Degree Apprentice Quantity Surveyor

Balfour Beatty Degree Apprentice Quantity Surveyor role combining paid work with degree-level study while developing skills in cost management, contracts, procurement, commercial reporting and construction project delivery.

About the role

We are Balfour Beatty. You may not know us by name, but you'll recognise what we do. We're a leading international infrastructure group, building, maintaining and improving infrastructure that supports communities for generations to come.

As an Degree Apprentice Quantity Surveyor you'll join our 2027 Early Careers programme and gain hands-on experience while contributing to some of the UK's most significant infrastructure projects. From day one, you'll be mentored by experienced colleagues, develop technical and professional skills, and gain real-world experience that complements your studies. You'll also be part of a supportive early careers community, building the knowledge, skills and industry-recognised qualifications needed to build a successful career.

In this role, you'll join one of our Balfour Beatty Power T&D teams based in Derby.

What you'll be doing

As an Degree Apprentice Quantity Surveyor, you'll play an important role in the commercial management of major infrastructure and construction projects. Working alongside experienced Quantity Surveyors and project teams, you'll gain hands-on experience managing costs, contracts, procurement activities, and commercial performance while developing the skills needed to help projects achieve successful outcomes.

You'll learn how construction projects are managed from a commercial perspective, supporting everything from subcontract procurement and cost forecasting through to contract administration and financial reporting. Through practical experience and formal training, you'll build strong analytical, commercial, and communication skills while developing an understanding of how projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and within budget.

You'll learn how to:

• Support the management and control of project costs throughout the project lifecycle
• Assist with cost reporting, forecasting, valuations, and financial performance monitoring
• Help prepare and maintain commercial records, contract documentation, and project cost information
• Support subcontract procurement activities, including tendering, quotation analysis, and subcontract administration
• Assist with measuring completed works and evaluating costs against project budgets and commercial targets
• Help identify, record, and manage project changes, variations, and commercial risks
• Support the preparation of applications for payment, cost reports, and financial updates
• Work with project managers, engineers, planners, suppliers, and subcontractors to support effective project delivery
• Assist with monitoring subcontractor performance and managing commercial accounts in accordance with contractual requirements
• Support project reviews, commercial meetings, and reporting activities
• Develop an understanding of contracts, commercial processes, procurement strategies, and risk management
• Help ensure project information, forecasts, and financial records are accurate, up to date, and well managed
• Use digital tools and systems to support commercial management, reporting, and project controls
• Develop your understanding of quantity surveying, commercial management, construction contracts, cost control, and project delivery while working towards your apprenticeship qualification

Alongside your role, you'll attend Northumbria on day release/block release and work towards a Construction Quantity Surveyor (Degree) Level 6 in Construction quantity surveyor Level 6. 

Who we're looking for

We value your potential over experience. If you are self-motivated, proactive, and eager to start a career in our industry, this role could be for you.

Our Level 6 Apprenticeship is perfect for those who have achieved 3 A Levels (or equivalent) ideally in Maths, Science and are looking for a degree-level alternative without going to university full-time. You’ll combine advanced academic study with real-world experience, giving you the chance to earn while you learn, gain a recognised qualification, and build a strong professional career from day one.

We’d also love to receive your application if you:

• Are keen to learn and develop new skills.
• Enjoy solving problems and finding practical solutions.
• Work well with others and contribute positively to a team.
• Communicate clearly and effectively.
• Show initiative, adapt to challenges and take pride in achieving results.

Why work for us as an Apprentice

• Earn while you learn, gaining hands-on experience while working towards fully funded, industry-recognised qualifications.
• Work on impactful projects that help shape communities, while building your career with one of the UK's leading infrastructure groups.
• Learn from experienced professionals who will support your development through mentoring, coaching and on-the-job learning.
• Take part in unique development opportunities, including residential programmes in the Lake District and personal development experiences delivered by our external partners.
• Build the foundations for a long-term career, with support towards professional membership and chartership or professional registration where relevant to your role.

What we can offer you

• Competitive salary and flexible benefits, giving you the freedom to shape a rewards package that works for you.
• 25 days’ holiday, with the option to buy or sell additional days.
• A permanent contract from day one, reflecting our commitment to your long-term career.
• Clear progression opportunities, with bi-annual performance and pay reviews throughout your programme.
• Opportunities to come together with peers, including welcome events and to celebrate your journey at the end-of-programme Early Careers Showcase.
• Opportunities to get involved in wider experiences and initiatives, such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

About us

The power sector is one of the fastest-growing areas in infrastructure, helping to keep homes, businesses and communities connected. It plays a vital role in supporting the UK's transition to a low-carbon future by strengthening electricity networks and enabling the integration of renewable energy sources.