Quantity Surveyor (Pre Construction)

Watkin Jones PLC; Chester; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonus

Health plan

Life insurance

Company car/allowance

Pension scheme

Discounts

Job summary

Watkin Jones PLC is seeking a Quantity Surveyor specialising in Pre Construction to join our Commercial team in the UK. You will help manage budgets, cost plans and commercial risk across a diverse portfolio of projects, from pre-construction through to completion, working with the Commercial Manager and project teams.

You will review drawings and specifications, ensure compliance with contracts and procedures, and provide cost advice to maximise value and project profitability while maintaining

Qualifications

• Commercially aware estimator with a strong understanding of the full estimating lifecycle.
• Confident interpreting drawings and specifications, and applying current regulations and standards.
• Organised, analytical, capable of managing multiple priorities with accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and manage project budgets and cost plans.
• Monitor costs and financial performance across projects.
• Assess subcontractor applications, valuations and forecasts.
• Review drawings, specs and contracts to identify risks and opportunities.
• Provide commercially sound advice to project teams to maximise value and drive profitability.

Skills

Estimating lifecycle

Cost estimation

Drawing interpretation

Regulatory awareness

Project prioritization

Job description

Watkin Jones is seeking a Quantity Surveyor specialising in Pre Construction work to join our Commercial team.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a dynamic department, working on a diverse portfolio of projects that vary in both scale and complexity. With a strong pipeline of secured and upcoming work, you will play a key role in supporting the successful commercial delivery of projects from pre-construction through to completion.

Working closely with the Commercial Manager and wider project teams, you will be responsible for managing the financial and contractual aspects of projects, ensuring commercial objectives are achieved while maintaining strong client and stakeholder relationships. You will be involved in all stages of the project lifecycle, from initial cost planning and procurement through to valuation, cost control, and final account agreement.

The role will require you to prepare and manage project budgets, monitor costs and financial performance, assess subcontractor applications, and produce accurate valuations and forecasts. You will also review drawings, specifications, and contract documentation to identify commercial risks and opportunities, ensuring compliance with contractual requirements and company procedures.

As a Quantity Surveyor, you will provide commercially sound advice and support to project teams, helping to maximise value, control costs, and drive project profitability while maintaining quality standards and programme objectives. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the continued success and growth of the business, working on a range of exciting and rewarding projects within a collaborative and supportive environment.

About you:

You are a commercially aware and detail‑focused estimator with a strong understanding of construction methods and the full estimating lifecycle. You are confident interpreting drawings and specifications, comfortable working with current regulations and standards, and able to produce accurate, well‑structured estimates supported by clear assumptions and risk awareness. You are organised, analytical, and capable of managing multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

• Professional Growth:Individual support for your career advancement.
• Rewards:Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
• Work-Life Balance:25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), flexible working from home, and discounted gym memberships.
• Benefits:Company car or allowance, exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?

Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management.

Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to grow your career in a fast-paced, innovative environment. If you’re ready to make a significant impact and advance your career with a market leader, we’d love to hear from you!

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