Sr. Quantity Surveyor (Estimation)

The Senior Quantity Surveyor / Estimator plays a critical role in both pre‑contract and post‑contract phases of construction projects. With over 10 years of extensive experience in the contracting industry, the ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to manage cost, estimation, and commercial functions with precision. This hybrid role ensures accurate tender submissions, effective cost control, and maximized project profitability while maintaining compliance with contractual and company standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Pre‑Contract (Estimation) Responsibilities

Tender Review & Analysis

  • Review tender documents, drawings, specifications, and BOQs to fully understand project scope.

  • Conduct site visits and attend pre‑bid meetings to gather essential project information.

  • Identify commercial risks, opportunities, and cost drivers within the tender package.

  • Coordinate with engineering, planning, procurement, and project teams to ensure accurate bid preparation.

Cost Estimation & BOQ Preparation

  • Prepare detailed cost estimates for civil, infrastructure, MEP, or building projects (based on company specialization).

  • Develop and update BOQs using drawings, specifications, and industry standards.

  • Analyze labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs to ensure competitive pricing.

  • Utilize historical data and market intelligence to validate cost assumptions.

Subcontractor & Supplier Coordination

  • Prepare RFQs and obtain competitive quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.

  • Evaluate technical and commercial compliance of received quotations.

  • Negotiate pricing and terms to achieve optimal cost outcomes.

  • Maintain an updated database of suppliers, subcontractors, and market rates.

Tender Submission & Documentation

  • Prepare complete tender submissions including pricing schedules, clarifications, and commercial proposals.

  • Ensure compliance with client requirements and submission deadlines.

  • Support post‑tender clarifications, negotiations, and value engineering proposals.

2. Post‑Contract (Quantity Surveying) Responsibilities

Cost Management & Budget Control

  • Prepare and manage project budgets, cost plans, and cost‑to‑complete forecasts.

  • Monitor project expenditures, material usage, and subcontractor performance.

  • Prepare monthly cost reports, cash flow projections, and financial summaries.

  • Identify cost variances and recommend corrective actions.

Measurement & Valuation

  • Conduct detailed measurements from drawings and site progress.

  • Prepare and submit interim payment applications to clients.

  • Review and certify subcontractor payment applications and invoices.

  • Maintain accurate measurement records and quantity logs.

Variations, Claims & Change Management

  • Identify variations and prepare comprehensive variation orders with supporting documentation.

  • Evaluate and negotiate subcontractor claims and change requests.

  • Prepare Extension of Time (EOT) claims in coordination with planning and project teams.

  • Ensure all changes are properly documented and approved.

Contract Administration

  • Ensure compliance with contractual terms, conditions, and obligations.

  • Maintain organized contract documentation and commercial records.

  • Support dispute resolution processes by preparing evidence and contractual interpretations.

  • Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams on commercial matters.

3. Leadership & Coordination

  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior QS and estimation staff.

  • Coordinate with project managers, engineers, planners, and finance teams to ensure accurate cost control.

  • Participate in project review meetings and present commercial updates to senior management.

  • Contribute to continuous improvement of QS and estimation processes, templates, and cost databases.

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or related field.

  • Professional certifications such as RICS, MRICS, or FIDIC training are highly preferred.

Experience

  • Minimum 10 years of experience in a contracting company, with strong exposure to both estimation and QS functions.

  • Proven track record preparing estimates and managing commercial aspects of medium to large-scale projects.

  • Strong understanding of construction methodologies, project execution, and commercial frameworks.

  • Experience in UAE/GCC contracting industry is a strong advantage.

Skills & Competencies

  • Advanced knowledge of cost estimation, measurement, and contract administration.

  • Strong analytical and numerical skills with high attention to detail.

  • Proficiency in estimation and QS software (e.g., Candy/CCS, CostX, Planswift) and MS Office.

  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

  • Ability to interpret complex drawings, specifications, and contractual documents.

  • Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.

  • Ability to work under pressure and meet strict tender and project deadlines.

  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and commercial awareness.

Nova International General Contracting is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, experience, and business requirements, without unlawful discrimination, and in accordance with applicable UAE labor and employment laws. All hiring and employment is subject to compliance with UAE regulatory requirements, including those relating to work permits and residency visas, where applicable.