Quantity Surveyor (Real Estate)

About This Role

The Quantity Surveyor is responsible for managing all cost and commercial aspects of real estate development projects, ensuring financial efficiency, cost control, and value optimisation throughout the project lifecycle.

The role supports design, procurement, construction, and handover phases by providing accurate cost planning, monitoring budgets, assessing variations, and ensuring that projects are delivered within approved financial parameters.

The role works closely with internal teams, consultants, and contractors to ensure transparent cost management, minimise financial risk, and support successful project delivery.

Responsibilities

Cost Planning and Estimation

• Prepare, manage, and validate project cost plans, budgets, and feasibility estimates at various stages of design and development, all against with the project brief.
• Conduct cost benchmarking and market analysis to ensure competitive and realistic pricing and challenge the Consultant’s cost reports if required with independent cost estimations.
• Review design proposals and provide cost advice to support value engineering and cost optimisation.
• Identify cost risks and opportunities and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Ensure alignment between design development and approved project budgets.
• Prepare cash flow forecasts aligned with funding requirements.

Procurement and Tendering

• Assist in developing procurement strategies and packaging of works.
• Prepare and/ or review tender documentation, including bills of quantities, specifications, contract conditions that will include the Employer’s Requirements.
• Evaluate tender submissions, conduct commercial analysis, and prepare tender evaluation reports.
• Provide recommendations on contractor and supplier selection based on commercial and technical considerations.
• Participate in tender clarifications and negotiations to achieve best value outcomes.

Contract Administration

• Administer contracts in accordance with agreed terms and conditions. This will mean acting as the Developer’s commercial ‘guardian’ throughout the construction.
• Review and certify (or recommend certification of) interim payment applications submitted by contractors and consultants.
• Assess variations, change orders, and claims, ensuring proper justification and alignment with contract provisions.
• Monitor contractual compliance, obligations, and entitlements of all parties.
• Support dispute resolution processes, including preparation of relevant documentation and analysis.
• Monitor cost-to-complete and advise on corrective actions.
• Maintain strict control of:
• Approved budgets
• Forecast final costs (FCC)
• Contingencies and risk Allowances

Cost Control, Claims, and Financial Management

• Monitor project costs against approved budgets and provide regular financial reports.
• Evaluate variations for:
• Contractual entitlement
• Cost impact
• Budget availability
• Track commitments, expenditures, and forecast final project costs.
• Identify deviations from budget and advise on corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate cost records, reports, and financial documentation.
• Work closely with project controls and planning teams to link time and cost impacts.
• Ensure all commercial activities are conducted in line with company policies and financial controls.
• Provide clear cost advice to and report to:
• Development Directors
• Senior Management
• Finance teams

Construction Support and Site Coordination

• Attend site meetings and coordinate with project teams to monitor commercial progress.
• Assess contractor claims for:
• Prolongation costs
• Disruption
• Loss and expenses
• Review contractor progress in relation to cost and valuation.
• Provide commercial input on construction methodologies and sequencing where required.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and consultants to resolve commercial issues.

Handover and Close-Out

• Manage the preparation and agreement of final accounts with contractors and consultants.
• Ensure all financial matters are finalised and documented prior to project close-out.
• Support the preparation of project cost reports and lessons learned for future developments.
• Ensure proper archiving of all commercial documentation in line with company policies.

Experience, Education, and Skills

Experience

• Minimum 7-10 years of experience, including Developer, PMC, or Consultant’s roles in the UAE.
• As a developer’s representative, have a strong independent and assertive mindset.
• Solid understanding of FIDIC-based contracts.
• Strong knowledge of construction management and cost control.
• Strong understanding of local; construction market, contractors, and pricing norms.
• Strong knowledge of cost management principles, procurement processes, and contract administration.
• Demonstrated experience in cost planning, procurement, and contract administration for real estate projects.
• Proven track record in managing project budgets and delivering cost-effective outcomes.
• Experience working on residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
• Familiarity with standard forms of contract and UAE construction practices.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Professional membership (RICS or equivalent) is preferred.

Skills

• Proficiency in preparing bills of quantities, cost plans, and financial reports.
• Excellent numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial management.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and work collaboratively within project teams.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and cost management software.
• Commercially aware, proactive, and results driven.