UK Career Advice

Quantity surveyor: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Quantity surveyor?

As a Quantity Surveyor, you'd be responsible for managing all the cost related aspects of construction projects, from initial calculations to the final figures. You’d work to ensure that projects are completed within their projected budgets.

How do I become a Quantity surveyor?

As a Quantity Surveyor, you'd be responsible for managing all the cost related aspects of construction projects, from initial calculations to the final figures. You’d work to ensure that projects are completed within their projected budgets.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Quantity surveyor?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Quantity surveyor

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Strong numerical and analytical skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Proficiency in using surveying software and technology
  • Effective communication and negotiation skills
  • Ability to interpret and analyze construction plans and specifications
  • Knowledge of building regulations and industry standards
  • Strong project management and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Commercial awareness and financial management skills

Qualifications & Education

  • Possession of an accredited degree, equivalent qualification, and/or postgraduate qualification
  • Successful completion of a probationary training period
  • Successful completion of a professional assessment
  • Meeting entry requirements to professional bodies (which may vary)

Career Path

Quantity surveyor
Construction project manager
Senior project manager
Director of construction
Estimator
Senior estimator
Chief estimator
Cost consultant
Senior cost consultant
Director of cost management
Contract administrator
Senior contract administrator
Contracts manager
Claims consultant
Dispute resolution specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a quantity surveyor a good job?

Yes, being a quantity surveyor is considered a good job in the UK. Quantity surveyors earn high salaries, have opportunities for career progression, and can work in various sectors.

Is it hard to get a job as a quantity surveyor?

It can be competitive to secure a job as a quantity surveyor in the UK. It is recommended to keep an open mind about potential employers, such as consultancies and contractors, and actively search for the best job opportunities.

What is the career path of a quantity surveyor?

The career path of a quantity surveyor in the UK typically consists of three stages: graduate/junior, quantity surveyor/senior quantity surveyor, and managing quantity surveyor/commercial manager.

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