Develop your career in Highways Commercial Management!
We are looking to recruit 2 Highway Quantity Surveyor Apprentices to join our Highways Service, starting in September 2026.
This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands‑on experience supporting the delivery of highways construction and maintenance schemes, while studying towards a Construction Quantity Surveyor (Degree) Apprenticeship (Level 6).
You will be part of a forward‑thinking Highways Service delivering a significant capital and maintenance programme across Derbyshire, with a strong focus on value for money, commercial governance, and sustainable service delivery.
Why Join Derbyshire Highways?
Our Highways Service operates within a complex and high‑profile environment, managing:
- Significant capital investment and maintenance programmes
- Increasing expectations on financial governance and value for money
- A need to strengthen in‑house commercial capability
- Reduced reliance on external consultancy support
This apprenticeship is part of our “grow your own” strategy, developing the next generation of commercial professionals within Highways and creating a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.
What you’ll be doing
Working alongside experienced Quantity Surveyors and contract management professionals, you will support the commercial and contractual management of highways works.
Your role will include:
- Supporting cost planning, estimating and financial management of highway schemes
- Assisting with contract administration (including NEC contracts)
- Contributing to procurement activity, tender evaluation and commercial input
- Supporting valuations, variations and compensation event processes
- Assisting with cost reporting, forecasting and financial control
- Monitoring contractor performance and supporting value for money assessments
- Maintaining accurate commercial records and audit trails
- Supporting risk management and commercial decision‑making
- Participating in site visits and developing health and safety awareness
You will also contribute to wider service improvement activity, developing an understanding of how commercial management supports effective project delivery.
Your learning & Development
You will undertake a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship (Construction Quantity Surveyor) through an approved training provider, combining:
- Structured academic learning (lectures, seminars, tutorials, site visits and visits to companies)
- You will be assessed through computer workshops, surveying field work, group work and individual assignments and examinations.
- Work‑based experience on live Highways projects
- Supported development of professional knowledge, skills and behaviours
You will be expected to actively apply your learning in the workplace and progressively take on more responsibility as your experience develops.
About you
We are looking for motivated individuals who are keen to build a career in commercial management within a Highways environment.
Essential requirements
- Eligible for entry onto a Level 6 Quantity Surveying Degree Apprenticeship (e.g. A-levels or equivalent)
- Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and respond positively to feedback
- Good communication skills and ability to build working relationships
- Willingness to learn and commitment to professional development
Desirable
- Experience or interest in construction, engineering, highways or property
- Awareness of construction contracts (e.g. NEC)
- Understanding of basic financial or cost management principles
What we offer you
- A structured development pathway into a professional Quantity Surveyor role
- Full support to complete your Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Opportunity to work on real, high‑impact infrastructure projects
- Access to experienced mentors and professional networks
- A clear career pathway within Derbyshire Highways
Working for Derbyshire County Council
At Derbyshire County Council, we are committed to:
- Equality, fairness and opportunity
- Supporting your wellbeing and development
- Delivering services that provide value for money for our communities
- Reducing our environmental impact and supporting climate resilience
