Senior Quantity Surveyor​/Cost Manager

Job Description - Senior Quantity Surveyor / Cost Manager

Location:

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Experience:

8 to 12+ years (strong costing background required)

The Senior Quantity Surveyor / Cost Manager will lead pre‑contract and post‑contract commercial activities across building, infrastructure, and mixed‑use development projects. The role requires exceptional costing expertise, strong analytical capability, and the ability to manage clients, consultants, and contractors. The ideal candidate brings deep GCC market knowledge, advanced rate‑build‑up skills, and a proven track record of delivering accurate, defensible cost estimates.

• Prepare detailed cost plans, elemental estimates, and rate build‑ups for buildings, infrastructure, and MEP works.
• Develop pre‑tender estimates, budgetary assessments, and value‑engineering proposals.
• Maintain and update cost databases, benchmark rates, and market intelligence for UAE, KSA, and GCC.
• Review design drawings, specifications, and tender documents to identify cost risks and opportunities.
• Provide commercial advice during concept, schematic, and detailed design stages.

• Lead BOQ preparation in accordance with international and local measurement standards (POMI, CESMM, NRM).
• Conduct detailed quantity take‑offs and verify design quantities prepared by junior QS teams.
• Manage tender processes, including RFIs, addendums, clarifications, and bid evaluations.
• Prepare tender analysis reports, commercial recommendations, and negotiation support.

• Review and certify contractor payment applications, variations, and claims.
• Prepare cost reports, cash‑flow forecasts, and budget tracking dashboards.
• Lead commercial meetings with clients, contractors, and consultants.
• Evaluate change orders, assess entitlement, and prepare commercial justifications.
• Support contract administration, including notices, correspondence, and risk registers.

• Act as the primary commercial point of contact for clients.
• Present cost plans, commercial reports, and value‑engineering options confidently.
• Coordinate with design consultants, project managers, and site teams to ensure commercial alignment.
• Provide strategic commercial advice to support decision‑making.

• Strong expertise in cost estimation, rate analysis, and commercial strategy.
• Excellent understanding of UAE construction market rates, materials, and procurement practices.
• Proficiency in QS software (CostX, Planswift, Candy, Excel‑based cost models).
• Strong command of measurement standards (POMI, CESMM, NRM).
• Ability to lead teams, mentor junior QS staff, and manage multiple projects.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical mindset with high attention to detail and accuracy.

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• 8 to 12+ years of experience
  , with at least 5 years in the UAE or any GCC countries.
• Proven experience in cost planning and commercial management for major building and/or infrastructure projects.