A quantity surveyor (QS) is a professional working within the construction industry who is responsible for measuring, procuring, and managing the construction process from start to finish.
An experienced quantity surveyor also provides advice on legal aspects of construction contracts and project finance.
The role of a quantity surveyor has evolved over time, but the core function remains the same: to protect the interests of the client or employer by ensuring that the project is delivered on time, within budget and to the required quality standards.
What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?
A quantity surveyor’s duties vary depending on the type and size of the project, but generally include:
- Measuring and quantifying the work to be carried out
- Preparing cost estimates and budgets
- Procuring materials, plant and labour
- Negotiating and agreeing on contracts with suppliers and sub-contractors
- Managing variation orders (i.e. changes to the scope of work)
- Monitoring project progress and costs against the budget
- Preparing interim and final accounts
- Providing advice on legal aspects of construction contracts
- Advising on tax implications of construction projects.
Quantity surveyors and conveyancers usually work office hours, Monday to Friday, although some may be required to work weekends or evenings to attend site meetings or resolve issues as they arise.
Some quantity surveyors are employed by construction firms, while others work as consultants, providing services to a range of clients.
Qualifications and Training
There is no set route into quantity surveying, but most quantity surveyors have a degree in a relevant subject such as construction management, engineering, architecture, or business.
Experience working in the construction industry – either on-site or in an office environment – is also highly desirable.
Many quantity surveyors are members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which offers a professional qualification in quantity surveying. To become a chartered quantity surveyor with the RICS, candidates must complete an accredited degree programme and pass a professional assessment interview.
Career Paths and Progression
With experience, quantity surveyors can progress to senior positions such as associate director or partner in a consultancy, or construction manager or project director in a construction firm.
Some quantity surveyors go on to set up their own practices.
Quantity surveyors with experience working on international projects may also choose to work overseas, either for a UK-based company with operations abroad or for a local firm.
With further training and experience, quantity surveyors can move into related roles such as project manager, commercial manager or contract manager.
Conclusion
Quantity surveying is a highly skilled and technical profession that plays an important role in the successful delivery of construction projects.
If you’re interested in a career in quantity surveying, you will need to have a degree in a relevant subject, as well as experience working in the construction industry. Quantity surveyors can expect to earn a competitive salary and enjoy good career prospects.