Vacant Post – Quantity Surveyor

Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Management
Work Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Closing Date: 30 November 2023

The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) spearheads South Africa’s activities in the Square Kilometre Array Radio Telescope, commonly known as the SKA, in engineering, science and construction. SARAO is a National Facility managed by the National Research Foundation and incorporates radio astronomy instruments and programmes such as the MeerKAT telescope in the Karoo, the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) in Gauteng, the African Very Long Baseline Interferometry (AVN) programme in nine African countries as well as the associated human capital development and commercialisation endeavours.

The Quantity Surveyor role is required to manage and optimize the financial aspects of engineering and construction projects. This role includes expertise in cost estimation, contract administration, and risk management contribution to the successful execution of projects.

The role also provides guidance on procurement strategies, prepares tender and contract documents, identify and address commercial risks, analyze tender costings, establish financial control systems, and oversee subcontractor allocations. Quantity Surveyors also negotiate to maintain budget adherence, offer advice on contractual claims, report on project progress, evaluate completed work for valuation and payment, and stay updated on relevant contract conditions and health and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

* Perform detailed quantity take-offs and measurements for project components and materials.
* Prepare accurate cost estimates for engineering, technology development and construction projects, including materials, labour, equipment, and other associated expenses.
* Develop and manage project budgets, track costs, and ensure adherence to budgetary constraints throughout the project lifecycle.
* Monitor project costs, analyse discrepancies, and implement cost control measures to keep the project within budget.
* Prepare tender pricing schedules (incl. BOQs), evaluate bids, and make recommendations for the selection of contractors and suppliers.
* Assist the Project Manager in the preparation of contractual agreements.
* Assess and manage variations and change orders, ensuring proper documentation and agreement with stakeholders.
* Valuing completed work and arranging payments.
* Identify potential risks related to cost, contracts, and project scope and develop strategies to mitigate them.
* Prepare regular reports on project financials, including cost forecasts, cash flow projections, and financial performance executive reports.
* Maintain effective communication with clients (internal & external stakeholders), providing updates on project cost status and addressing their concerns.
* Ensure that the quality of work and materials align with project specifications and standards.
* Stay updated with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting quantity surveying and construction projects.
* Lead and manage various supply contracts.
* Ensuring that final accounts are negotiated and agreed in a timely manner.
* Establishing and operating cost and financial control systems.
* Contribute towards the development and/or maintenance of project management framework and processes.
* Continuous professional development according to council guidelines; Research/literature studies on quantity surveying to improve expertise; Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on quantity survey-related matters.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:

* Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field
* Registration with a relevant professional membership (Advantageous)

Experience:

* At least 5 years􀂷􀀃quantity surveying experience in engineering and construction field
* A strong technical cost management, estimating competency, regulations, and industry standards
* Demonstrable experience in large-scale engineering and construction contracts
* Experience in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management

Knowledge:

* Knowledge of project management, planning, risk, and cost control
* Contract Management according to NEC4, FIDIC & GCC (preferred)
* Able to accurately forecast cost
* Proficiency in quantity surveying software and tools
* Project Management theory, principles, standards, and best practice
* Project Estimation
* Procurement and Contract Management
* Public Finance Management Act

Additional Notes:

* Strong decision-making
* Excellent communication – both verbal and written, in English
* Good analytical and planning skills
* Efficiency in a high-pressure environment
* Excellent mathematical and analytical skills
* Proactive
* Financial management
* Problem solving
* Proficient in using quantity surveying software and MS Office Suite
* Willingness to work outside normal hours
* Problem-solving
* No constraints on ability to travel within South Africa and Internationally

Information:

The website www.nrf.ac.za provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applications:

Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to https://ess.nrf.ac.za/Account/Recruitment and apply online. Applicationsshould be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant􀂷s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

Closing Date: 30 November 2023

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF Employment Equity Plan.

The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only