Do you want to become a Quantity Surveyor? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
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Quantity surveyors, who may be known as commercial managers or cost consultants, deal with the financial side of building and civil engineering projects.
Their role involves managing the costs of a project. Through negotiation, successful quantity surveyors can save large amounts of money for the companies they work for.
The work is generally office based, although the office could be on a construction site. Working hours for site-based surveyors may be from 8am to 6pm. Others may work shorter hours, eg 8.30am to 5.30pm.
Starting salaries are around £21,000 a year. Surveyors at the top of the profession may earn up to £100,000, or more.
Quantity surveyors should:
• have mathematical ability
• be able to communicate clearly, both in speech and writing
• be commercially aware, with an interest in business and finance
• be interested in, and have a good knowledge of, construction.
There are around 25,000 quantity surveyors who are members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The demand for surveyors is strong and there is a shortage of people with the appropriate skills.
Jobs are available throughout the UK. The main employers are:
• building and civil engineering contractors
• consultancies that advise clients on construction costs
• the property divisions of large organisations
• local government and other public sector bodies.
The main route into quantity surveying is by taking a first degree, normally in quantity surveying or a closely related subject. Alternatively, postgraduate courses are available for people with degrees in other subjects.
It is possible to study for a first degree or a postgraduate diploma on a part-time basis whilst gaining practical experience with an employer.
After obtaining a degree or diploma, it is necessary to gain further practical experience before becoming fully qualified. Quantity surveyors also undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
With experience, quantity surveyors may become project managers, move into specialist areas or become self-employed. They can also work overseas.
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