Lead Quantity Surveyor - Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Annual performance bonus

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous leave and flexible working

Professional development opportunities

Involvement in high-impact projects

Collaborative team culture

Access to advanced technology

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Quantity Surveyor to head the cost control for major infrastructure projects in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role requires overseeing a team, managing budgets, and delivering value through rigorous contract administration.

The ideal candidate will bring 8+ years of infrastructure experience, strong negotiation skills, and proficiency with CostX/Buildsoft. This senior position offers leadership in a reputed consultancy with significant regional impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Economics.
• Professional registration with the SACPVP or equivalent.
• Minimum 8 years’ experience in quantity surveying on major infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of contract administration (FIDIC/NEC/JBCC).
• Proficient with cost estimating software and measurement tools (e.g., CostX, Buildsoft).
• Strong analytical, negotiation and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage quantity surveying functions for large infrastructure projects (roads, bridges, water treatment, public buildings).
• Develop cost estimates, BoQ, and tender documentation.
• Administer contracts (FIDIC, NEC, JBCC) ensuring compliance.
• Manage tender evaluations and contractor negotiations.
• Monitor costs, prepare reports, and forecast cash flow.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Contract admin

Team management

Analytical skills

Education

QS degree

SACPVP registration

Tools

CostX

Buildsoft

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished consultancy firm with a strong presence in the infrastructure sector across South Africa, is seeking an experienced Lead Quantity Surveyor to join their esteemed team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior role is critical for managing the cost aspects of major infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and public facilities. You will be responsible for ensuring cost-effectiveness, financial control, and maximizing value for clients throughout the project lifecycle. The ideal candidate will possess a meticulous eye for detail, a comprehensive understanding of contract law, and exceptional negotiation skills. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future infrastructure of the region, working on projects that have a lasting community impact. We are looking for a proactive and strategic professional who can lead a team of quantity surveyors and contribute significantly to the company's ongoing success and reputation for excellence in Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all quantity surveying functions for large-scale infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, water treatment plants, and public buildings.
• Develop accurate cost estimates, bills of quantities (BoQ), and tender documentation.
• Administer various forms of construction contracts (e.g., FIDIC, NEC, JBCC), ensuring client and contractor compliance.
• Manage the tender evaluation and negotiation process, recommending suitable contractors.
• Monitor project costs against budget, prepare financial reports, and manage cash flow forecasting.
• Value variations, interim payments, and final accounts, ensuring fair and equitable assessment.
• Conduct site visits to monitor progress, assess work completed, and identify potential cost overruns or risks.
• Advise clients on cost-saving measures and procurement strategies without compromising quality or safety.
• Mitigate contractual disputes and facilitate their resolution through negotiation and mediation.
• Manage and mentor a team of junior quantity surveyors, providing guidance and professional development.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant South African legislation, industry standards, and company policies.
• Liaise effectively with clients, project managers, engineers, architects, and contractors.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Economics.
• Professional registration with the South African Council for the Property Valuers Profession (SACPVP) or a similar recognized professional body is required.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in quantity surveying, with substantial exposure to major infrastructure projects.
• Thorough knowledge of contract administration, particularly FIDIC, NEC, and JBCC forms of contract.
• Proficiency in cost estimating software, measurement tools, and standard industry software (e.g., CostX, Buildsoft, MS Office Suite).
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and lead a team effectively.
• Understanding of construction methods and materials relevant to infrastructure.
• Experience working within the KwaZulu-Natal construction landscape is an advantage.
• High level of integrity and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflective of your expertise and leadership.
• Annual performance bonus and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous leave allowance and flexible working arrangements.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including training and certifications.
• Involvement in high-impact, challenging infrastructure projects.
• A supportive and collaborative team culture.
• Access to advanced technology and professional development resources.
• Potential for career progression within a reputable consultancy.