Commercial

From identifying new opportunities, to delivering the best service for our clients, our Commercial team is at the heart of what we do. It’s an interesting, varied, and rewarding career.

You’ll find no better place to build your career

Join a winning team…

Business is booming at Wates, and we have the best reputation in the industry, bar none. Twenty years ago, we were worth £200m. Today, it’s £2.5bn. The Commercial team has played a vital role in enabling that success, as well as supporting our response to the Building Safety Act and journey toward Carbon Zero.

If you’d like to join our winning team, there are a huge range of opportunities available, from admin roles to commercial directors and everything in between. There is something for every stage of your career. Most importantly, once you’re here, we’ll support you at your pace, with individually tailored training based on your specific role.

At Wates, we aim to support our internal talent first, rather than recruit externally. This approach ensures our people get opportunities to develop and take the next step on the ladder.

Help your career thrive

Who we’re looking for…

Whether you’re an experienced commercial person, looking to change career, or returning to work after a break, get in touch. The Commercial team is a dynamic place to be at Wates especially as our sectors and the world are evolving rapidly.

You don’t need experience in the built environment. It’s more about having the right qualities.  For commercial roles, things like integrity and fairness are crucial. We value commitment, curiosity and open-mindedness, and we encourage bringing forward good ideas. Numeracy and literacy are essential transferrable skills.

You’ll also need to be organised, methodical, and able to follow instructions. Since you’ll be dealing with lots of different people daily, excellent people skills, relationship management, stakeholder management and communication skills are vital. It truly is an exciting team to be part of and we welcome everyone from all backgrounds to come and join us.

Testimonials

Hear from our people

Emma Newbold

Head of Procurement and Fleet

“Over the 20years (so far) working at Wates I have been able to experience a breadth of different projects and areas within the Commercial function and alongside other functions within the business. The variety of opportunities offered to me at various stages of my career has allowed me to develop a wide range of skills, knowledge and expertise that has really supported the growth and change throughout my path to date. Having supportive, trusted colleagues and leaders has been a massive part of my journey so far and I look forward to seeing what the next 20 or so years of adventure at Wates has to offer!”

Careers in commercial

Want to be a part of our team?

Site Surveyor

Location: Wolverhampton

Job Type: Commercial

Application Deadline: 11-03-2026

Site Surveyor – Planned Works (Social Housing)Division: WPS PlannedLocation: West Midlands (regional travel)Job Type: Full TimeContract Type: PermanentWorking Pattern: Hybrid – office and site basedAbout the roleDue to recent contract wins and continued business growth, WPS Planned is seeking an experienced Site Surveyor to join our team covering the West Midlands.The role will support the delivery of planned social housing works, including Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) projects, kitchens, bathrooms, roofing, and associated refurbishment programmes. This is a varied role combining office‑based duties with regular site visits across the contract area.Key responsibilities Undertake site surveys and measurements to support planned works programmes Produce and price scoping documents using agreed Schedules of Rates (SOR) Support cost control, valuations, and commercial reporting Work closely with operational teams to support programme delivery Assist with procurement of works packages and liaise with subcontractors Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, residents, and internal stakeholders Ensure compliance with health & safety, quality, and company proceduresEssential experience and skills Proven experience working within the social housing sector – essential Demonstrable background delivering planned social housing works Experience of workstreams such as SHDF, kitchens & bathrooms, roofing, or similar refurbishment programmes Confident carrying out surveys, measurements, and pricing works Strong communication and stakeholder management skills Full UK driving licence (regional travel required)Applications without social housing experience will not be considered.Desirable Relevant surveying or construction‑related qualification Experience working for a main contractor or property services providerWhat we offer Permanent role within a growing planned division Strong pipeline of secured work across the West Midlands Career development and progression opportunities Competitive salary and benefits packageGiven the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Assistant Quantity Surveyor

