Quantity Surveyor Jobs in London EC2: Competitive Pay & Flexible Roles
Temporary Staff Agency is urgently recruiting experienced Quantity Surveyors for top-tier construction and infrastructure projects in the heart of London's EC2 postcode. Secure an immediate temporary position with a clear pathway to permanent employment for the right candidate.
Your Recruitment Journey
Watch our guide on temp-to-perm roles in construction.
Quantity Surveyor Job Description: London EC2
Our client, a leading main contractor specializing in high-value commercial and infrastructure projects within the City of London, requires an experienced Quantity Surveyor to join their dynamic team on an urgent basis. This role, based in the EC2 district, is central to managing the financial and contractual aspects of a major £80m+ mixed-use development, ensuring cost control, accurate valuation, and robust commercial management from pre-construction to final account.
By applying through Temporary Staff Agency, you gain direct access to this exclusive opportunity alongside the support of a dedicated consultant who understands the nuances of construction recruitment in London. We streamline the process, handling payroll, contracts, and liaison, allowing you to focus on delivering exceptional work with the potential for this temporary assignment to convert into a permanent, senior position within a respected firm. For more insights into navigating temporary work, explore our comprehensive resource, The Ultimate Guide To Temp Work Staffing.
Core Responsibilities & Duties
- Prepare accurate monthly cost value reconciliations (CVRs), cost reports, and cash flow forecasts for the project, presenting findings to senior management and the client.
- Manage subcontractor accounts from procurement, through interim valuation and payment, to final account agreement, ensuring robust commercial control.
- Identify, track, and manage cost variances and potential risks, implementing corrective actions to keep the project within budget.
- Administer the main contract, including preparing and submitting interim applications for payment, valuing variations, and managing contractual correspondence.
- Lead the procurement process for specialist subcontract packages, preparing tender documentation, conducting comparative analysis, and making recommendations for award.
- Draft, negotiate, and execute subcontract agreements, ensuring terms are back-to-back with the main contract and protect the company's commercial position.
- Chair regular subcontractor commercial meetings, resolving queries, assessing claims for extensions of time and additional money, and maintaining positive working relationships.
- Oversee the site measurement and verification of subcontractor works, authorizing interim payments in line with agreed schedules and project progress.
- Maintain meticulous records of all commercial documentation, including correspondence, instructions, programmes, and meeting minutes, to support potential claims or dispute resolution.
- Work closely with the project planner to assess the impact of delays and changes, preparing robust notifications and claims for time and money as per the contract.
- Provide commercial advice and support to the project delivery team, ensuring they understand the contractual and financial implications of their decisions.
- Prepare the final account for the project, negotiating and agreeing the final contract sum with the client's representative.
Essential Candidate Requirements
- Professional Qualification: MRICS, FRICS, or equivalent degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management.
- Proven Experience: Minimum 5-7 years' post-qualification experience as a QS on UK construction projects exceeding £20m in value.
- Contract Knowledge: Expert working knowledge of JCT and NEC forms of contract, with a strong track record in change management and final account negotiation.
- Technical Skills: High proficiency in MS Excel and industry-standard cost management software (e.g., CostX, CATO). Excellent communication and presentation skills are essential.
Salary & Benefits Package
- Competitive Hourly Rate: £35 - £55 per hour (LTD/Umbrella), commensurate with experience and project scale. Paid weekly without delay.
- Temp-to-Perm Pathway: This role is offered as a temporary assignment with a clear and agreed view to converting to a permanent salaried position (c. £75,000 - £90,000 + package) for strong performers.
- Career Development: Work on a flagship London project that will significantly enhance your CV. Access to further professional development opportunities through our agency network.
- Agency Support: Full payroll administration, dedicated consultant support, and guidance on IR35 compliance. We handle the admin so you can focus on the project.
How to Apply for This Quantity Surveyor Role
The application process through Temporary Staff Agency is designed for speed and efficiency, recognizing the urgent need for this position.
Submit Your CV
Email your updated CV and a brief cover note outlining your relevant experience on major projects.
Screening Interview
Your dedicated consultant will contact you for a detailed telephone interview to discuss your suitability.
Client Submission & Start
We present your profile to the client. Upon successful interview, we manage all onboarding for an immediate start.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected]
Email Your Application Now →Why Register with Temporary Staff Agency?
As London's trusted partner for construction and commercial recruitment, we connect elite professionals with the capital's most demanding projects. Our deep understanding of the EC2 market sets us apart.
