Senior QS/Assist QS Manager (Building& Construction)

THE BLUE BARREL PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A major construction firm in Singapore is seeking a QS Manager to lead the full spectrum of quantity surveying functions across major projects. The role includes responsibilities in tender preparation, cost estimation, and project cost control, ensuring compliance and profitability. Ideal candidates will have at least 10 years of relevant experience, with strong leadership and negotiation skills, and a Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying or related fields. This position offers an opportunity to manage and guide a team in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in construction.
• At least 5 years in a managerial role with a main contractor.
• Proven experience in tendering and estimating for large-scale projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate tender preparation for projects.
• Administer contracts, manage variation orders, and claims.
• Supervise a team of Quantity Surveyors and Assistant QS staff.

Skills

Construction cost structures

Procurement strategies

Contract law

Leadership

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Excellent communication

Attention to detail

Commercial acumen

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or Civil Engineering

Job description

The QS Manager leads the full spectrum of pre- and post-contract quantity surveying and commercial management functions across major construction and infrastructure projects. This role is responsible for tender preparation, cost estimation, contract administration, and project cost control, ensuring accuracy, profitability, and compliance with company standards.

Tendering & Pre-Contract Management

• Lead and coordinate tender preparation for public and private sector projects
• Analyze tender documents, specifications, drawings, and contractual terms to identify cost and risk implications
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, bills of quantities (BQ), and value engineering proposals
• Liaise with the Planning, Engineering, and Procurement teams to develop accurate and competitive tender submissions
• Conduct subcontractor/supplier sourcing and quotation analysis to ensure optimal pricing
• Present tender cost summaries and recommendations to management for approval
• Support design-and-build tenders by providing technical input and cost planning expertise

Post-Contract & Project Commercial Management

• Administer main contracts and subcontracts, ensuring compliance with contractual terms
• Manage variation orders (VOs), claims, EOT submissions, and final account closures
• Oversee monthly progress claims and certifications to ensure accurate revenue recognition
• Lead cost control, cash flow forecasting, and budget tracking throughout project execution
• Support dispute resolution, mediation, and negotiation with clients or subcontractors as required

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise a team of Quantity Surveyors and Assistant QS staff across multiple projects
• Provide coaching and training to ensure team members meet project and tender deliverables
• Coordinate with project teams to align commercial strategies with operational goals

Stakeholder & Client Relations

• Liaise with clients, consultants, and government authorities on commercial matters
• Represent company in pre-tender meetings, cost negotiations, and commercial reviews
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors and suppliers

Compliance, Systems & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with company policies, BCA regulations, and ISO procedures
• Maintain comprehensive cost and contract documentation for audit readiness
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in cost management and tender processes

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or Civil Engineering

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in a managerial role with a main contractor
• Proven experience in tendering and estimating for large-scale civil engineering or building projects
• Solid knowledge of SIA, FIDIC, and PSSCOC forms of contract
• Hands-on experience with cost planning, subcontract management, and final account preparation

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent understanding of construction cost structures, procurement strategies, and contract law
• Strong leadership, analytical, and negotiation skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and commercial acumen