To become a quantity surveyor in this competitive and demanding industry, you need to understand all about it. First, do not confuse this profession with an estimator. Because the duty of the estimator is totally different. These posts may overlap but not the same. Most importantly, both roles are important to the financial success of construction projects. They serve different purposes at different project phases. Understanding these differences is important. It helps in considering a career in construction management.
Both of these jobs are used for construction estimating services, which have good salaries after some years. With the increase in construction projects and complexity of the projects, the demand for a quantity surveyor and an estimator is also growing.
READ OUR BLOG TO UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A QUANTITY SURVEYOR VS ESTIMATOR!
Understanding the Core Distinction
The responsibilities of both an estimator and a quantity surveyor deal with numbers and analysing project drawings. They make sure that the projects finish within budget. Plus, they also have to apply different strategies to complete them within the timelines
Estimators are responsible for handling the cost estimation process before the construction begins. A quantity surveyor has to monitor the project until completion.
Estimators price the job to win it, while Quantity Surveyors manage it to ensure it’s built within the agreed budget.
The Role of an Estimator
The main responsibilities of an estimator start with analysing the project plans. Plus, they assist contractors in winning construction bids. Their duties include the following:
- Analyzing project plans and specifications to understand the project
- Breaking down projects into smaller parts. This helps to estimate quantities of materials, etc.
- Researching current market prices
- Obtaining prices from suppliers
- Preparing detailed cost breakdowns
- Using estimating software
- Working with project managers, engineers, and architects
The Role of a Quantity Surveyor
Quantity Surveyors have a little more responsibility throughout the project. They are the main financial guide who covers expenses from initial planning to the final. Their duties include:
- Managing all financial aspects of construction projects from inception to completion
- Managing project budgets
- Creating bills of quantities
- Conducting regular site visits
- Preparing payment certificates
- managing contractor payments
- Administering construction contracts
- handling contractual issues
- Resolving any financial disagreements
- Providing advice on legal matters
- Performing value engineering for saving budget
Educational Requirements
The path to becoming a Quantity Surveyor or Certified Estimator is different in terms of time investment and educational requirements.
It takes one to 2 years to become an estimator whereas to become a quantity surveyor it takes 4 to 6 years.
In many countries, quantities surveyor need a university degree in
- Quantity surveying
- Construction management
To enhance their overall skills, individuals also take professional certifications through organizations such as:
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS)
There are many beginner-level estimators who entered the field with technical diplomas. They also have internship experience.
Career Progression for Quantity Surveyors
- Entry Level: Graduate QS or Assistant QS helping with cost planning and BoQ preparation
- Intermediate: QS managing project sections and preparing valuations
- Senior: Senior Quantity Surveyor leading projects and managing disputes
- Advanced: Commercial Manager overseeing multiple projects
- Executive: Project Director or Company Director providing strategic financial leadership
Career Progression for Estimators
- Entry Level: Junior Estimator or Estimating Technician
- Intermediate: Estimator handling independent bids
- Senior: Senior Estimator managing complex tenders
Salary and Compensation
As quantity surveyors have more responsibilities, their salaries are higher than those of an estimator. The average salary is $71,500 annually.
On the other hand, the salary of an estimator is $68,000 annually.
These figures are not exact because they can be different depending on the experience and other factors!
Project Types and Work Environments
Estimators work on smaller or medium-sized projects. It may include residential and commercial buildings. They work remotely and in an office environment. Moreover, these experts use past data and advanced software to predict the results accurately.
Quantity Surveyors work on large projects such as hospitals, warehouses, etc. Their working environment depends on the type of project. Plus, these experts have to manage documentation!
Making Your Career Choice
The choice between these two professions depends on your interests. If you want to work in the early stages of the project and you like to analyze project cost, then you must choose to become an estimator. It also includes material takeoff in which the project elements are measured and counted.
If you like to enjoy managing complex matters, then choose a quantity surveyor role!
Final Thoughts!
Both jobs are favourable in this demanding industry. With the increase in the construction of buildings, the demands of quantity surveyors and estimators is also increasing. The choice depends on your interest. You will be considered an important person in making sure that the construction projects are financially okay.