Total 16,401 job vacancies in Singapore

Senior Manager, Cost & Contract Management (Construction / Real Estate | 15+ yrs) CL-CR-01

Interested applicants do reach out via email to claire@2nats.com (do not only apply through this job portal, TQ!)

Our client is looking for a seasoned cost and contract management professional to support building projects across budgeting, tendering, contract administration, and post-contract cost control. This role will work closely with internal stakeholders, consultants, and procurement teams to ensure projects are commercially well managed from pre- to post-contract stage.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare cost estimates, feasibility studies, BOQs, and cost plans

Support tendering, contract documentation, and vendor coordination

Monitor budgets, cash flow, variation orders, claims, and final accounts

Review cost assessments and work with consultants on project cost matters

Partner internal teams on value engineering and cost optimisation initiatives

Requirements

Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, Building, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related discipline

15+ years of relevant experience in quantity surveying, cost management, and contract administration

Strong stakeholder management skills and ability to work independently

Familiarity with Singapore project environment; regional exposure is a plus

Proficiency in tools such as CADD, CostX, and Glodon

Why this role

This opportunity is ideal for a seasoned commercial construction professional who enjoys owning the full cost and contract lifecycle, from feasibility and tendering through to final accounts. The role offers broad exposure across project stakeholders and the chance to influence cost efficiency and commercial outcomes at a strategic level.

Interested applicants do reach out via email to claire@2nats.com (do not only apply through this job portal, TQ!)

--

Claire Lin Xiuxin

Co-Founder | 2Nats (Nat & Nat Search Pte Ltd)

Whatsapp Messaging: +65 8892 1316 | Email: claire@2nats.com

Website: https://2nats.com/

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/clairelinxx/

EA Licence No.: R1103711

About ALPS

ALPS was set up in 2018 as part of Ministry of Health’s (MOH) strategic thrust in delivering value-based supply chain solutions to public healthcare.

As the public healthcare supply chain agency, we design and execute a national level end-to-end supply chain blueprint in partnership with 27 Public Healthcare Institutions (PHIs) in Singapore.

Our employees are key to our excellence – the heartbeat in sustaining our mission, developing new capabilities and re-engineering processes to future-proof Singapore’s healthcare supply chain landscape – making it more sustainable and resilient.

Job Overview

As an Assistant Manager/Manager, Procurement, you are to lead and oversee end-to-end Procurement activities for assigned categories relating to hospital products & services, ensuring alignment with clinical and operational requirements. Partner stakeholders across clinical, operational, and other functions to deliver procurement outcomes.

Work location will be located at Tengah Town District, hospital is not yet ready for operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure sourcing of products and services is in alignment with clinical and operational needs.

• Drive and implement cost containment strategies, aligned with operational priorities and financial objectives.

• Manage end-to-end sourcing activities including evaluation, negotiation and award recommendation in accordance with procurement policies and governance framework.

• Continuous improvement initiatives to enhance procurement efficiency

• Prepare and deliver presentations to senior management

Requirements

• Degree in Engineering, business, supply chain or related discipline.

• Minimum 6 years of procurement experiencese

• Demonstrated experiences in supervising procurement team

• Process knowledge of procurement governance

• Proven analytical and negotiation skills

• Strong verbal and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate clearly with stakeholders at all levels

• Familiarity with SAP procurement module is required

• Proficient in MS PowerPoint and Excel

By submitting any application or resume to us, you will be deemed to have agreed and consented to us collecting, using, retaining, and disclosing your information to potential hiring managers for their consideration. All information will be treated with highest confidentiality.

An exciting career awaits you at ALPS. Join us to embark on a meaningful career that brings value and impact to the population. Apply now if that sounds like something you would like to be a part of.

Only shortlisted candidates would be notified.

• Lead and manage a team of supervisors, workers, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure timely project completion.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of shop drawings, as-built drawings, and material take-offs.
• Coordinate site activities, resolve issues, and attend site meetings with contractors and stakeholders.
• Monitor work progress, quality, and material usage to meet project standards and schedules.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations on-site.

