Is becoming a quantity surveyor is the right career for you?
A quantity surveyor plays a vital role in the construction industry by managing costs, contracts, and budgets throughout the entire building process. This career offers many challenges and opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, it is not for everyone, and it is important to understand the responsibilities and requirements before making a decision to pursue this profession.
Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor
A quantity surveyor is responsible for ensuring that the cost of a construction project is within budget, and that the project is completed on time and within quality standards. This requires a strong understanding of the building process, construction materials, and labor costs. The main responsibilities of a quantity surveyor include:
Cost Management: The quantity surveyor is responsible for estimating the cost of the project and ensuring that it remains within budget throughout the entire building process.
Contract Administration: The quantity surveyor must ensure that the contract between the contractor and the client is properly executed and that all parties are aware of their obligations.
Budgeting and Financial Planning: The quantity surveyor must be able to prepare budgets and financial plans for the project and ensure that these are adhered to throughout the project.
Procurement: The quantity surveyor must be able to source the best materials and labor at the most competitive prices to ensure that the project remains within budget.
Risk Management: The quantity surveyor must be able to identify and manage potential risks associated with the project to minimize the impact on the budget and schedule.
Requirements for a Quantity Surveyor
To become a successful quantity surveyor, you will need to have a strong understanding of the construction industry and the building process. Additionally, you will need to have excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills. The following are the key requirements for becoming a quantity surveyor:
Education: A degree in quantity surveying, construction management, or a related field is required for this career. Many universities offer specific courses in quantity surveying that can provide the knowledge and skills required to enter this profession.
Professional Qualification: After obtaining a degree, you will need to obtain a professional qualification from a recognized organization such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Work Experience: Work experience is crucial in this field as it allows you to gain hands-on experience in the construction industry. Many employers prefer candidates with relevant work experience.
Skills: A quantity surveyor must have strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Additionally, a strong understanding of mathematical concepts and financial management is essential for success in this role.
Benefits of a Career as a Quantity Surveyor
A career as a quantity surveyor offers many benefits, including job stability, personal and professional growth, and a high salary. Additionally, this career offers many opportunities for advancement, as quantity surveyors can progress to become project managers, construction managers, or consultants.
Job Stability: The construction industry is a stable and growing industry, which provides job stability and security for quantity surveyors.
Personal and Professional Growth: A career as a quantity surveyor offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth, as you will be working on a variety of projects and will have the opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge.
High Salary: Quantity surveyors typically earn a high salary, with the average salary for a quantity surveyor in the United States being around $80,000 per year, Ireland €60,000 and the UK £ 50, 000
