Overview
What is an Quantity Surveyor?
Quantity Surveyors are responsible for the financial aspects of a project. These construction professionals manage all costs relating to building and civil engineering projects, from initial calculations to final figures. Their knowledge and attention to detail helps keep construction projects on time, within budget and in line with expectations.
The function of quantity surveying is often referred to in the industry with different titles, such as Commercial Managers, Cost Managers and Construction Cost Consultants.
How much do Quantity Surveyors earn?
The salary of a Quantity Surveyor is usually between: £25,000 – £70,000
Skills
What’s required for the role?
- A practical and logical mind
- Analytical skills
- Creativity
- Problem solving
- Strong maths and numeracy skills
- Verbal communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Familiarity with measurement techniques
- Project management skills
- Attention to detail
- Digital literacy
- Leadership and management
- The ability to negotiate
- Administration
- Knowledge of building codes and construction standards
Details
What does a Quantity Surveyor do?
Quantity Surveyors have a wide range of responsibilities in their role, including:
What is the work environment like?
Your specific work environment will depend on the nature of your employer. If you work for a contractor, you will likely be based on the construction project site. If you’re hired by a consultancy, you’ll probably be more office based. However, Quantity Surveyors can cover large geographical areas, and so a valid driver’s licence is usually required.
Quantity Surveyors are employed by architects, local authorities and engineering companies. Many employers contract surveyors, where they will be responsible for the build budget and consultancies who work for the client that wants the project built, managing aspects such as design, tenders and contracts.
Opportunities exist on a global scale for Quantity Surveyors, particularly those with several years post-qualification experience or specialist industry experience.
Opportunities
Is quantity surveying a good career?
Like many professions in the built environment, quantity surveying is in high demand but short of talent. There are a decreasing number of new graduates entering the market which, combined with an aging workforce approaching retirement and the development of new industry practices, will create a wealth of employment opportunities in coming years. This means a career in quantity surveying can provide an element of long-term job security, as well as room for progression and specialisation.
Quantity surveying is often characterised as a stressful yet rewarding profession. As they are trusted with ensuring the outcome of a project in line with a client’s expectations, professionals in this industry will frequently be faced with complex problems to solve and expectations to balance. However, for many this can lead to a rewarding and meaningful career full of variety. What’s more, quantity surveying can give professionals the opportunity to work on a wide range of structures and buildings, and the chance to see the fruits of their labour once the project is completed.
For people who are motivated to take action in the battle against climate change, working in quantity surveying can provide the opportunity to influence the sustainability of a building project and make a positive difference to the environment. A QS can choose sustainable building materials as alternatives to energy-intensive materials like cement and aluminium, and promote sustainability by reducing build times, minimising waste and promoting sustainable construction practices.
Become a quantity surveyor
Who can become a Quantity Surveyor?
Anyone with an interest in quantity surveying can launch a career in this profession. UCEM’s BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying programme is the most sought-after degree at the institution, and thousands of students across the world have already undertaken their studies here and launched a successful career in the sector. Find out about their experiences below:
- Why it’s never too late for a career change: a Q&A with UCEM Programme Leaders Jon Hubert and Nicola Allen
- Championing the student voice: a Q&A with UCEM Student Trustee Ben McManus – University College of Estate Management
- Pursuing a career in a male-dominated industry: a Q&A with UCEM Programme Leader Priti Lodhia
How to become a Quantity Surveyor
To begin your career in the industry, a quantity surveying or commercial management degree accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is often required. Most Quantity Surveyors will work towards professional membership of RICS and/or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Many students will take a postgraduate conversion course after completing a degree in a relevant subject. Some of these include:
- Land studies
- Construction project management
- Geography
- Economics
- Mathematics
Along with obtaining degrees, online CPD courses in relevant subjects can strengthen your employment credentials, such as:
