At Tilbury Douglas, you won’t just be taking a year out from university – you’ll be helping to deliver essential infrastructure that makes a real difference to people and communities.
Our Year Out Placement gives you the opportunity to put your Quantity Surveying studies into practice while gaining substantial commercial experience on live construction projects. As a placement Quantity Surveyor, you’ll work alongside experienced commercial professionals, developing your understanding of cost management, procurement, contracts and commercial decision-making.
Why we love construction
Hear from our colleagues about why they love working in construction and their advice on how to gain work experience and get into the sector!
You’ll make a real contribution to the project team, building the practical knowledge, confidence and professional relationships that will support your final year of study and future career.
This is a site-based role, located in Shotley Bridge, within our Regional Building team in the North East region. You will need flexibility to travel across project sites in the region as part of your placement.
What you’ll be doing
As a Year Out Quantity Surveyor, you’ll develop your skills and gain the commercial experience you need before returning to university for your final year.
No two days are the same and, with the support of experienced colleagues, you’ll:
Assist with the day-to-day commercial management of construction projects.
Support the preparation of cost estimates, budgets, forecasts and commercial reports.
Assist with the procurement of subcontractors and suppliers, including preparing enquiries and reviewing quotations.
Develop your understanding of subcontract packages and the commercial processes involved in appointing and managing the supply chain.
Assist with the preparation, review and assessment of subcontractor valuations and payments.
Help monitor project costs against budgets and understand how financial performance is managed.
Support the identification, assessment and management of variations and changes.
Develop your understanding of construction contracts and how contractual requirements influence project delivery.
Assist with maintaining accurate commercial records and project documentation.
Attend commercial, project and progress meetings, contributing as your knowledge develops.
Develop your understanding of commercial risk and opportunity, and how these are managed throughout a project.
Work collaboratively with operational, design and engineering teams to understand how project decisions influence cost and commercial performance.
Gain experience using the digital systems and tools that support commercial management.
Build strong working relationships with project teams, clients, consultants, subcontractors and suppliers.
Take on increasing responsibility for commercial activities as your skills, knowledge and confidence develop.
Why this role?
This isn’t just about numbers – it’s about understanding how commercial decisions influence every stage of a construction project.
Over the course of your placement, you’ll gain meaningful experience in procurement, cost management, valuations, contracts, variations and commercial reporting. You’ll see how Quantity Surveyors work with project teams and the supply chain to manage risk, control costs and deliver value.
A full year gives you the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the commercial lifecycle of a project, build meaningful professional relationships and take on increasing responsibility as your capabilities develop.
You’ll return to university with practical commercial experience, greater confidence and a stronger understanding of what a career in Quantity Surveying involves.
What we’re looking for
We want to hear from people who are passionate about making a difference through construction and the built environment. You’ll bring:
You are currently studying towards a degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a closely related discipline, and undertaking a placement year as part of your studies.
A full UK driving licence, or be working towards obtaining one by February 2027.
Strong problem-solving skills, with a practical and logical approach.
Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage with a wide range of people.
A collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm to learn and take on responsibility.
Previous placement or site experience is desirable but not essential.
What we offer
Start building your future with a year-out placement designed to help you learn, develop and gain meaningful industry experience.
Twelve months of supported development to build your skills and experience before returning to your final year of study.
Mentoring and guidance from experienced civil engineering and construction professionals.
A competitive salary.
Two volunteering days during your placement.
Opportunities to work on diverse and meaningful projects.
An inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions make a real difference.
Selection Process Timeline
Video Interview – Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a video interview. Invitations will be sent between 16 November and 1 December 2026, and candidates will have one week to complete and submit their interview.
Interview – Successful candidates will progress to a formal interview, taking place between 11 and 27 January 2027.
Offer – Successful candidates will receive an offer by the week ending 12 February 2027.
We've signed the Gradcracker feedback pledge.
(This means that we will supply feedback if requested after an interview.)