Requirements:

• Diploma in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
• At least 5 years of project management experience in electrical works for Construction Projects.
• Good knowledge in MEP design.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and committed to meeting deadlines.

If you are keen to apply for the position, kindly email your detailed resume in MS Word to hr@recruit-expert.com

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

For more job opportunities, please visit our website at www.recruit-expert.com

EA Licence: 19C9701
Registration: R1326740

• Oversee QA/QC, installation, testing, and commissioning of electrical and mechanical systems, ensuring adherence to project schedules.
• Coordinate with vendors, clients, and contractors in meetings for system energization and startup activities.
• Ensure systems operate per project specifications, conducting Root Cause Analysis and resolving technical issues.
• Interpret and apply Electrical Single Line Diagrams (SLD), Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID), and LOTO safety procedures.
• Provide regular progress updates to stakeholders and communicate with the Commissioning Agent for issue resolution.

Requirements:

• Degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• At least 5 years in electrical and mechanical commissioning relevant experience in the Construction/M&E industry.
• Strong teamwork, perseverance, diligence, integrity, and initiative.

If you are keen to apply for the position, kindly email your detailed resume in MS Word to hr@recruit-expert.com

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

For more job opportunities, please visit our website at www.recruit-expert.com

EA Licence: 19C9701
Registration: R1326740

Job Summary

You will manage and execute civil engineering projects as a Resident Technical Officer/Resident Engineer, coordinating with clients, subcontractors, and company staff to ensure timely project completion and prepare tender documents for submission.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate effectively with clients to understand project requirements and maintain strong communication throughout project phases
• Prepare comprehensive tender documents to support successful bid submissions
• Coordinate with subcontractors and internal teams to ensure smooth workflow and adherence to project timelines
• Manage and execute project work to meet quality standards and deadlines
• Serve as Resident Technical Officer/Resident Engineer, overseeing on-site technical operations and resolving issues promptly

Required competencies and certifications

• Possess a BCA approved degree in Civil Engineering (essential for regulatory compliance and professional practice)

Job Description

The Warehouse Manager is responsible for overseeing daily warehouse operations, ensuring efficient storage, inventory management, and distribution of goods. This role focuses on optimizing processes, maintaining safety standards, and leading warehouse staff to achieve operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and supervise all warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, picking, packing, and shipping
• Maintain accurate inventory levels and conduct regular stock audits
• Implement and improve warehouse processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies
• Coordinate with suppliers, transport providers, and internal departments
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and prepare operational reports
• Train, schedule, and evaluate warehouse staff
• Handle issues related to delays, damages, or discrepancies in shipments
• Oversee warehouse layout optimization and space utilization

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations
• Design strategy and set goals for growth
• Maintain budgets and optimize expenses
• Set policies and processes
• Ensure employees work productively and develop professionally
• Oversee recruitment and training of new employees
• Evaluate and improve operations and financial performance
• Direct the employee assessment process
• Prepare regular reports for upper management
• Ensure staff follows health and safety regulations
• Provide solutions to issues (e.g. profit decline, employee conflicts, loss of business to competitors)

Requirements and skills

• Proven experience as a Manager or similar executive role
• Experience in planning and budgeting
• Strong analytical ability
• Excellent communication skills
• Outstanding organizational and leadership skills
• Problem-solving aptitude
• Able to work on weekend and public holiday

• Assist the manager/assistant manager in the daily operations of the outlet.
• Ensure guest needs are taken care of and recommend them the promotional items.
• Responsible and accountable for all cash amounts within outlet, in the absence of manager.
• Coach and train existing and new staff.
• Responsible for proper opening and closing of the outlet.
• Feedback to the manager on any operational issues.
• Responsible for the outlet upkeep and cleanliness
• Responsible for Inventory.

Roles & Responsibilities

The role involves the execution of duties to the highest possible standards. Your primary responsibility will be to lead and perform all of the activities necessary to plan, procure, manage and administer all issues related to power & construction and industrial site work.

