Freelance Quantity Surveyor – TD8 (Roxburghshire / Scottish Borders)
£350-£400 per day
Regional Contractor | Heritage Projects & Small New-Build Schemes
Ongoing Assignment | Office-Based | Reporting to the Managing Director
A long-standing regional contractor is seeking a dedicated Freelance Quantity Surveyor to manage a varied portfolio of heritage restorations and small new-build schemes across the Scottish Borders. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially strong QS who enjoys hands-on involvement across all project stages and can operate with autonomy.
The Role
You will be responsible for the commercial management of 4–5 live projects, typically ranging from £20K to £1M, spanning heritage refurbishments, conservation works, and small bespoke new-builds. This role covers full lifecycle commercial oversight, from early estimating through to final accounts.
Key Responsibilities
* Tendering & Estimating
* Preparing detailed cost estimates, bills of quantities, and tender submissions
* Conducting site visits to understand project scope and constraints
* Developing pricing strategies in collaboration with the MD
* Procurement & Cost Control
* Preparing and issuing subcontract packages
* Negotiating terms, reviewing quotes, and recommending appointments
* Monitoring project costs against budgets and forecasts
* Identifying risks, variations, and potential cost-saving opportunities
* Commercial Management
* Managing valuations, applications for payment, and cashflow forecasts
* Maintaining accurate records and ensuring commercial compliance
* Preparing, negotiating, and agreeing final accounts
* Liaising closely with site teams, clients, subcontractors, and conservation professionals
* Reporting & Collaboration
* Providing regular updates directly to the Managing Director
* Highlighting commercial risks, opportunities, and project performance
* Ensuring strong communication channels across all project stakeholders
This is an office-based role in the TD8 area, though occasional site visits within the region will be required.
Experience & Skills Required
We are seeking a Quantity Surveyor who brings a strong blend of practical experience and professional competency.
Essential Experience
* Minimum of 5+ years’ experience as a QS within a main contractor or specialist contractor environment
* Proven ability to manage multiple small-to-medium projects concurrently
* Strong experience in both estimating and post-contract commercial management
* Demonstrable experience overseeing projects from tender stage to final account
* Proficiency with standard forms of contract (e.g., JCT) and contractual administration
* Strong negotiation and analytical skills
Desirable Experience
* Background in heritage, conservation, or refurbishment projects
* Experience with small bespoke new-builds
* Previous freelance/contract QS experience
Personal Attributes
* Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
* Capable of working independently and prioritising workload effectively
* Professional communicator with the ability to build strong relationships
* Commercially savvy, proactive, and solution-focused
* Comfortable reporting directly to senior leadership
What’s on Offer
* Ongoing, long-term freelance assignment
* Competitive day rate (DOE)
* Opportunity to work closely with an experienced Managing Director
* Exposure to unique heritage and conservation-led projects
* Stable workload within a supportive regional contractor
If you’re an experienced and commercially driven QS looking for a long-term freelance role with a contractor that values quality, heritage craftsmanship, and personal accountability, we’d be pleased to hear from you.
Apply today or get in touch for a confidential discussion.