A quantity surveyor is one of the best professionals who combines engineering expertise and financial management. Construction projects grow smoothly if the budget is allocated accurately. This is possible when quantity surveyors properly judge project drawings and quantify required materials. However, everything must be according to the local building codes. Otherwise, a little issue can derail the whole project.
If you are planning to start a construction project, then do not leave your budget-related things on chances. It is a must to get expert guidance! A reliable Construction Estimating Company can assist you in completing the projects under budget and timelines. So, do not take risks and move on with your projects with expert help.
DIVE IN TO KNOW ABOUT THE ROLE OF A QUANTITY SURVEYOR AND HOW TO BECOME ONE!
What does a quantity surveyor do?
A quantity surveyor is like your budget manager. These experts are responsible for estimating the construction expenses. They have to make sure that the project stays within budget. These cost consultants can help contractors to manage all the financial aspects of the project. They are responsible for:
- They have to consult with the clients to understand the project requirements.
- These experts read the project proposals to prepare detailed cost estimates.
- The Construction Cost Estimation must be according to the local current material and labour costs.
- Their job also includes providing estimates on the basis of accurate measurements mentioned in the project plans.
- They are also responsible to source materials and preparing essential documents like bills of quantities.
- Quantities surveyors also monitored the ongoing expenses during the project.
- They have to coordinate with the builders, architects, and engineers to prevent confusion.
- These experts also document and apply different strategies for design changes.
- Communication is also one of the most important aspects that cannot be neglected.
- They make sure that Quantities Takeoff is according to the project specifications.
Essential Skills for Success
The success depends on the skills of the quantity surveyors. That is why they have to combine technical knowledge and soft skills to generate accurate results. The most important job of this professional is to make accurate decisions for proposals. One misstep can lead to the loss of profitable contracts.
So, a reliable quantity surveyor is not just to analyse the cost, but also must have other skills to make the right decisions.
If we talk about the modern digital construction industry, then technical expertise is the most important part of the process. Now, the experts need knowledge of advanced estimating and takeoff tools. It includes several, but some of them are:
- CostX
- Bluebeam Revu
- Cubit Pro,
- 5D BIM
- Revit
- Navisworks
- PlanSwift and others
Educational requirement
University Degree
Getting a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or construction management is important. It will help you to polish your accounting and other abilities.
Postgraduate Programs
The master’s degree in construction cost management can help you in career advancement.
Internships
Internships are one of the best ways to grow as a beginner in the field. So, get practical experience even with low salaries.
Alternative Path
You can also build your experience through support roles. You can work as a technical surveyor part-time.
Keep it in mind that you have to be qualified for all the requirements of any Quantity surveyor job description. For that, education is a must! You cannot skip it, so start focusing now on education. After that, your focus must be on getting practical experience in the field!
Necessary Certifications
Quantity surveying involves the combination of education and recognised professional certifications. This helps to build a reliable image in the industry.
Common certifications include:
- RICS – Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS / FRICS)
- ICMA – Institute of Cost and Management Accountants
- PQSP – Pakistan Quantity Surveyors Association Certification and others
Career Opportunities
Junior Role
It is a beginner-level job that supports senior teams in cost management, etc.
Mid Role
These experts manage small to medium-sized projects. They prepare cost estimates and write reports.
Senior Role
A senior quantity surveyor works on large-scale projects. They are responsible for managing cost planning and handling complex contract matters.
Manager Role
These are the leaders of the team who manage everything and make important decisions.
Salary Expectations
The average quantity surveyor salary is $98,006 per year in the United States. It is based on experience, location, and other important things.
The beginner’s average salary is $52,000 annually. But when the experience starts to increase, it also increases the salary per year.
Experienced quantity surveyors can earn an average salary of $92,000 per year. Seniors earn even more than this figure.
Is Quantity Surveying Right for You?
If you are interested in the numbers, then a career as a quantity surveyor is a good one for you. It depends on your interest and problem-solving skills. Your interest can help you in learning complex things easily.
Undoubtedly, this job is associated with various risks. Because you have to manage the client’s construction project under their allocated budget. There is a lot of pressure on quantity surveyors. So, you have to deal with it and provide reliable outcomes. You will have to fulfil all the duties and responsibilities without any mistakes.
However, success requires technical knowledge but also intelligence to make the right decisions. If you think you are competitive for this, then go with it!
Conclusion
A Quantity surveyor needs to manage everything monthly from the beginning. They have to be smart to learn different skills. It will help them to become proficient in their field. The construction industry is growing every year. This directly impacts the role of a quantity surveyor. So, with the right combination of education, experience, and skills. You can become a reliable consultant for your clients.