Becoming a Quantity Surveyor: Skills and Responsibilities

The construction industry presents a dynamic and challenging work environment where success as a Quantity Surveyor demands hard work and dedication. In this article, we’ll delve into the role of a Quantity Surveyor, the requisite skills, and available career opportunities in this exciting field.

What is a Quantity Surveyor?

A Quantity Surveyor (QS) is essential in the construction industry, managing project costs and ensuring projects are completed within budget and schedule. Collaborating with building contractors, architects, and other professionals, QSs oversee the construction process, from project initiation to completion.

Key skills of a Quantity Surveyor

Successful Quantity Surveyors possess diverse skills, including:

• Technical expertise: Quantity Surveyors require a solid understanding of building materials, processes, and regulations within the construction industry.
• Analytical skills: QSs need to analyze data and make informed decisions regarding the cost and feasibility of building projects.
• Communication skills: Quantity Surveyors must communicate technical information in a way that is easily understood by clients, architects, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Attention to detail: QSs must be meticulous in accounting for all costs.
• Problem-solving skills: QSs must develop creative solutions to resolve issues that arise during the building process.
• Time management skills: QSs must manage their time effectively, ensuring that building projects adhere to a strict schedule.

Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor

A QS’s responsibilities may vary based on project size and scope. However, typical duties include:

• Estimating costs: QSs estimate the costs of building projects, including materials, labour, and other associated costs.
• Preparing tender documents: QSs prepare tender documents to solicit bids from building contractors.
• Analyzing bids: QSs analyze bids from building contractors and recommend which contractor to select.
• Monitoring costs: QSs monitor costs throughout construction, ensuring the project remains within budget.
• Reporting: QSs provide regular reports to clients and other stakeholders, informing them of the project’s progress.

What is the career outlook for Quantity Surveyors?

The construction industry is rapidly growing, and there is a high demand for skilled Quantity Surveyors. The expected salary for a Quantity Surveyor varies depending on experience, with newly trained Quantity Surveyors earning in the region of £25,000 – £35,000, trained Quantity Surveyors with experience making in the area of £35,000 – £45,000, and senior or chartered Quantity Surveyors earning in the region of £45,000 – £65,000.

How do I become a Quantity Surveyor?

You can take several steps, including pursuing a degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management, gaining work experience, joining a professional association, and obtaining professional qualifications.

Some universities and colleges offer courses in Quantity Surveying or related subjects that can help you develop the necessary skills to succeed in this field. Although not all employers require Quantity Surveyors to have degrees, obtaining a degree can enhance your career prospects.

Many Quantity Surveyors start their careers as assistants or trainees, working under the supervision of experienced professionals. This can be an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience and learn the ropes. You can also consider internships or work placements to acquire practical experience and build connections within the industry.

Joining a professional association, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), can help you stay current on industry trends and developments and provide networking opportunities. Becoming a professional association member can also showcase your commitment to the field and enhance your professional reputation.

Quantity Surveyors often obtain professional, post-degree qualifications, such as the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC), which is mandatory to become a chartered Quantity Surveyor.

 Professional qualifications can help you demonstrate your expertise and enhance your career prospects. These are generally only sought by professional quantity surveyors (PQS).

Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a Quantity Surveyor requires diverse skills, including technical expertise, analytical skills, communication skills, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and time management skills. The career outlook for Quantity Surveyors is strong, with a high demand for skilled professionals in the rapidly growing construction industry. Pursuing a degree, gaining work experience, joining a professional association, and obtaining professional qualifications are all steps that can help you achieve your career goals as a Quantity Surveyor.