Commercial Specialist Apprentice

Closing Date

2026-07-30

Apprentice Commercial Specialist (Quantity Surveyor)

Location: Falmer, Sussex – Hybrid Approach

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday - Friday

Salary: £25,000

Find your purpose. Shape your future. Build a career that matters.

We're looking for an Apprentice Commercial Specialist to join our Commercial team and help support major projects across Southern Water.

This is an exciting opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining hands-on experience while studying towards a Quantity Surveying degree with the University of Brighton.

Working under experienced Commercial Managers, you'll learn how to manage project costs, support contracts, analyse data and help deliver value across large infrastructure projects.

No previous commercial experience is required. We'll provide the training, support and mentoring you need to succeed.

What you'll be doing

• Supporting project cost planning and budgeting

• Helping to manage contracts and suppliers

• Analysing data and producing reports

• Supporting commercial audits and reviews

• Working with Project Managers and other teams to help deliver successful projects

• Learning about procurement, cost management and contract administration

Training and development

• You'll combine practical work experience with academic study, developing the skills needed for a successful career in Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying.

• During the programme you'll:

• Attend the University of Brighton one day per week

• Gain experience across different areas of the business

• Develop skills in cost management, contracts and procurement

• Build communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills

• On successful completion, you'll achieve a Bachelor's degree and work towards becoming a Chartered Surveyor through RICS.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for someone who is curious, organised and keen to learn.

You'll need:

• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above

• A Levels meeting the University of Brighton entry requirements (typically BBC to CCC including Maths)

• Good Microsoft Office skills, including Excel.

• The right to work in the UK

• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle, as travel to sites will be required

Career progression

Following successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into Assistant Commercial Manager, Commercial Manager and Senior Commercial Manager roles.

Recruitment process

We're excited to hear from people with a range of experiences and backgrounds. If you're interested in this opportunity, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

As we're working towards a September programme start and have a defined recruitment timeline, this vacancy may close earlier than advertised if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. To avoid missing out, we recommend submitting your application as soon as you can.

Our recruitment process will include:

• An application review
• A short questionnaire to help us learn more about your skills, strengths and motivations
• An interview with the hiring team

We're aiming for the successful candidate to start on 21 September 2026, although this date may be subject to change.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. We're committed to creating an inclusive experience where everyone has the opportunity to demonstrate their potential.

Ready to get started?

Apply now to join our Commercial Apprenticeship Programme and build valuable skills, gain a degree qualification and start a rewarding career with Southern Water.