Senior Quantity Surveyor – Contractor Role
📊 Reports to: Projects Commercial Director
Job Purpose
Working within the Project Commercial Team, the Senior Quantity Surveyor (SQS) will provide full commercial support from pre-construction through to final account and project handover.
The role focuses on protecting and enhancing project margin, ensuring commercial compliance, and supporting successful project delivery through effective cost and contract management.
Key Responsibilities
Provide full commercial support across all project phases, from pre-construction to final account
Identify, manage, and mitigate commercial risks
Identify and maximise commercial opportunities to improve project margins
Ensure full compliance with commercial governance and approval processes
Prepare and deliver commercial reports for internal stakeholders and clients
Develop budgets and client proposals, balancing value and profitability
Manage and lead the Quantity Surveying team
Protect and enhance contractual margins throughout project delivery
Lead and manage the final account process
Complete monthly CVRs and review inputs from junior QS staff
Manage subcontractor accounts and commercial performance
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
Degree qualified (BSc or equivalent) in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management
Strong experience administering NEC Engineering & Construction Contracts
Background in civil infrastructure projects, particularly earthworks
Proven track record of improving margin and cash flow during project delivery
Experience managing projects/contracts valued up to £50m
Minimum 10 years’ experience in a senior commercial role
Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and project tools
Experience with COINS or similar project accounting software
Key Skills
Strong commercial acumen and negotiation capability
In-depth knowledge of NEC contracts (formal qualification desirable)
Ability to balance strategic objectives with short-term performance
Excellent relationship management with clients, teams, and suppliers
Strong organisational and administrative skills
Effective problem-solving with the ability to recover challenging commercial positions
Confident presentation and communication skills
Technical Competencies
End-to-end commercial management of construction projects
Contract administration and governance compliance
Strong understanding of construction contracts and legal frameworks
Proven negotiation and contract value optimisation experience
Experience in civil infrastructure project delivery
Ability to manage WIP and understand earned value metrics
Accurate and timely commercial reporting to stakeholders
Leadership & Personal Attributes
Strong leadership, promoting best commercial practices across teams
Collaborative, team-oriented approach across all levels and stakeholders
Proactive and self-motivated problem solver
Client-focused while maintaining commercial objectives
Committed to continuous professional development
Strong relationship-building and networking skills
Ability to inspire and improve team and supplier performance
Summary
This job description provides an overview of the role and its key responsibilities. Duties may vary in line with business needs and project requirements