Your duties will involve working closely with project staff and contractors across multiple technical disciplines requiring the supervision of numerous simultaneous tasks to meet very specific and immovable milestones. You will be privy to confidential information by necessity.

You will treat all such information with the highest levels of confidentiality and will perform your role with integrity and honour at all times.

It is expected that the Manager’s role will require, but not be limited to the following key functions:

* Planning/Scheduling

* Implement a high-level effective project management framework and method statement, incorporating necessary review processes as required

* Revew the master programme and other reports to ensure timeline is met

* Secure resources, suppliers, product for the Client as required

* Monitor the design, construction, and dismantling programme and identify opportunities for improved delivery

* Risk Management

* Proactively identify potential problems, conflicts, design and delivery issues using risk management tools and skills to mitigate impact on the project

* Identify Health and Safety issues and to report as per procedure

* Site, Oversee the effective operation of the activities related to the P&C Contracts through conducting regular site visits and quality checks

* People, Manage and direct the P&C team to provide overall superintendence and ensure that the project team staff, contractors, etc., work well and provide a supportive environment for the achievement of the project

* Holding weekly staff meeting with P&C team, monitoring and reviewing staff working hours and writing performance reviews for P&C staff

* Contract Management • Negotiate and convert contracts as required by the project

* Oversee the award of contracts and ensure the client is adequately protected

* Scheduling, minuting and issuing various project meetings and ensure minutes are actioned in a timely manner

* Provide regular and accurate reporting on the project progress, costs and quality

* Review and oversee the management of all P&C contracts and ensure that there are no major gaps or issues in providing the required P&C deliverables

* Monitoring and reviewing all P&C work instructions and variations ensuring that all information is accurate, recorded and follows the designated project approval process

* Manage and document changes/variations following approval by Client • Ensure contractors and consultants are paid in accordance with contract schedules

* Review any procurement requirements and provide all necessary P&C technical support to the procurement process • Client Management

* Take the leading role in interfacing with the Client and contractors on all P&C matters at all project stages

* Actively seek and implement strategies to improve the client’s position in regard to return and value

* Identity and resolve disputes quickly and reasonably

* Develop and maintain excellent relationships with Client, authorities, consultants, contractors and adjoining property owners/stakeholders

* Reporting

* Monitoring, reviewing and implementing appropriate document control processes in line with quality control procedures

* Preparing monthly status report input on all P&C activities and including a detailed analysis of power consumption and utilization

And any other work-related tasks or duties deemed required and assigned by the line manager.

1. Define project goals, objectives, and deliverables to align with organizational priorities.

2. Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.

3. Assemble and lead project teams, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.

4. Delegate tasks based on team members' skills and monitor their progress.

5. Manage project budgets, track expenses, and ensure financial accountability.

6. Identify potential risks, create mitigation strategies, and implement contingency plans.

7. Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, providing updates and addressing concerns.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation. Oversee the execution to ensure it aligns with initial plans.

• Monitor project timelines and budgets, adjusting as necessary to keep the project on track.

• Monitor the performance of team members, provide feedback, and implement corrective actions as needed.

• Oversee the recruitment and training of project staff, ensuring they are qualified and equipped for their roles.

• Ensure installation is carried out as per construction drawings.

• Minimum 5 years relevant experience in the Construction Industry.

• Good knowledge of Singapore Building and Construction safety regulations.

• All applications to be strictly via emails.

