About the role
We are looking for an MEP Cost Manager to provide independent, rate-based MEP cost assurance for the client from tender through to final account, backed by strong system knowledge and current UAE/GCC market insight.
Key Responsibilities
Pre Contract:
•Take off and structure MEP BOQs (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire fighting, fire alarm/VESDA, BMS/ELV) against drawings and specifications.
•Build up and benchmark MEP rates from first principles (labour, material, plant, productivity, preliminaries, overheads and profit).
•Obtain and validate supplier and subcontractor quotations against current UAE/GCC market pricing, lead times and trends.
•Analyse tender returns for scope gaps, front-loading, unbalanced rates and unrealistic productivity assumptions.
•Review vendor recommendation reports for technical compliance, price comparison and award rationale.
•Advise on cost impact of design development and value engineering options with the MEP design team.
Post Contract:
•Assess interim payment applications: measured progress, stored materials and contract invoicing requirements.
•Evaluate variations and claims for entitlement and quantum using validated rate build-ups.
•Manage provisional sums and procurement flows, tracking buy-out, drawdown and savings.
•Prepare cost reports, forecasts and cost-to-complete assessments for the client.
Requirements
•Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or Building Services Engineering; MRICS preferred.
•8+ years in MEP quantity surveying, 5+ in the GCC, on large complex projects (venues, data centres, healthcare, airports, etc.).
•Proven ability to build, deconstruct and defend MEP rates and productivity. Sound knowledge of major MEP systems, specialist equipment and drawings/specifications.
•Current knowledge of the UAE/GCC MEP supply chain, pricing trends. Measurement software experience (CostX or other) and advanced Excel skills.
•Located in Abu Dhabi, or willing to relocate to Abu Dhabi.
Location
On-site – Abu Dhabi, ARE
