Freelance Quantity Surveyor

My client is seeking an experienced Freelance Quantity Surveyor to support the Project Director in the delivery of a £20m Industrial project. The role will focus on effective cost control, procurement, and commercial management across all stages of the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial & Cost Management

Prepare and manage project budgets, cost plans, and financial forecasts

Produce detailed cost reports with variance analysis

Manage cash flow forecasting and Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR)

Monitor and control project expenditure against approved budgets

Procurement

Lead procurement of subcontract packages from pre-tender through to award

Prepare tender documentation, pricing schedules, and scopes of work

Analyse tender returns and provide commercial recommendations

Negotiate with subcontractors and suppliers to secure best value

Ensure procurement aligns with overall project strategy and programme

Contract Administration (JCT)

Administer contracts under JCT forms (Design & Build, SBC, etc.)

Manage variations, instructions, and change control procedures

Prepare and assess interim valuations and final accounts

Handle payment applications, notices, and certifications

Support dispute avoidance and resolution in accordance with contract terms

Risk & Value Management

Identify, manage, and mitigate commercial risks and opportunities

Contribute to value engineering and cost optimisation initiatives

Monitor contractual compliance and escalate risks early

Required Experience

Minimum 10 years’ experience as a Quantity Surveyor

Strong knowledge and experience with JCT contract suites

Proven track record in subcontract procurement

Experience delivering medium to large-scale construction projects (similar complexity preferred)

Demonstrable experience in cost control, reporting, and commercial management

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

Strong understanding of construction cost planning and control

Expertise in procurement strategies and contract administration

Advanced numerical and analytical skills

Proficient in Excel and cost management systems/tools

Commercial Skills

Excellent negotiation and influencing abilities

Strong understanding of market rates and subcontractor pricing

Ability to identify risks and implement mitigation strategies

Communication

Clear and confident reporting to senior stakeholders

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Effective stakeholder management at all levels

Organisation & Delivery

Able to manage multiple work packages simultaneously

Detail-oriented with a deadline-driven approach

Proactive, solution-focused mindset

Qualifications

Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, or equivalent (preferred but not essential)

Personal Attributes

Commercially astute and detail-oriented

Takes ownership and accountability

Collaborative team player with leadership potential

Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment

High ethical and professional standards

Reporting Line

Reports to: Project Director

Interfaces with: Project Manager, Project Team, External Consultants