• Assist, manage and review Project Management Plan to monitor all aspects of project including progress, cost management (i.e. Claims & VO verification and procurement negotiation), quality, safety, human resource, environmental and etc.
• Assist Project Director and Project Manager in conceptualizing and executing project schedule, cost, procurement and quality management of project.
• Assist, manage and review project management tool and produce reports to monitor progress of project and identify project critical path.
• Assist in tracking of Architectural Instructions issued and counter propose if necessary.
• Tracks, Interpret and Solve any Drawings discrepancies (RFI) between all Trades.
• Management of project staffs and assists them in fulfilling their potential and beyond.
• Monitoring and ensuring sub-contractors of different trades are able to proceed with their works on site.
• Checking and monitoring wastage of materials on site to ensure no unnecessary wastage of materials.
• Assist PM to chair various committee meetings such as weekly sub-contractors’ coordination meeting, safety committee meeting and etc.
• Leads Weekly Technical Meetings with consultants and client representatives to resolve issues between Architectural, Structural and M&E trades
• Together with PM prepares and presents Biweekly Project Schedule Meeting to Client representatives, consultants and Client QS
• Independently ownership, coordinate & monitor of all ERSS works and relating submissions and requirements between designer and on-site implementation up to dismantling.
• To liaise and coordinate with professional designer for all temporary shoring works and permanent structure works.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, government authorities and sub-contractors to ensure work progression is on schedule and project milestones / deliverables completed according to shareholders’ expectation.
• Hands-on site day-to-day coordination on architectural, structural, M&E, interior design and fit out works, inclusive resolving all RFI
• Acts as liaison between surrounding neighbourhoods (all nearby properties / owners)
• Preparation of official letters to sub-contractors, consultants and client.
• Carry-out structural inspection with RTO/RE
• Other ad-hoc activities as when required by the company.

Operate Tower crane as per the deployment schedule assignedby the Managers/Engineers/Supervisors

· To carry out daily checks of the assigned vehicle toensure safe lifting operations at all time

· Maintain assigned crane in clean and tidy workingcondition

· Perform risk assessment of surroundings and goods to belifted so as to ensure that the lifting operations can be carried out safely

Responsibilities:

• Review and interpret design drawings, specifications, and construction documentation.
• Supervise and monitor site activities to ensure compliance with project specifications, quality standards, and safety requirements.
• Ensure that the overall construction activities, details are coordinated in compliance with client’s and authorities’ requirement
• Assist in construction sequencing, method statements, and planning of temporary works.
• Conduct site inspections, quality audits, and progress monitoring; report findings to management.
• Setting goals and targets to ensure that the conflicts and discrepancies within and amongst disciplines are resolved timely for construction on site.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers and site staff for effective project execution.

• Support cost control by reviewing material usage, workmanship, and variation claims.
• Attend project meetings to provide technical inputs for problem-solving and decision-making.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architecture.
• Minimum 8 years of engineering experience with Degree in Civil Engineering recognized by the PE Board or qualification acceptable to the Commissioner of Building Control as eligible for application as a Resident Engineer or recognized Degree in the relevant field subject to the acceptance of the Engineer, and at least 5 years of experience in the construction supervision for projects of similar scale, complexity and nature of work.
• Candidate must be able to work 6 days and shift works (when required)

*Job Description & Requirements*

We’re Hiring: Workplace Safety and health Officer #Jurong Island

Start Date: Immediate

*Job Description: *

· To assist Safety Manager on all safety, health, environmental, and welfare matters, to ensure the Project complies with its statutory obligations, safety requirements, and aerodrome safety standards.

· To be responsible for health, safety, and environmental control, and to assist Safety Manager to ensure that all works adhere to the procedures and instructions.

· To assist Safety Manager in liaising and co-ordinate with stakeholders, authorities and agencies and other Consultants employed by Developer.

· To put up daily situation reports.

· Ensure risk assessment and safe working procedures are correctly executed on-site.

· To conduct daily health, safety, and environmental inspections, prepare reports and follow up with Project Safety Team / Contractors for closure.

· To carry out investigations into all accidents and near-miss incidents and to record the findings on the relevant forms.

· Wear appropriate personal protective clothing/equipment and observe all safety requirements/procedures.

· To implement and monitor appropriate safety measures in accordance with the Workplace Health and Safety Act and Safety Management System.

· To highlight areas where training/certification is required to meet the standards imposed by Legislation, Approved Codes of Practice, or H.S.E. guidance

Job Requirement:

· At least 3 years relevant experience in the construction industry preferably 2 years with the developer/main contractor.

· Must be a registered Workplace Safety and Health Officer with MOM.

