you flexible benefits to fit your lifestyle and priorities. This includes but is not limited to, an enhanced pension scheme, discounted private medical, and life assurance. This role will benefit from a motoring expenditure allowance (MEA).
We are a proud member of the Disability Confident Scheme.
With over 170 years of rich history, Willmott Dixon's purpose is beyond profit; delivering brilliant buildings, transforming lives, strengthening communities and enhancing the environment so our world is fit for future generations. Ensuring that we add lasting value to the neighbourhoods we work in; our values, people, innovation, partnerships and focus on sustainability has allowed us to build a successful and solid privately owned business where our people can thrive.
Willmott Dixon was recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the Top 10 "Big" Companies to Work For in 2025, named among the Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality in 2024, and ranked in the Top Five of Europe's 1,000 best workplaces by the Financial Times in 2025. Willmott Dixon is also the first major contractor and developer to win a King's Award for Enterprise in the category of sustainable development.
Commercial Assistant (12-month FTC) in Pill employer: Willmott Dixon Group
Willmott Dixon Group is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation within the Interiors team. With the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements, employees enjoy a balanced lifestyle while benefiting from professional growth opportunities and a supportive environment that encourages strong inter-team relationships.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Assistant (12-month FTC) in Pill
✨Get Your Foot in the Door
Temporary roles in construction often rely on quick recruitment, so make sure to visit local recruitment agencies that specialise in the construction sector. They usually have a go-to list of companies that need staff urgently, helping us connect with potential employers faster.
✨Leverage Community Connections
Construction is all about connections! Check out local trade events, networking gatherings, or even social media groups focused on your area. Engaging with the community can lead to insider knowledge about temporary job openings that might not be advertised anywhere else.
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Solid Portfolio
Even for temporary gigs, a visual portfolio can really set you apart. Take photos of previous projects you’ve worked on, or if you're fresh in the industry, show examples of your work during training. This can help us demonstrate our hands-on experience to potential employers, like Willmott Dixon Group.
✨Apply Directly at Construction Sites
Don’t overlook the power of walking directly into construction sites. Many temporary positions are filled on the spot, so it’s worth popping by local sites and having a face-to-face chat. Bring your CV and be ready to impress, as companies like Willmott Dixon Group appreciate proactive candidates ready to jump in when needed.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Assistant (12-month FTC) in Pill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:In the construction game, having hands-on experience matters! Be sure to showcase any previous temporary roles or projects you've worked on in your CV. Mention specific skills like safety protocols, tools you're familiar with, or types of construction work you've done – this will help you stand out!
Showcase Certifications and Training:If you've got any relevant certifications or training like a CSCS card or health and safety courses, flaunt them! Include them in your CV and mention them in your cover letter. It shows that you're not just ready to get to work but that you've got the essential safety knowledge, which is super important in the construction industry.
Emphasise Flexibility and Availability:For a temporary role, flexibility is key! In your cover letter, make sure to clearly state your availability – are you ready to start immediately? Can you work various shifts? Letting Willmott Dixon Group know how adaptable you are might just get you the edge over other candidates.
Keep it Concise and Clear:When applying for temporary roles in construction, employers often appreciate brevity. Keep your CV and cover letter clear and to the point. Focus on the skills and experiences that align most with what Willmott Dixon Group is looking for. Avoid unnecessary fluff to make it easier for them to see why you’re the perfect fit!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willmott Dixon Group
✨Show Off Your Safety Knowledge
In construction, health and safety is non-negotiable. Get comfortable with specific safety regulations like COSHH or Working at Height – you might get asked how you’d handle risk assessments or unsafe conditions. We need to show that we prioritise safety above all else.
✨Be Ready for Hands-On Scenarios
Expect practical questions or even a mini test where you’ll need to demonstrate basic skills. They might set up a scenario and ask how you would approach a specific task. Let’s prepare by brushing up on our trade skills and thinking through past projects we’ve worked on.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since this is a temporary role, they’ll want to know if you can adapt quickly to different teams and situations. Let's think about past experiences where we've had to adjust on the fly. This will show we’re ready to hit the ground running!
✨Highlight Your Previous Experience
Temporary roles often require hitting the ground running, so make sure to have a few stories lined up that showcase your relevant experience in construction. We want to emphasise skills that might not be on our CV—like teamwork and problem-solving when things don't go to plan.