Principal Quantity Surveyor​/Estimating Lead

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Working in partnership with our delivery partners, you will manage the estimating function of one of the Uks most complex and high-profile Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) programmes, directly contributing its successful delivery

Managing the estimating function across all phases, you role will include ensuring the development of accurate, competitive, and compliant cost estimates that support procurement, delivery, and client reporting. Your remit will include:

• Prepare detailed cost estimates from early feasibility through to final business case submission.
• Analyse drawings, specifications, and scope documents to ensure comprehensive coverage.
• Ensure alignment with National Highways and LTC cost estimating protocols and governance.
• Benchmark costs against similar major projects (e.g. HS2, Tideway, Crossrail
  2).
• Present and defend estimates to senior stakeholders.
• Support commercial negotiations and value engineering exercises.
• Support the development of Basis of Estimate (BoE) documentation and estimating plans for PCF stage gates and investment reviews.
• Maintain audit trails and documentation for all estimating activities.
• Support risk and contingency planning through cost modelling and scenario analysis.
• Use industry-standard tools (e.g. CostX, Candy, Excel, BIM-integrated platforms).
• Maintain and update historical cost databases and benchmarking tools.
• Promote innovation in digital estimating and automation.

As an experienced Quantity Surveyor, you will bring demonstrable industry expertise, strong commercial acumen and established stakeholder management capabilities. Combining your sound commercial judgement, cost and estimating management skills, you will build trusted, collaborative relationships with clients, contractors and project teams, helping to drive successful project outcomes from inception through to completion.

• MRICS Chartered status or actively working towards it
• Demonstrable experience of managing end-to-end procurement aligned to NEC principles
• Robust understanding of commercial management, procurement and contract administration.
• Comfortable engaging and collaborating with stakeholders at all levels.
• Sound cost, risk, change and project performance management experience.
• A passion for continuous learning and supporting the development of others.
• Proficient with CostX or equivalent measurement/estimating tools

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing team, work on nationally significant programmes and play an important role in delivering infrastructure that create lasting social, economic and environmental impact.

• Competitive salary aligned to your experience and professional accreditations
• Flexible working arrangements — hybrid, part time, flexible hours and locations
• Income protection for long-term security
• Up to 10% employer pension contributions
• Comprehensive health cover including single medical cover & Digital GP (with options to add dependants)
• Family planning support including fertility healthcare
• Employee Networks to support colleagues from all backgrounds
• Enhanced parental leave and free access to support programmes
• Wellbeing Hub with free access to Calm, Daily Burn and more
• Professional Development — we pay your professional membership fees and offer extensive CPD opportunities
• Community Engagement — matched charity funding, paid volunteering days, and…