Small Business Graduate jobs

Edinburgh | £30,000+ | 9 day fortnight | APC Support

Looking for a graduate role where you'll get real responsibility, direct access to experienced chartered surveyors, and a clear route to becoming MRICS?

We're looking for a Graduate Quantity Surveyor to join our team in Edinburgh.

This isn't a large graduate scheme. You won't spend years sitting in the background or working through layers of management. You'll work directly with senior surveyors and directors, get involved in live projects from day one, and see first-hand how decisions are made.

If you're someone who asks questions, enjoys learning, and wants to develop quickly, we'd like to hear from you.

What you'll be doing

You'll support the delivery of refurbishment, retrofit and conversion projects across commercial and residential sectors.

Your role will include:

• Cost planning and estimating
• Tendering and procurement
• Contract administration support
• Site visits and project meetings
• Cost reporting
• Working with clients, design teams and contractors
• Supporting live projects through construction

You'll be involved in both pre-contract and post-contract work, giving you exposure to the full project lifecycle.

APC and professional development

We take professional development seriously.

We have two RICS assessors/counsellors within the business and will support you through your APC journey from the start.

We'll agree a structured development plan with you and provide regular support as you work towards chartership.

Our expectation is that you'll gradually take ownership of more responsibility, develop client-facing skills, and build the experience needed to become a well-rounded chartered surveyor.

Why graduates join us

• £30,000+ starting salary
• 9 day fortnight (every second Friday off)
• Bonus based on individual and company performance
• Direct access to directors and senior surveyors
• APC support from two RICS assessors/counsellors
• Early exposure to clients and projects
• Experience across a wide variety of refurbishment and retrofit schemes
• Flexible working arrangements
• 30 days annual leave
• Pension
• Team events

About Torridon

We're an independent quantity surveying practice specialising in refurbishment, retrofit and conversion projects.

Most of our work involves existing buildings across commercial and residential sectors. These projects often involve more uncertainty than new-build developments, which means careful planning, good judgement and clear communication matter.

We focus solely on cost consultancy. That independence allows us to work closely with clients, designers and contractors while maintaining a clear and objective perspective.

We're a small team, but being a smaller business means everyone contributes, everyone has a voice, and good work gets noticed.

We invest heavily in systems, technology and improving how quantity surveying services are delivered. Our goal is simple: give clients clarity, confidence and better information to support their decisions.

What we're looking for

Essential:

• BSc or MSc Quantity Surveying degree (or RICS-accredited equivalent)
• Minimum 2:1 classification
• Based in Edinburgh or willing to relocate
• Full UK driving licence

We're looking for someone who:

• Takes pride in their work
• Asks thoughtful questions
• Communicates well with others
• Wants to learn and develop
• Is comfortable taking responsibility

A quick reality check

A smaller team creates opportunities that larger graduate schemes often can't.

You'll get exposure to projects, clients and senior people much earlier in your career.

You'll also need to take ownership of your development and be proactive about learning.

Some graduates thrive in that environment. Others prefer a more structured programme. It's worth considering which approach suits you best.

Application process

Stage 1

Submit your application and answer the following questions:

1. In your own words, what do you think a Quantity Surveyor actually does on a project? (100 words max)

2. Why does a smaller team with early responsibility appeal to you? (100 words max)

Stage 2

Successful applicants will be invited to an informal online meeting where we'll learn more about you and tell you more about the business.

Stage 3

Final interview and potential offer.

Important

Applications are restricted to candidates with a Quantity Surveying degree (or equivalent RICS-accredited qualification).

Applicants must be based in Edinburgh or willing to relocate before starting work.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Graduate

Pay: From £30,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• Employee mentoring programme
• Enhanced maternity leave
• Sick pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Edinburgh EH2 3JZ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

• In your own words, what do you think a Quantity Surveyor actually does on a project? (100 words max)
• Why does a smaller team with early responsibility appeal to you? (100 words max)

Education:

• Bachelor's (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• RICS Accredited degree (i.e. Quantity Surveying) (required)

Work Location: In person