Assistant Quantity Surveyor

ARC Group; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A construction company in Cambridge is seeking an Assistant Quantity Surveyor to support financial management and control of projects across various sectors. The role involves preparing cost plans, managing subcontractor accounts, and assisting with valuations. A degree or HNC in Quantity Surveying is required, along with strong numerical and analytical skills. This is a permanent opportunity ideal for someone looking to grow their career in a structured contractor environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a Quantity Surveying or Assistant QS role in a commercial construction environment.
• Understanding of commercial construction processes and cost control.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of cost plans and budgets.
• Support procurement of subcontract packages.
• Help prepare subcontract orders and manage accounts.
• Monitor project costs and manage change control.

Skills

Numerical skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Microsoft Excel

Education

Degree, HNC or HND in Quantity Surveying or related discipline

Job description

Job Title: Assistant Quantity Surveyor

Sector: Commercial Construction

Employment Type: Permanent

Reporting to: Senior Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager

Overview

We are seeking an ambitious Assistant Quantity Surveyor to join a well-established commercial construction main contractor delivering projects across sectors including office, retail, industrial, education, and healthcare. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their commercial career within a structured main contractor environment. You will work closely with the commercial and site teams to support the financial management and control of projects from pre‑construction through to final account.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial Support

• Assist in the preparation of cost plans, budgets and tender analysis.
• Support the procurement of subcontract packages, including preparing enquiries and analysing returns.
• Help prepare subcontract orders and contract documentation.
• Assist in the management of subcontractor accounts, including valuations and payments.

Cost Control & Reporting

• Support the preparation of monthly valuations and applications for payment.
• Assist with cost value reconciliation (CVR) and financial reporting.
• Monitor project costs and identify potential risks or variations.
• Help manage change control processes and variation assessments.

Contract Administration

• Maintain accurate records of site instructions, variations and correspondence.
• Assist in the preparation and agreement of interim and final accounts.
• Ensure compliance with contract terms (e.g. JCT/Design & Build contracts).

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with Site Managers and Project Managers to monitor progress and commercial performance.
• Attend site meetings and contribute to commercial updates.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers.

Essential Requirements

• Previous experience in a Quantity Surveying or Assistant QS role within a commercial construction main contractor environment (or relevant placement experience).
• Good understanding of commercial construction processes and cost control.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Office applications.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.

Qualifications

• Degree, HNC or HND in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or related discipline (or currently working towards).

To be considered for this position please apply with your CV or for further information contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office.