Year Out Quantity Surveyor

Tilbury Douglas; Exeter; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company is seeking a Graduate Quantity Surveyor for a Year Out Placement in Exeter. In this role, you will develop essential skills in cost management and project delivery while being supported by experienced professionals. Ideal candidates are pursuing a degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management, with a strong problem-solving mindset and good communication skills. This opportunity also includes mentoring, a competitive salary, and the chance to work on various meaningful projects.

Benefits

Mentoring from experienced construction professionals

Competitive salary

Two days volunteering opportunities per year

Opportunities to work on diverse projects

Inclusive culture where contributions matter

Qualifications

• Passionate about making a difference through construction and built environment.
• A full UK driving licence (or working towards it).
• Previous placement or site experience (desirable but not essential).

Responsibilities

• Contribute to cost estimates, budgets and tender submissions.
• Support the procurement of subcontractors and suppliers.
• Support tracking and monitor project costs.
• Help assess and manage risks and opportunities.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Written and verbal communication

Collaborative mindset

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management (2:1 or above expected in 2027)

Job description

Overview

Start your career where it matters most – building a better future together

Tilbury Douglas is a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out company. We deliver vital projects across a range of sectors including health, education, water, defence, justice and civic and civil estate. Our schemes improve lives and strengthen communities. As a Graduate Quantity Surveyor - Year Out Placement, you’ll play a key role in making sure those projects deliver real value - on time, on budget, and to the highest standard.

Location

This role will be based in the South West region, where you’ll work within our Infrastructure and South West Water team. Flexibility to travel across sites in the region will be required as part of your development.

What you’ll be doing

As a Graduate Quantity Surveyor - Year Out Placement you’ll develop your skills and gain the experience you need to progress towards your final year of study.

No two days are the same and with the support of experienced colleagues, you’ll:

• Contribute to cost estimates, budgets and tender submissions that shape project delivery
• Support the procurement of subcontractors and suppliers, learning how to get the best value
• Support tracking and monitor project costs, valuations and payments to keep everything running smoothly
• Help assess and manage risks, opportunities and variations, gaining real commercial awareness
• Produce clear reports and documentation to support client and project team decisions
• Start to build strong working relationships with clients, consultants and subcontractors
• Develop your skills in industry-standard systems and digital tools for commercial management

Why this role?

This isn’t just about numbers - it’s about impact. You’ll be supported to develop the technical, commercial and people skills to become a trusted professional. With mentoring and support you’ll gain valuable skills and experience to support you in your final year of study.

What we’re looking for

We want to hear from people who are passionate about making a difference through construction and built environment. You’ll bring:

• Working towards completion of your degree (or expected in 2027) in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management (2:1 or above)
• A full UK driving licence (or working towards by the time you start)
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a practical and logical approach
• Good written and verbal communication, able to engage with a wide range of people
• A collaborative mindset, with the enthusiasm to learn and take on responsibility
• Previous placement or site experience (desirable but not essential)

What we can offer you

• Mentoring and guidance from experienced construction professionals to advance you in your final year of study
• Competitive salary
• Two days volunteering opportunities per year
• Opportunities to work on diverse and meaningful projects across the UK
• An inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions make a real difference

Recruitment Timeline

• Stage 1 – Online Applications:
  You can apply up until 28 November 2025. We recommend getting your application in early!
• Stage 2 – Shortlisting:
  We’ll review all applications during December 2025 and get in touch to invite successful candidates to interview.
• Stage 3 – Interviews:
  Interviews will take place during the week commencing 5 January 2026. We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare in advance.
• Stage 4 – Offers:
  Offers will be made in February 2026. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process so you know what to expect.

Why Tilbury Douglas?

We’re more than just a construction company; we’re a community of people working together to deliver projects that matter. We value diversity, innovation and wellbeing and we’re committed to helping you reach your full potential.

Our values form a core part of our company and our mission to build a better future together. They underpin everything we do and set out what is expected from all of us:

• Everyone has a voice
• Do the right thing
• Take pride in what you do
• Bring better to life

Join us and take your first step towards an exciting career in quantity surveying.