• Quantity Surveyor Job Description

    A quantity surveyor is a person whose job is to manage all costs relating to a construction project. S/he manages the finances of a construction project from its earliest stages up through its completion. Quantity surveyors are also known as cost analysts, cost planners, cost managers, estimators, or construction economists.

    A quantity surveyor should be well organized, trustworthy, investigative, interpretative, and good at planning, calculating and accounting. They should be accurate in all aspects of their work and able to read and interpret construction plans. They should also be able to communicate effectively and relate to a wide range of people.

  • What does a Quantity Surveyor do?

    Quantity surveyors may do some or all of the following:

    • study construction project plans from architects and designers
    • carry out feasibility studies to know whether the construction project is possible and to estimate its cost
    • prepare schedules of materials for use in the project
    • negotiate material and labor costs
    • visit the construction site to monitor the construction project
    • monitor the project and ensure that the construction meets the required legal and quantity standards
    • coordinate the project to ensure it is on time and within the budget
    • provide advice on contractual claims
    • value the completed work
    • offer advice on property taxation
  • Where does a Quantity Surveyor work?
  • Working Conditions

    Quantity surveyors usually work normal office hours. They work in offices and on sites. They occasionally travel to construction sites to monitor the progress of projects.

  • What is Required to Become a Quantity Surveyor?

    To become a quantity surveyor, you will need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, building technology or a related discipline.

  • Modules

    Just to give you an idea, some of the classes that you’ll be taking in college may include:

    • Mathematics
    • Measurement of building and civil engineering works
    • Bid documentation
    • Construction cost planning and economics
    • Interpretation and administration of construction contracts
    • Quantity surveying research methods
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Quantity surveyors need to have:

    • patience
    • adaptability
    • accuracy
    • dependability
    • integrity
    • good attention to detail
    • good interpersonal skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • good listening and communication skills
    • math and computer skills
    • negotiation skills
    • time management and organizational skills
    • technical skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • the ability to manage finances and work to budgets
    • the ability to work well under pressure
    • knowledge of dispute resolution
    • knowledge of construction methods, materials and costs
    • knowledge of the principles of quantity surveying
    • knowledge of property construction regulations
    • knowledge of project management principles and practices

References

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Alternative Careers
  • Economist
  • Civil Engineer
  • Construction Contractor
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