Pre-Construction Assistant QS: Estimating & PCSA

United Living Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits package

Structured development and career progression opportunities

Supportive team environment

Job summary

United Living Group in Greater London is looking for a proactive Assistant Quantity Surveyor to support their pre-construction team. The ideal candidate will be involved in estimating and managing PCSA projects, with responsibilities ranging from preparing cost estimates to engaging with the supply chain.

This position offers a competitive salary and structured development opportunities within a supportive team environment. Candidates should be keen to grow their career in quantity surveying with an emphasis on pre-construction project delivery.

Qualifications

• Experience in Quantity Surveying or Assistant QS role, ideally within pre-construction or estimating.
• Strong understanding of cost planning, estimating, and procurement processes.
• Good commercial awareness and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets based on Employer’s Requirements.
• Support and take ownership of commercial management on live PCSA projects.
• Engage with the supply chain to obtain competitive pricing.

Skills

Cost planning

Estimating

Procurement

Communication skills

Education

Working towards RICS qualification

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented

Job Description

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Assistant Quantity Surveyor to support our pre-construction team, with a key focus on estimating and managing PCSA (Pre-Construction Services Agreement) projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build their commercial career within a fast-paced environment, gaining exposure to complex schemes while taking ownership of cost planning, procurement support, and day-to-day commercial management during the pre-construction phase.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Cost Planning

• 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
  
  

PCSA Commercial Management

• 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
  
  

Procurement & Supply Chain Engagement

• 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
  
  

CVR & Reporting Support

• 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
  
  

Commercial Controls & Compliance

• 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
  
  

Stakeholder Collaboration

• 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
  
  

About You

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

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Structured development and career progression opportunities
• Exposure to complex, high-value projects
• Supportive team environment with opportunities to grow
  
  

Apply Now

If you’re looking to develop your career in quantity surveying with a focus on estimating and pre-construction project delivery, we’d love to hear from you.