Quantity Surveyor (QS) Officer – Pre-Contracts

THE BLUE BARREL PTE. LTD.; Penarth, High Street; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Blue Barrel PTE. LTD. is seeking a Pre-Contracts QS Officer to support tendering and procurement for construction projects.

You will prepare cost estimates, analyse tender documents, and assist in bid preparation, collaborating with Estimating, Design and Business Development teams to ensure competitive pricing before contract award. The role requires a Diploma/Degree in Quantity Surveying or related field, 1–4 years of pre-contract estimating experience, proficiency in Excel and QS

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Quantity Surveying or related field.
• 1–4 years of pre-contract estimating experience in construction.
• Familiarity with standard methods of measurement and contracts is a plus.
• Proficient with QS software (CostX, Buildsoft) and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Study tender documents, drawings, specifications, and BQ.
• Prepare accurate cost estimates and budgets for tenders (materials, labour, plant, subcontractors).
• Take off quantities from drawings using standard methods.
• Source and evaluate quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Prepare tender pricing schedules, cost comparisons, and value engineering proposals.
• Assist in preparing tender submission documents with pricing summaries.
• Liaise with consultants, clients, and subcontractors to clarify tender queries.
• Analyse tenders for compliance and price competitiveness.
• Maintain a cost database and price records for future tenders.
• Support handover of awarded projects to post-contract QS team.
• Keep abreast of market rates, construction methods and material costs.
• Ensure pre-contract documentation complies with procedures and regulations.

Skills

Strong numerical skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Team-oriented

Education

Quantity Surveying/Construction related degree

Tools

CostX

Buildsoft

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Pre-Contracts QS Officer supports the tendering and procurement process by preparing cost estimates, analysing tender documents, and assisting in the preparation of bids for construction projects. This role works closely with the Estimating, Design, and Business Development teams to ensure competitive and accurate pricing prior to contract award.

KeyResponsibilities

• Study and interpret tender documents, drawings, specifications, and bills of quantities (BQ) issued by clients or consultants.
• Prepare accurate cost estimates and budgets for tenders, including materials, labour, plant, and subcontractor costs.
• Take off quantities from drawings and specifications in accordance with standard methods of measurement.
• Source and evaluate quotations from suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing.
• Prepare tender pricing schedules, cost comparisons, and value engineering proposals.
• Assist in preparing tender submission documents, including pricing summaries and supporting schedules.
• Liaise with consultants, clients, and subcontractors to clarify tender queries and requirements.
• Analyse and evaluate subcontractor and supplier tenders for compliance and price competitiveness.
• Maintain a cost database and price records for future tender reference.
• Support the handover of awarded projects to thepost-contract QS team, ensuring smooth transition of cost information.
• Keep abreast of market rates, construction methods, and material costs to ensure accurate pricing.
• Ensure all pre-contract documentation complies with company procedures and relevant regulations.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• 1 to 4 years of relevant experience in a pre-contractor estimating role within the construction industry; entry-level candidates with a strong academic background may be considered.
• Familiarity with standard methods of measurement (e.g.SMM, POMI) and construction contracts (e.g. SIA, PSSCOC, FIDIC) is an advantage.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel; experience with QS or estimating software (e.g. CostX, Buildsoft) is a plus.
• Strong numerical skills with close attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good communication and negotiation skills.
• Able to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple tenders concurrently.
• A team player who is proactive, organised, and able to work independently when required.