A quantity surveyor (QS) manages all costs relating to building and civil engineering projects. They are involved in a project from pitch to completion and are concerned with doing the best possible job at the best possible price.
Who can I work for?
A QS may work for a client or a contractor, private practice or local authority.
Where and when can I work?
A QS will work in an office or on-site, on new builds and refurbishment projects. Occasional weekend and evening work may be needed to meet deadlines and the days can be long. For those in private practice or with a local government department, the hours can be slightly shorter.
What can I earn?
A QS can expect a starting salary of roughly £17,000 - £25,000. Obtaining chartered status increases salary options. At senior levels you can expect to earn in excess of £50,000 with partners in private practice earning substantially more.
What are the benefits?
Overnight stays or much longer secondments are common and there are now more opportunities abroad for you to see the world. There are also growing opportunities for the self-employed, with more companies making use of agency or freelance staff.
Are there chances of promotion?
With experience you can develop in to strategic roles in value engineering and risk assessment or specialise in areas like contractual disputes. There is also the option to go into project management.
What will I be responsible for?
As a QS, you could be working on anything from a pothole to a project worth £1million. Typical tasks can include preparing tender and contract documents, undertaking costs analysis, performing risk and value management and cost control, looking at commercial risks, allocating work to subcontractors and valuing completed work. You need to have a full understanding of statutory building regulations.
Do I need any experience?
The most obvious route in is to study for a university degree in quantity or building surveying or a construction-related subject, although it is possible to convert an unrelated degree on to a conversion course. Many employers offer graduate trainee schemes and if you're able to get some work experience before you start, it shows commitment.
What attributes are needed?
Employers expect building, managerial and communication skills, along with sound commercial awareness. You'll also need to be enthusiastic and innovative with strong leadership potential. Problem solving is also a must.