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Exclusive Access: We work with main contractors and consultancies who trust us to fill their most critical roles first.
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Career Guidance: Your consultant provides market advice, IR35 guidance, and negotiation support on rates and contracts.
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Streamlined Process: Fast-track registration, weekly payroll, and a single point of contact for all queries. Learn more about our efficient model in our guide on Temporary Staffing Solutions.
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Permanent Pathway: We specialize in temp-to-perm placements, offering a low-risk route to securing a permanent role with a top employer.
Other Urgent Construction & Commercial Roles
We are also urgently recruiting for these positions across London. Explore our full list of immediate start roles.
Need to Speak to Someone Now?
For immediate queries regarding this Quantity Surveyor role or your registration, contact our Construction Desk directly.
Quote reference: QS_EC2_IMMED when you make contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I start this Quantity Surveyor role?
The client requires an immediate start. For candidates who are available immediately and have their documentation (right-to-work, qualifications) ready, the process from initial application to site induction can be completed within 3-5 working days. We expedite all checks and onboarding.
Is this role inside or outside IR35?
The initial assessment by our compliance team indicates this role is likely to be outside IR35, based on the client's working practices (direction, control, substitution). You would typically operate via your own limited company or an umbrella company. We provide a detailed status determination statement and guidance.
What is the likelihood of this temp role becoming permanent?
Very high. This is a genuine temp-to-perm assignment. The client's long-term need for a senior Quantity Surveyor is clear, and they are using the temporary period to ensure a perfect cultural and professional fit. Strong performance during the initial 6-month contract will almost certainly lead to a permanent offer.
Do I need specific experience with a certain type of project?
While experience in large commercial or mixed-use developments is highly advantageous, the client's primary focus is on strong core QS skills: cost management, subcontract administration, and a solid grasp of JCT/NEC contracts. Experience on projects valued over £20m within the UK is the key requirement.
What support does Temporary Staff Agency provide during the assignment?
You will have a dedicated Construction Consultant as your single point of contact. We manage all timesheet approvals, weekly payroll, and act as an intermediary for any contractual or payment queries. We also provide ongoing market rate advice and will proactively manage the transition to a permanent contract if applicable.
Are there opportunities for similar roles in other sectors?
Absolutely. While we are recruiting heavily for construction professionals, Temporary Staff Agency also places talent across numerous sectors. For instance, we frequently recruit Office Managers for corporate hubs, Pharmacy Assistants / Technicians for healthcare providers, and Sales Assistants for retail and B2B clients. Explore our Find Staff portal for a broader view.
Your Next Career Move Starts Here
Don't let this urgent opportunity for a Quantity Surveyor in London EC2 pass you by. Apply today and let Temporary Staff Agency manage your journey to a rewarding role on a landmark project.
Final Reminder: If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected]
Temporary Staff Agency
A premier recruitment and temporary staffing agency specialising in the swift placement of highly skilled professionals across construction, commercial, healthcare, and industrial sectors.
Our London EC2 desk focuses on serving the unique demands of the City's fast-paced project environment. Learn more about our ethos on our About Us page.
Contact Details
Temporary Staff Agency is an equal opportunities employer and recruitment agency. Registered in England & Wales. All vacancies are conducted on behalf of our client companies. © 2024 Temporary Staff Agency.
The London EC2 Construction Landscape: Your Professional Arena
Operating as a Quantity Surveyor within the EC2 postcode places you at the epicentre of UK construction finance and innovation. This square mile is not just a geographic location; it's a ecosystem defined by high-stakes projects, stringent regulations, and a premium on precision. The environment demands professionals who can navigate the complexities of basement excavations adjacent to protected assets, lateral façade replacements on live commercial buildings, and the logistical nightmares of material delivery in congestion-charged zones with limited holding areas.
Projects here are often fast-track, with client demands driven by tight investment schedules and premium rental incomes. This translates to a commercial pressure cooker where robust cost forecasting and proactive risk management are not just valued—they are vital. Your ability to swiftly quantify the impact of a discovered utility diversion or a change in cladding specification can be the difference between project profitability and a financial write-down. The EC2 market has a distinct rhythm, and agencies like Temporary Staff Agency specialize in preparing candidates for its unique tempo.
Case Study: From Temporary QS to Commercial Lead
How a Temporary Staff Agency placement led to a permanent leadership role on a £120m EC2 office development.
