Quantity Surveyor (Pre Construction)

Watkin Jones PLC; Chester; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary annual bonus

Health cash plan

Life insurance

Flexible working from home

25 days annual leave

Company car or allowance

Exclusive discounts

Contributory pension scheme

Job summary

Watkin Jones is seeking a Quantity Surveyor specialising in Pre Construction to join our Commercial team. You will manage budgets, costs, and valuations, supporting pre-construction through to completion.

You will review drawings and contract documents to identify risks, maximise value, and drive project profitability; collaborate with project teams to ensure commercial objectives are met.

Qualifications

• Commercially aware QS with full estimating lifecycle experience.
• Able to interpret drawings and specifications accurately.
• Organised, analytical and able to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and manage project budgets and forecasts.
• Monitor costs, assess subcontractor applications and valuations.
• Review drawings/specifications to identify risks and opportunities.
• Provide commercial advice to project teams to maximise value and profitability.

Skills

Estimating lifecycle

Cost planning

Interpret drawings

Commercial awareness

Analytical mindset

Budget management

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying

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.

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