The role of a quantity surveyor is essential in the modern construction industry. They are integral to many projects’ success, from estimating costs and managing budgets to controlling finances. This article will examine what quantity surveyor jobs do and how you can become one.
What is a Quantity Surveyor?
A quantity surveyor (QS) is an expert in cost management for construction projects. They use their skills to estimate the materials needed and labor costs involved in completing certain tasks. QSs also oversees the budgeting process for complex building projects and advises saving money without compromising quality or safety standards. As such, they act as a bridge between architects, engineers, and contractors while ensuring that all parties are working towards achieving the same objectives within set timeframes and budgets.
Responsibilities of Quantity Surveyors
The primary responsibility of a QS is to accurately estimate the cost of materials required for construction projects before work begins on site. This involves researching current market prices for different items, such as bricks, mortar, steel beams, etc., so that accurate estimates can be made about how much each component will cost when purchased from suppliers or subcontractors at scale later on down the line. Additionally, QSs are responsible for managing subcontractors’ payments throughout the project — from ordering supplies through to final invoicing — plus any additional services such as scaffolding hire or plant rental, which may be necessary during its course duration for completion on schedule with the minimum disruption possible.
Qualifications Needed For Quantity Surveying Jobs
To become a qualified quantity surveyor jobs, you must have completed either an undergraduate degree program in surveying or civil engineering — both accredited by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) – followed by two years of experience working under supervision with an experienced QS while taking part in vocational training courses offered by RICS-approved establishments like universities or specialist providers like CITB (Construction Industry Training Board). Alternatively, you can become qualified by gaining graduate membership status directly with RICS if you possess sufficient relevant experience without having first gone through the university studies route. However, this would require passing three exams related specifically to the construction industry before being accepted into the professional body’s membership rolls.
Skills Required For Quantity Surveying Jobs
In addition to having academic qualifications related thereto, it’s important that applicants possess certain personality traits that would make them successful at this job type; qualities such as excellent communication skills so they can clearly explain detailed information about building plans/costs etc., strong analytical abilities so they can make decisions about best ways forward quickly plus good organizational skills enabling them efficiently manage multiple tasks concurrently all help create well-rounded professionals who excel within their chosen field.
Job Outlook For Quantity Surveying Professionals
The outlook for qualified quantity surveying professionals looks very positive due to increasing demand from government infrastructure improvement schemes, housing developments, commercial buildings, etc. According To data collated by the Prospects career website, salaries across the UK vary greatly depending on job level & location. Still, they typically range anywhere between £23-40k per annum, giving those entering the profession plenty of opportunities to succeed financially while enjoying many fulfilling aspects associated with helping build a nation’s future structures & landscapes.
All things considered, anyone interested in pursuing a career path within the field should have no problem finding suitable roles given the current high levels of demand combined with an ever-growing list of qualifications/experience requirements employers are now looking out for when recruiting new employees into positions.
