Trainee Quantity Surveyor Apprentice

• Assist the commercial team with subcontractor enquiries, tender comparisons and package procurement.
• Help prepare and review subcontract orders, scope documents and commercial records.
• Undertake site measurements, quantity take-offs and checks against drawings and specifications.
• Assist with monthly valuations, subcontractor payment applications and payment notices.
• Support cost reporting, forecasting, variation assessments and the tracking of project expenditure.
• Attend site visits and meetings, working alongside site managers, project managers and subcontractors.
• Maintain accurate records of quotations, instructions, variations and commercial correspondence.
• Learn how a main contractor manages cost, risk, programme and supply-chain relationships from procurement through to final account.

Cognisant will provide practical, on the job training within its commercial team, supported by experienced Quantity Surveyors and Commercial Managers. The trainee will gain exposure to live projects, from tendering and procurement through construction and final account.

Academic pathway - The intention is to support the trainee onto an appropriate Quantity Surveying degree apprenticeship, including agreed study time, subject to eligibility and confirmation of the training provider and course.

Professional development - Structured experience in measurement, subcontract procurement, valuations, variations, cost reporting and commercial administration, with increasing responsibility as skills develop.

Mentoring - Day to day guidance, regular feedback and support with professional development.

This role offers a route into a long-term career in quantity surveying with a main contractor. As knowledge and experience grow, the successful candidate could progress from Trainee Quantity Surveyor to Assistant Quantity Surveyor, Quantity Surveyor and, in time, more senior commercial roles. Support towards a relevant degree and professional qualification will be discussed as part of the apprenticeship arrangement.

Full UK Driving License or ability to travel to project sites.

Cognisant Construction Ltd is a Cambridge-based main contractor delivering construction projects, including residential developments. Working closely with clients, consultants, subcontractors and suppliers, the business manages projects through procurement and construction to completion. Our commercial team is responsible for securing subcontract packages, managing costs and variations, assessing payments and maintaining commercial control across live projects.