Quantity Surveyor

Quantity Surveyor / Senior QS Job Type: Freelance (18 months) with potential of a permanent position after that Day Rate: £300–£350 per day (experience‑dependent) Location: Cardiff – site based, 5 days per week Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Quantity Surveyor to join our team on a freelance basis for an initial 18‑month period, with the opportunity to transition into a permanent role depending on performance and business needs. Our organisation delivers the design, specification, and commercial management of mechanical and electrical (M&E) services across a range of commercial, industrial, government, and healthcare projects. With a strong track record for technical excellence and dependable delivery, we require a commercially strong QS to support the financial, contractual, and procurement functions for our site‑based operations in Cardiff. This role is ideal for a QS with substantial experience within M&E contracting or building services who thrives in a site‑focused environment and understands the unique commercial demands of M&E packages. Key Responsibilities Cost & Value Management * Prepare budgets, cost plans, bills of quantities, and valuations for M&E works. * Monitor project expenditure and maintain accurate commercial tracking. * Identify opportunities for value engineering and cost optimisation. * Support monthly commercial reporting and cashflow projections. Contract Administration & Procurement * Prepare, negotiate, and manage subcontractor and supplier contracts. * Run tender processes for M&E subcontract packages and carry out detailed comparisons. * Oversee procurement and ensure compliance with project specifications. * Assess and process variations, compensation events, and contractual notices. Risk & Change Management * Identify commercial risks within M&E projects and assist with mitigation plans. * Prepare, negotiate, and agree change requests or claims. * Provide proactive commercial advice to support site decision‑making. Reporting & Documentation * Produce accurate and detailed financial reports, forecasts, and progress updates. * Maintain comprehensive records of labour, materials, subcontract payments, and costs. * Assist with preparation of final accounts and project close‑out documentation. Client & Stakeholder Engagement * Attend site meetings and represent the commercial function effectively. * Work closely with clients, engineers, subcontractors, and internal project teams. * Resolve commercial issues promptly and professionally. Personal Qualities & Requirements * Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, Engineering, or equivalent. * Strong track record as a Quantity Surveyor within M&E contracting or building services. * Excellent commercial awareness, analytical ability, and attention to detail. * Effective negotiator with strong communication and interpersonal skills. * Competent user of relevant cost management and project software. * Good working knowledge of construction contracts including JCT and/or NEC. * Strong understanding of M&E installations within commercial build environments. Our Culture We pride ourselves on a supportive, collaborative, and professional culture built on: Collaboration & Teamwork - A positive, integrated working style across engineering, commercial, and site delivery teams. Professional Growth - Opportunities to develop skills, gain exposure to diverse projects, and progress within the business. Technical Excellence - Commitment to delivering high‑quality, technically robust M&E solutions. Integrity & Accountability - We value honesty, transparency, and delivering on promises made internally and to clients. Positive Working Environment - A friendly, respectful workplace where people feel appreciated and heard. Working Pattern * Site based in Cardiff – 5 days per week * Freelance for first 18 months * Potential permanent role thereafter * Working hours aligned with typical site operations