As a Graduate Quantity Surveyor, you can expect when you start in the industry".
As a Graduate Quantity Surveyor, you can expect a challenging and rewarding career in the construction and property development industries. This role is responsible for managing budgets, estimating costs, and ensuring that projects are completed within budget and on time. In this blog, we will take a more detailed look at what you can expect when you start in the industry.
Job Responsibilities:
The primary responsibility of a Graduate Quantity Surveyor is to provide cost estimates for construction projects. This involves analyzing and interpreting technical drawings, tender documents, and specifications to produce accurate cost estimates. You will also be responsible for managing budgets and ensuring that projects are completed within budget and on time. This requires strong analytical and organizational skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with other members of the project team.
As a Graduate Quantity Surveyor, you will also be responsible for managing contracts and subcontracts, monitoring progress, and ensuring that projects are completed on time and to the required quality standards. You may also be involved in procurement, risk management, and dispute resolution. In addition, you may be required to attend site visits to inspect works and provide progress reports to clients and project managers.
Career Progression:
With experience, you may progress to become a Senior Quantity Surveyor, Project Manager, or Commercial Manager. As you gain experience and take on more responsibility, your salary and benefits are likely to increase. In addition, you may have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of the construction industry, such as infrastructure, housing, or commercial development.
Industry:
Graduate Quantity Surveyors typically work in the construction and property development industries. The construction industry is a dynamic and fast-paced environment that requires individuals to be able to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. In addition, you will need to be able to work effectively as part of a team, as well as communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Working Hours:
The working hours for a Graduate Quantity Surveyor can vary depending on the demands of your projects. Standard office hours are typically 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. However, you may be required to work extended hours, including weekends, to meet deadlines or attend site visits. You may also be required to travel to different sites and locations, depending on the projects you are working on.
Remuneration:
The starting salary for a Graduate Quantity Surveyor is typically between £20,000 and £30,000. However, this can vary depending on the location, size, and type of company you work for. With experience, you can expect your salary and benefits to increase, and you may have the opportunity to take on more responsibility and advance in your career.
Skills Required:
To be successful as a Graduate Quantity Surveyor, you will need to have strong numerical, analytical, and communication skills. In addition, you will need to be able to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. You will also need to be able to work effectively as part of a team and communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Other important skills include:
Attention to detail: You will need to be able to analyze and interpret technical drawings, tender documents, and specifications with a high level of accuracy.
Problem solving: You will be responsible for managing budgets, contracts, and subcontracts, and you may need to resolve disputes and manage risks.
Organizational skills: You will need to be able to manage multiple projects at once and ensure that they are completed on time and within budget.
