Nicol Of Skene Ltd
Graduate Apprentice Quantity Surveyor

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Graduate Apprentice Quantity Surveyor
Westhill, Aberdeenshire
About the Role
Nicol of Skene, a leading Civil Engineering, Horizontal Directional Drilling & Multi-Utility Contractor, is seeking a Graduate Apprentice Quantity Surveyor to join our growing team.
This is an opportunity to develop a career in Quantity Surveying, combining practical experience with study towards a BSc (Hons) Built Environment through Robert Gordon University (RGU).
You will work alongside our experienced Commercial team, gaining an understanding of the financial and contractual management of our civil engineering, multi-utility and directional drilling projects. Your experience will include estimating, measurement, procurement, cost monitoring and contract administration.
You will follow the Quantity Surveying stream within the degree, developing specialist knowledge and applying it to live projects as you progress More information on the course can be found here: https://www.rgu.ac.uk/study/courses/graduate-apprenticeship-in-bsc-hons-built-environment
Throughout your apprenticeship, you will be supported by a workplace mentor and experienced colleagues who will help you develop your skills and confidence.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Commercial team with the financial and contractual management of projects
- Learn to measure and quantify works from drawings and site information
- Support the preparation of estimates and tender submissions
- Assist with obtaining and comparing supplier and subcontractor quotations
- Help prepare Applications for Payment and supporting documentation
- Support the recording and assessment of variations and changes to project scope
- Assist with monitoring project costs and preparing commercial reports
- Maintain accurate records of contracts, orders, quotations and project correspondence
- Work with our engineering and operational teams to understand site activities and construction methods
- Attend university learning sessions and complete coursework, assessments and work-based learning requirements
- Follow company procedures and promote a strong Health & Safety culture
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Working Pattern
- Contract Type – Full-time, Fixed-Term
- Hours of work – 8.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday
- Supported study and university attendance as required by the programme
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Private Healthcare
- Company Pension Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Supported study towards a BSc (Hons) Built Environment through RGU, following the Quantity Surveying stream
- Funded university tuition, subject to eligibility and funded-place availability
- Dedicated workplace mentor
- Ongoing training and development
- Practical experience alongside our Commercial team
- Supportive working environment
On successful completion of your apprenticeship, you will gain a formal qualification alongside valuable practical experience, providing a strong foundation for your future career. Opportunities for continued employment with Nicol of Skene may be available, subject to business requirements and performance.
Requirements
Entry Requirements:
RGU's Standard Academic Entry Requirement Is
- 4 Scottish Highers at grades BBBC
RGU also considers equivalent qualifications and alternative entry routes individually, including Foundation Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, SVQs/NVQs and access programmes.
Applicants who do not meet the standard academic requirements may be considered with at least one year's relevant work experience and a detailed CV demonstrating the skills they have developed.


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Applicants must have the right to live and work in Scotland and will be employed full-time in a relevant role with Nicol of Skene throughout the programme.
Appointment to the Graduate Apprenticeship is subject to acceptance onto the RGU course and confirmation of funding eligibility.
Skills & Experience
- Genuine interest in quantity surveying and the construction industry
- Good numeracy, analytical and problem-solving skills
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
- Good organisational and time management skills
- Strong attention to detail and willingness to work accurately
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Willingness to ask questions, learn new skills and take on responsibility
- Proactive approach with a positive, can-do attitude
- Willingness to work in both office and site environments
- Commitment to completing the apprenticeship and its academic requirements
Previous quantity surveying experience is not essential, as training and support will be provided.
How To Apply
To apply, please send your CV, covering letter and salary expectation to: careers@nicolofskene.com
Right to Work in the UK
While we welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, Nicol of Skene Ltd is currently unable to provide visa sponsorship. Therefore, applicants must have the unrestricted Right to Work in the UK to be considered for this position.
Equal Opportunities
Nicol of Skene is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.
We value teamwork, quality and continuous improvement and are always looking for talented people to support our continued growth.
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