· Has developed a Risk Management Implementation Plan (bizSAFE Level 2) or equivalent

• Completion of a post-secondary education construction training program.
• Related Certificae in Construction Management, Construction Science, Civil Engineering or related field is preferred.
• Proven experience working as a Site Supervisor.
• CPR and first aid certifications.
• Sound knowledge of building codes and construction safety regulations.
• Working knowledge of construction tools and equipment.
• Outstanding leadership skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Communication in English and Mandarin ( In order to liaisewith Chinese speaking associates

- Prepare of tender documents, cost planning control andbudget estimation

- Prepare, review and revise contract terms and conditions

- Preparing, negotiating and analysis costs for tenders andcontracts

- Prepare progress claims, variation claims and finalaccounts

- Liaise with main contractors, sub-contractors, suppliers& other parties involve in the project

- Prepare awards of contracts, bills of quantities and othercontract related documents

- Take-off quantity and project cost estimation

- Update the monthly cost along with the project team

- All other related QS Job.

- Min 3-5 years of construction Quantity Surveyor experiencefor civil/structural project

- Communication in English and Mandarin (In order to liaisewith Chinese speaking associate)

- Coordinates all training activities, which includes courseregistration, training review, update training record etc.

- Application an allocation of foreign worker PA and MYE

- Manage foreign worker accommodation

- Handling foreign worker disciplinary issues and grievances

- Foreign worker insurance claim for WIC/H&S

- Foreign worker immigration bond

- Foreign worker tax clearance

- ISO Audit & BCA licensing

- MOM matters and survey

- Apply and process government grants

- Foreign worker related matters

- At least 3 year experiences in the construction company

- Communication in English and Mandarin ( In order to liaisewith Chinese speaking associate

1) at least two years working experience for Plumbing and Sanitary works

2) Can provide shopdrawings / As-built drawing using CAD ,

3) BIM/ Revit is preferred

4) Submit working programme /schedule

5) Co-ordinate with Maincon / Subcon for site works and drawings

6) Attend site meeting and consutltant meeting

7) Report Progress to HQ

Preparing statutory accounts.

- Ensuring Dairy payments, amounts and records are correct.

- Working with spreadsheets, sales and purchase ledgers andjournals.

- Recording and filing cash transactions.

- Controlling credit and chasing debt.

- Invoice processing and filing.

- Processing expense requests for the accountant to approve.

- Bank reconciliation.

- Liaising with third party providers, clients andsuppliers.

- Updating and maintaining procedural documentation.

- Support duties related to accounts payable and accountsreceivable functions

- Assist with preparation of financial and statisticalstatements and report

- Communication in English and Mandarin (Inorder to liaise with Chinese speaking associate)

Responsibilities:

• Preparing tender/contract documents, working on quantities, taking off measurement, providing cost, estimates and managing cost information
• Prepare and call quotations, including analyzing and evaluating for costing of tender; or negotiate and award of subcontracts for project
• Assist in preparing cost budget, track changes in design/construction work and adjust budget projections accordingly
• Certify and evaluate progress work done, includes contract administration for variations for both subcontract and main contract works
• Preparation and submission of monthly valuations for progress claim
• Monitoring and follow-up on the payment response from client until receipt and submission of invoice to clients
• Assist in verifying subcontractor claims, settle contractual disputes and finalization of accounts
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure project success
• Provide advice on contractual matters
• Ensure meticulous assessment of costs for all VO works
• Monitoring and submission of monthly Cash Flow and analysis
• Mentor and supervise junior quantity surveyors

Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Building / Civil Engineering/Quantity Surveying or equivalent
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in construction sector
• Good Negotiating Skills
• Must be meticulous with positive work attitude
• Committed, analytical and able to meet tight scheduled duties assigned
• Independent and a good team player

Statement Of Purpose (Overall Purpose of Job)

To provide administrative supports in Human Resource (HR) department, including assistance in recruitment, employee training & development, payroll administration as well as internal & external audit.

