UK Career Advice

Senior Quantity Surveyor: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Senior Quantity Surveyor?

A Senior Quantity Surveyor in the UK is responsible for managing costs and ensuring budgets are adhered to in construction projects. They work to optimise the balance between cost and quality, provide financial advice, prepare bills of quantities, and support with the management of the necessary resources for construction projects.

How do I become a Senior Quantity Surveyor?

A Senior Quantity Surveyor in the UK is responsible for managing costs and ensuring budgets are adhered to in construction projects. They work to optimise the balance between cost and quality, provide financial advice, prepare bills of quantities, and support with the management of the necessary resources for construction projects.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Senior Quantity Surveyor?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Senior Quantity Surveyor

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Strong analytical and numerical skills
  • Proficiency in cost estimation and budgeting
  • Excellent knowledge of construction industry regulations and standards
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications
  • Effective communication and negotiation skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in cost calculations
  • Proficient in using cost estimation software and tools
  • Project management and time management skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities

Qualifications & Education

  • Professional training and membership of an appropriate professional organisation is required for entry into the field of Cost Estimators in the UK
  • To be eligible for professional examinations, candidates must have GCSEs/S grades and A levels/H grades, a BTEC/SQA award, a degree or equivalent qualification
  • Candidates typically undergo a period of probationary training and professional assessment

Career Path

Senior Quantity Surveyor
Construction Project Manager
Construction Director
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of a Construction Company
Estimator
Cost Engineer
Cost Manager
Director of Cost Management
Commercial Manager
Head of Commercial Operations
Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
Contracts Manager
Head of Contracts and Procurement
Director of Contracts and Procurement
Quantity Surveying Consultant
Independent Consultant in Quantity Surveying

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a senior QS?

It takes approximately five years of experience to become a senior quantity surveyor in the UK.

What is the career progression of a Quantity Surveyor?

The career progression of a Quantity Surveyor in the UK typically involves three key stages: graduate/junior, quantity surveyor/senior quantity surveyor, and managing quantity surveyor/commercial manager.

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