Location: Liverpool

Job Type: Commercial

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

Wates are looking for an Assistant Quantity Surveyor to join our Construction Team focussing on high profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors.If you are passionate about the commercial aspects of Construction and are looking for an opportunity to challenge the norm, bring fresh new ideas and elevate yourself within the industry then join us and help to create tomorrow together.This is a great opportunity to progress your career as part of a talented, diverse, and supportive team.ABOUT THE ROLEOur Assistant Quantity Surveyors are a valuable part of our business, providing support to the Quantity Surveyors in the development and implementation of all pre and post contract strategies, commercial functions and contract reporting. Assistant Quantity Surveyors work collaboratively with our customers and industry specialists with a firm focus on added value, compliance, commercial viability, and best practice.As our Assistant Quantity Surveyor you will be involved in:· Procurement of materials, equipment and subcontract works – undertaking commercial assessment of quotes received and ensure the timely placement of orders to facilitate project delivery and ensure business objectives are met.· Commercial management of smaller sub-contract packages, ensuring all contractual processes are completed on time including measurement and valuation of sub-contract applications.· Complete agreed record keeping in relation to the project, whilst monitoring and handling payments in relation to plant, materials and labour.WHAT WE OFFER· Competitive salary & profit share scheme· Flexible working· Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade)· Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates)· Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more…· Excellent range of learning and development activity to support your career progression.· Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies, discuss career opportunities in strict confidence or need anything to make our recruitment process easier, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly or via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Assistant Quantity Surveyor

Location: Birmingham

Job Type: Commercial

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

Wates are looking for an Assistant Quantity Surveyor to join our Construction Team in the West focussing on high profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors.If you are passionate about the commercial aspects of Construction and are looking for an opportunity to challenge the norm, bring fresh new ideas and elevate yourself within the industry then join us and help to create tomorrow together.This is a great opportunity to progress your career as part of a talented, diverse, and supportive team.ABOUT THE ROLEOur Assistant Quantity Surveyors are a valuable part of our business, providing support to the Quantity Surveyors in the development and implementation of all pre and post contract strategies, commercial functions and contract reporting. Assistant Quantity Surveyors work collaboratively with our customers and industry specialists with a firm focus on added value, compliance, commercial viability, and best practice.As our Assistant Quantity Surveyor you will be involved in:· Procurement of materials, equipment and subcontract works – undertaking commercial assessment of quotes received and ensure the timely placement of orders to facilitate project delivery and ensure business objectives are met.· Commercial management of smaller sub-contract packages, ensuring all contractual processes are completed on time including measurement and valuation of sub-contract applications.· Complete agreed record keeping in relation to the project, whilst monitoring and handling payments in relation to plant, materials and labour.WHAT WE OFFER· Competitive salary & bonus· Flexible working· Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade)· Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates)· Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more…· Excellent range of learning and development activity to support your career progression.· Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity. To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies, discuss career opportunities in strict confidence or need anything to make our recruitment process easier, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly or via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Quantity Surveyor Apprentice – Level 4

Location: Cardiff

Job Type: Commercial

Application Deadline: 10-03-2026

Ready to take the next step in your career and join a supportive, collaborative team where everyone can thrive.About the role As a Quantity Surveying Apprentice, you’ll gain practical experience and insight into the commercial aspects of built-environment projects. You’ll learn about processes and activities that support cost management, profitability, and risk control gaining technical skills in measurement, estimating, procurement, and contracts. Your Responsibilities Responsibilities include but are not limited to the below: Build positive, collaborative relationships with stakeholders at all levels, including customers and supply chain partners. Support the preparation, review, and analysis of commercial reports and documentation related to project finances. Assist in drafting and issuing subcontractor documents and payment notifications. Attend meetings with senior team members to support subcontractor payments and account reviews. Help negotiate rates and prices with subcontractors and suppliers. Help maintain the company’s financial and contractual position by understanding project progress and legal requirements. Develop knowledge and skills in forecasting, risk assessment, and cash flow management.About you To thrive on this programme, you’ll bring: An interest in building a career in the built environment Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills A curious mindset and willingness to ask questions Dependable and professional in approach The ability to solve problems and think logically Strong communication, organisational and time management skills Prioritising tasks to meet agreed deadline Competent in use of computer software including Microsoft Excel Team working ethic both within commercial team and within whole organisationQualifications To be considered for this apprenticeship you will need to have achieved a Grade 4 or C and above in Maths and English BTEC Level 3 qualification in Construction and the Built Environment (or a related subject) Other related Level 3 qualificationsApplicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply.Roles may close before the deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.Our Commitment to inclusion We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.We're especially keen to hear from individuals who are underrepresented in the construction sector – including women, people from ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities. If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know – we’re here to support you.