Managing Quantity Surveyor - Regional Civil Engineering | Highways & Infrastructure
The Opportunity
We’re looking for an experienced Managing Quantity Surveyor to take commercial ownership of regional highways and infrastructure schemes across the South West. This role sits within a growing self-delivery civil engineering business delivering regional highways and infrastructure projects for:
Local Authorities
National Highways
Private Developers
Tier 1 Main Contractors Based from Taunton, this is an opportunity to lead commercially across a strong portfolio of work while helping shape the continued growth of the region.
The Business
This regional civil engineering arm delivers:
Highways new build schemes
Public realm and urban infrastructure
Framework packages
Bridges and Structures Projects range from reactive works through to larger infrastructure schemes exceeding £10m, with a healthy and growing pipeline across the South West.
The Role
As Managing Quantity Surveyor, you will take commercial ownership of a portfolio of self-delivered highways and Civils schemes, working closely with operational teams to drive performance, margin and governance. With a regional turnover of circa £20m, you’ll lead and support a commercial team (Assistant QS to Senior QS level) and play a key role in strengthening commercial discipline across the region.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading commercial delivery across multiple highways projects
Managing NEC contracts and ensuring robust governance
Driving CVRs, forecasting and reporting
Proactive risk and opportunity management
Supporting bid input and pricing where required
Developing and mentoring commercial team members
Working collaboratively with delivery teams and key clients You’ll typically operate in a hybrid pattern, spending around 3 days on site or in Taunton and 2 days from home, depending on project demands.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a commercially capable Managing Quantity Surveyor with a background in regional civil engineering and highways.
You’ll bring:
Strong NEC contract knowledge
Experience delivering highways or infrastructure projects
Experience managing or mentoring junior QS staff
A proactive, solutions-focused mindset
Confidence working directly with clients and operational teams
Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying or similar
Professional membership desirable but not essential You’ll be comfortable operating with autonomy while still being part of a structured and supportive regional team.
What’s On Offer
Competitive salary (based on experience)
£7500 car Allowance
Private healthcare
Pension & life assurance
25 days annual leave plus birthday off
Hybrid working
Enhanced parental benefits
Long-term career progression within a growing highways business Why This Role?
If you’re a commercially strong MQS ready to step into broader responsibility within regional civil engineering — without jumping into corporate layers — this is a serious South West opportunity