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Quantity Surveyor Assistant: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

What is a Quantity Surveyor Assistant?

A Quantity Surveyor Assistant works alongside a Chartered Surveyor to help measure, manage, and evaluate properties and infrastructure projects in the UK. This role provides an opportunity to learn the skills necessary for a future career in surveying while gaining hands-on experience with various types of land, resources, and structures.

How do I become a Quantity Surveyor Assistant?

A Quantity Surveyor Assistant works alongside a Chartered Surveyor to help measure, manage, and evaluate properties and infrastructure projects in the UK. This role provides an opportunity to learn the skills necessary for a future career in surveying while gaining hands-on experience with various types of land, resources, and structures.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Quantity Surveyor Assistant?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Quantity Surveyor Assistant

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Strong numerical and analytical skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Knowledge of construction industry and building regulations
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software
  • Time management and organizational skills
  • Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Understanding of project management principles
  • Commercial awareness and negotiation 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 Assistant
Quantity Surveyor
Senior Quantity Surveyor
Director of Quantity Surveying
Construction Project Manager
Construction Director
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Estimator
Senior Estimator
Estimating Manager
Business Development Manager
Cost Consultant
Senior Cost Consultant
Associate Director - Cost Management
Contract Administrator
Contracts Manager
Claims Consultant

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become an assistant quantity surveyor?

To become an assistant quantity surveyor in the UK, you will usually need a degree in quantity surveying or commercial management accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). If your undergraduate degree is in a different subject, you can take a RICS-accredited postgraduate conversion course.

How long does it take to become an assistant quantity surveyor?

It typically takes 2-3 years of working as an Assistant/Trainee Quantity Surveyor to be promoted to an intermediate or Projects QS position in the UK.

What does an assistant quantity surveyor do?

An assistant quantity surveyor is responsible for managing expenses and cost estimations during construction projects. They communicate with accounting and construction teams to ensure work stays within established budgets.

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