PCSA-Focused Assistant QS: Estimating & Cost Planning

United Infrastructure Ltd; Dartford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Structured development and progression

Exposure to high-value projects

Supportive team environment

Job summary

United Infrastructure Ltd seeks an proactive Assistant Quantity Surveyor to support the pre-construction team with estimating and PCSA cost management. You will assist in cost planning, tender analysis, and procurement, contributing to successful project transitions from pre-construction into delivery.

You will work closely with Pre-Construction Managers and senior QS staff, developing commercial awareness, data integrity, and collaborative stakeholder engagement on high-value infrastructure

Qualifications

• Experience in a Quantity Surveying or Assistant QS role, ideally within pre-construction or estimating.
• Strong cost planning, estimating, and procurement knowledge.
• Familiarity with PCSA projects or early-stage delivery.
• Good commercial awareness and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and collaborative approach.
• Working towards professional qualifications (e.g., RICS).

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets based on Employer’s Requirements, drawings, and specifications
• Support the development and validation of cost plans throughout the PCSA lifecycle
• Analyse supply chain quotations and benchmark pricing to ensure competitiveness
• Assist in identifying risks, opportunities, and value engineering options
• Support and, where appropriate, take ownership of commercial management on live PCSA projects
• Track and report cost movement, changes, and risk allowances throughout pre-construction
• Assist in maintaining accurate financial records, forecasts, and reporting outputs
• Contribute to the successful transition from pre-construction into delivery
• Assist with package scoping, tender enquiries, and evaluation of subcontractor returns
• Engage with the supply chain to obtain competitive and compliant pricing
• Support early contractor involvement and build strong supplier relationships
• Contribute to the Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) process
• Provide accurate and timely data for financial reporting and forecasting
• Assist in highlighting cost risks and supporting mitigation strategies
• Ensure adherence to commercial procedures, governance, and reporting standards
• Maintain structured documentation and cost records in line with company processes
• Support audits and ensure transparency of cost data and decision-making
• Work closely with Pre-Construction Managers, design teams, and senior QS staff
• Support coordination between design, commercial, and operational functions
• Participate in internal and external meetings where required

Skills

Quantity Surveying

Assistant QS

Cost Planning

Estimating

Procurement

PCSA Projects

Commercial Awareness

Communication Skills

RICS in progress

Job description

United Infrastructure Ltd seeks an proactive Assistant Quantity Surveyor to support the pre-construction team with estimating and PCSA cost management. You will assist in cost planning, tender analysis, and procurement, contributing to successful project transitions from pre-construction into delivery.

You will work closely with Pre-Construction Managers and senior QS staff, developing commercial awareness, data integrity, and collaborative stakeholder engagement on high-value infrastructure