Quantity Surveyor

The majority of construction and engineering projects are massive in scope which require significant sums of funds. Naturally, a customer or contractor would like the best quality at the lowest cost and for this they employ people known as quantity surveyors. Quantity surveyors are, in essence the financial manager of an engineering project of a significant size. He is responsible for maximizing the value of the project to the client by achieving the most advantageous balance between price and high quality. They may also be referred to as commercial managers or construction/engineering cost consultants.

A quantity surveyor is involved in an undertaking from the beginning, working with clients and contractors throughout the contract process, and also engaging in a preliminary cost analysis. Once this is completed and work commences the quantity surveyor maintains a continuous monitoring of the project and is always looking for ways to enhance the value of investment by preparing periodic reports on profitability and staying up-to-date with the changes in the status of the contract; any modifications and changes that could be made are reported, analyzed, and then implemented if needed. In many instances the quantity surveyor also assists in the purchase of materials and collaborate directly with (and occasionally employ) the subcontractors needed. They can also offer guidance and support for different tasks after the conclusion of the project, if any further modifications are required.

The job as a quantity surveyor usually requires a degree from a college with a focus on finance or engineering. While candidates are encouraged to seek accreditation from an official source but those who do not have an experience in technical surveying aren't disqualified as long as they possess the required education and experience.

As a Quantity Surveyor with 6-9 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

• Managing cost estimates, budgets, and financial reports for construction projects. Prepare and analyze detailed cost estimates for materials, labor, and equipment.
• Conducting risk assessments and providing advice on cost control measures. Identify and mitigate potential financial risks to ensure the project stays within budget.
• Procuring materials and services, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier relationships. Source cost-effective suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Overseeing progress payments, variations, and final accounts.

For a Quantity Surveyor job role, the following qualifications are required:

• In-depth understanding of construction and engineering principles to accurately estimate project costs and quantities of materials.
• Proficiency in using quantity surveying software and tools to perform cost analysis, prepare budgets, and generate reports.
• Strong knowledge of industry regulations and standards to ensure compliance during project planning, execution, and completion.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills to liaise with clients, suppliers, and contractors, resolving pricing discrepancies and managing contracts effectively.

The role of a Quantity Surveyor is crucial in ensuring accurate cost estimation and efficient project management. For professionals with 6-9 years of experience in the UK construction industry, several alternative roles are available to explore. Here are following options to consider:

• Project Manager: A role that involves overseeing all aspects of project execution, including planning, scheduling, and budget control.
• Construction Estimator: A position focused on evaluating project costs, analyzing bids, and preparing accurate estimates for construction projects.
• Cost Consultant: A role that involves providing expert advice on cost management, value engineering, and risk analysis to help clients optimize their construction budgets.
• Contract Administrator: A position focused on managing contracts, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions, and resolving any contractual disputes.

The role of Quantity Surveyor in the United Kingdom is expected to show significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, there is a positive trend in the demand for Quantity Surveyors. The employment opportunities for this position are projected to increase in the future. With the construction industry booming and infrastructure development on the rise, there will be a high demand for Quantity Surveyors to manage the cost and contractual aspects of projects. The future looks promising for aspiring Quantity Surveyors in the UK, with ample opportunities for career growth.