The Challenge: Our client, a tier-one contractor, faced a critical gap in their commercial team six months into a major office development. The incumbent Senior QS left unexpectedly, leaving cost reporting lagging and subcontractor payments in disarray. They needed an immediate, high-calibre interim who could not only stabilize the situation but also possess the strategic acumen to see the project through to final account.
Our Action: Temporary Staff Agency’s construction desk identified a candidate, Michael, who was finishing a project in Canary Wharf. While his CV showed strong NEC4 experience, our consultant recognized his untapped potential for leadership. We prepared a tailored submission, highlighting his experience in dispute avoidance and his track record of improving margin on similar complex city projects.
The Outcome: Michael started within 72 hours. Within his first month, he reconciled three months of backlogged CVRs, re-negotiated two problematic subcontracts, and implemented a new cost tracking dashboard. His performance during the temporary period was so transformative that the client initiated permanent conversion discussions after just four months. He is now the Commercial Manager for the contractor’s entire London Central region.
The Lesson: A temp-to-perm role is a two-way assessment. It allows you to demonstrate impact in a real-world, high-pressure environment, often leading to opportunities more senior than those advertised in the traditional permanent market.
Key Takeaways for Candidates
- Immediate starts can be a platform for rapid career advancement, not just a stop-gap.
- Agencies with deep client relationships can position you for"unadvertised" permanent promotions.
- Document your impact from day one. Quantifiable results are your strongest argument for conversion.
Navigating IR35 & Maximising Your Contractual Position
Beyond the Determination: Practical Tips
An "outside IR35" determination is only the first step. To safeguard this status and operate efficiently:
- Maintain a Robust Substitute Clause: Have a formal, practical arrangement ready. Network with other QSs who could cover your duties if needed, and document this in your contract.
- Invest in Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII): This is a clear marker of a genuine business. A minimum of £1 million cover is standard for a QS operating in EC2.
- Use a Distinct Business Entity: Operate through a dedicated limited company or a reputable umbrella that understands construction. Mixing personal and business finances undermines your status.
- Control Your Methods: While you must deliver outcomes, you should have autonomy over how you achieve them—be it the software used for measurement or the format of your reports.
Negotiating Your Temporary Contract
The initial agency contract sets the tone. Key clauses to scrutinise with your consultant:
- Notice Periods: Opt for shorter, mutual notice periods (e.g., one week). This provides flexibility if the role isn't as described or a better opportunity arises.
- Payment Terms: Ensure they are explicitly stated."Payment within 7 days of receiving a signed timesheet" is the industry benchmark for professionals.
- Confidentiality & Restraint: Be wary of overly broad restraint clauses that could prevent you from working elsewhere in EC2 after the assignment. These should be reasonable in scope and duration.
- Conversion Fee: Understand any terms regarding a temp-to-perm conversion. Reputable agencies have transparent, fair fees paid by the client, not deducted from you.
Your Temporary Staff Agency consultant is your advocate in these negotiations, ensuring the terms are professional and protect your interests.
Beyond Traditional Construction: Transferable Skills in High Demand
The core competencies of a seasoned Quantity Surveyor—financial modelling, risk analysis, contract law, and stakeholder management—are increasingly sought after in adjacent high-growth sectors. While the EC2 construction role is the immediate priority, understanding this breadth can future-proof your career.
Renewable Energy & Infrastructure
Major offshore wind, solar, and grid reinforcement projects require QSs to manage complex supply chains, novel technologies, and government-backed contract models. Your experience with NEC is directly applicable here.
Healthcare & Life Sciences
The rollout of new hospital wings, diagnostic centres, and biotech labs demands QSs who understand stringent regulatory environments, specialist equipment procurement, and fast-track, phased handovers.
Data Centres & Tech Infrastructure
This is one of the most active, high-budget sectors. QSs are needed to cost-manage projects where the MEP services can constitute over 70% of the build cost, requiring deep collaboration with specialist designers.
Temporary Staff Agency actively places professionals in these evolving sectors. A successful temporary assignment in core construction can be a powerful springboard to these specialised, often higher-margin, fields. We encourage candidates to discuss long-term career mapping with their consultant.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
This detailed overview underscores the depth of opportunity and support available. The role in EC2 is more than a job; it's a strategic career move facilitated by experts who understand the market's intricacies.
Pro Tip: When submitting your application, briefly highlight one specific achievement from a past project that demonstrates your ability to manage cost under pressure or navigate a complex contractual change. This immediately focuses the conversation on your value.