Major Duties & Responsibilities

(A) Specific :

• Provide administrative supports in recruitment process such as job posting, candidate sourcing, resume screening, and interview coordination.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and confidential employee personal file (P-File) and documentation.
• Assist in the preparation and administration of general worker payroll matters.
• Assist in employee letters preparation and update employee personal particular as required.
• Assist in creating PayAdvisorMobile (PAM) system user accounts for general workers.
• Support the administration of the Quarterly Employee Climate Survey.
• Provide administrative supports for the full employee training and development process (internal and external training programs), including coordination, training provider sourcing, follow-up on certificates and required forms, and preparation of related reports.
• Provide administrative support for the internal and external audits, including document preparation.

(B) General :

• Provide data-entry supports and documents preparation as requested.
• Handle general administrative duties within the HR department.
• Other HR related administrative works assigned.

(C) Safety :

• Follow the Company safety procedures, rules and regulations and eliminate or reduce hazard at the work place.

Job Requirements

(A) Education, Qualifications & Special Training :

• "O" Level with credits in English and Mathematics or equivalent.
• Job holder without the above qualification but with relevant experience would be considered.

(B) Knowledge & Skills :

• Experience in payroll processing and administration is an advantage.
• High level of accuracy and strong attention to numerical details.
• Good interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Good in planning and coordinating skills.
• Service-oriented with good interpersonal skills.
• PC literate and Knowledge in MS Office.

(C) Experience :

• Preferably at least 1 year of relevant working experience.
• Candidate without relevant experience may be considered, on-job-training will be provided.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in pre/post contract administration, the preparation of tender documentation and pricing.
• Prepare and assist in monitoring the progress claims and payments.
• Perform cost planning and cost control.
• Preparation of monthly valuations for progress payments, assist in verifying subcontractor claims.
• Settle contractual disputes and prepare final accounts.
• In charge of material takeoff, cost & estimate of projects
• Overall responsible in providing detailed, requirement and working drawings
• Ensure compliance of drawings with regulatory specifications
• Other adhoc duties assigned from time to time

Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Building / Civil Engineering/Quantity Surveying or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 to 3 years of relevant experience.
• Good Negotiating Skills
• Must be meticulous with positive work attitude
• Committed, analytical and able to meet tight scheduled duties assigned
• Independent and a good team player

• Attend site survey/visit with contractors
• Prepare project documentation (MOS, RA, SWP, permits…)
• Coordinate deliveries to site
• Coordinate site activities with contractors
• Supervise work by contractors
• Maintain safe working environment onsite
• Ensure good housekeeping onsite
• Manage and track work schedule
• Communicate with internal and external parties to ensure smooth project implementation.
• Carry out daily site operations and lead a team of construction workers
• Plan and manage team goals, project schedules and new information
• Participate in site meetings and propose improvements if necessary

Requirements:

• Diploma in Civil Engineering or relevant field
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in construction industry
• Applicants should have certification in Supervise Construction Work for WSH (formerly known as BCSS), Work at the Height

·      •       Good Pay + Good allowance + Good Bonus

·      •       Interested candidates please send anupdated Resume / CV in Ms Word format to lilian@recruitflash.com or WhatsApp’syour resume to 98332779 ( no Calls)

·      •       Consultant in-charge : Quah Li Lian(Lilian) ( Registration No: R1983286 )

Responsibilities:

• Manage and maintain company servers and email accounts (including setting up email signatures)
• Monitor company CCTV systems and GPS tracking (for lorries and excavators)
• Handle company IT hardware and software
• Handle system updates, backups, security checks, and maintenance
• Troubleshoot problems and coordinate with vendors when needed
• Manage the purchase and rental of company copier machines
• Scan and rename invoices
• Prepare transmittal/return forms for IT items for new or resigned staff, and set up thumbprint access
• Collect newspapers and letters
• Perform 3-way matching and submit to Admin and Purchasing for processing
• Any other adhoc duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field
• Minimum 3–5 years of relevant working experience
• Good hands-on experience in Windows environments,networking, and firewall administration
• Good communication and problem-solving skills
• A team player who is also able to work independently