Quantity Surveyor (SOG/ST 5)

Job Purpose

Under the general direction of the Manager, Maintenance and Infrastructure Development, the Quantity Surveyor is responsible for determining the economic cost for estimate and manage all costs related to assigned projects (construction, renovation, repairs) that require building and upgrading of educational and youth infrastructure facilities and further ensuring that all costs are controlled within the approved budget.

Key Responsibilities

Technical/Professional: 

• Prepares and conducts Cost Study Analysis based on the architectural, engineering (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, civil) drawings, engineering and architectural estimates, materials required and the labour involved; 
• Reviews and critically evaluates the Discount Cash Flow (DCF) cost estimates submitted to assist in determining the value of investments; 
• Prepares all quantitative measurement and valuations during the contract, for agreement of interim payments, through to final payment, certificates for all renovation/maintenance assigned projects within the region; 
• Vets contractor tenders and contract documents; 
• Reviews the quality of all materials at the site and ensures compliance with all project specifications and quality, collaborates with the Department for all material procurement and maintains the quality of materials; 
• Maintains effective and open dialogue with the working team regarding changes in work, job conditions, contractor/subcontractor relations and any deviation in the direction of the project;
• Prepares Technical Reports and Practical Completion Certificates. 
• Prepares preliminary estimates for all building and civil engineering works.
• Liaises with the technical team members during the design phase to develop reliable and accurate cost estimates. 
• Reviews the Preliminary Development Budget to ascertain costing of proposed developments; 
• Prepares cost analysis for renovation and maintenance of projects; 
• Ensures that renovation and maintenance costs are maintained within the approved budget and expenditure; 
• Develops, monitors and maintains Cost Records for labour and materials, and for the overall contract cost/s; 
• Utilizes construction drawings to produce quantities and costs for the construction elements;
• Prepares Bill of Quantities for construction projects; 
• Conducts analysis and provides advice in relation to cases of dispute resolution;
• Prepares valuation of measured works; tracks variations to contracts that may affect costs and creates reports that show financial impact; 
• Evaluates and reviews contractors’ claims in relation to projects; 
• Keeps abreast of the latest developments in the construction industry; 
• Maintains effective working relationships with clients and other stakeholders, including relevant Government Agencies; 
• Contributes to the development/review of operating policies and procedures, including technical guidelines for the project; 
• Provides technical advice on relevant quantity surveying related matters;
• Performs any other related duties that may be assigned from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Excellent attention to detail 
• Excellent presentation, oral and written communication skills 
• Good problem solving and decision-making skills 
• Excellent time management and organizing skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines 
• Excellent analytical skills 
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with persons at all levels including clients, architects, engineering professionals, sub-contractors, including construction site workers. 
• Good negotiating skills 

Technical: 

• Excellent knowledge of Quantity Surveying methodology 
• Knowledge of the GOJ procurement guidelines. 
• Knowledge of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) requirement construction/refurbishment 
• Knowledge of the policies and procedures and Acts governing the operations of project
• Knowledge of construction methods, practices, schedules, logistics and budgets
• Knowledge of the Master Builders JIIC Agreement and labour rates 
• Knowledge of Building Code of Jamaica Institute of Quantity Surveyors 
• Knowledge of Contract Administration process and the established form of contract
• Knowledge of Budgetary systems and procedures, with the ability to monitor and control the maintenance budget effectively
• Proficiency in construction/project management computer software and MS Office suite 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Quantity Surveying/Cost Engineering or equivalent from an accredited educational institution; 
• Jamaica Institute of Quantity Surveyors JIQS Certified or equivalent preferred;
• Three (3) years post qualification experience; 
• Training in project management would be an asset. 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• Required to visit construction sites which can be dusty and hazardous; 
• Required to travel islandwide including areas which are hilly with winding and remote terrain;
• Required to work beyond normal working hours at times to meet deadlines;
• Work with equipment and specialized software; 
• Fast paced environment; 
• High degrees of pressure on occasions to meet tight deadlines; 
• Frequent intra-island travel and extended working hours are required; 
• Required to be the holder of a valid Drivers’ License and a reliable motor vehicle. 

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.