Categories: Career

As another wave of graduates enter the workforce, you are probably thinking about your own potential career path. While construction professions like project management often grab the limelight, We feel there’s a crucial role within the industry that often goes overlooked by those choosing what field to enter: Quantity Surveying.

What is a Quantity Surveyor?

Unlike Project Managers, who oversee the overall project timeline and resources, Quantity Surveyors are the financial guardians of a project. They are responsible for calculating the cost of construction works, preparing estimates, and managing the commercial aspects of a project. It's a role that combines technical expertise with strong business acumen.

Quantity Surveyors are the cornerstone in ensuring a project is delivered within budget without compromising quality. Their work involves a deep understanding of construction materials, labour costs, and market trends. They collaborate closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to provide accurate cost assessments throughout the project lifecycle. From initial feasibility studies to final account settlement, Quantity Surveyors play a critical role in the financial success of a construction endeavour.

Building a Sustainable Future:

The world desperately needs cleaner infrastructure and new methods of work to combat climate change. Quantity Surveying professionals play a critical role in achieving this by:

• Optimising resource use: From material selection to minimising waste, Quantity Surveyors ensure projects minimise their environmental footprint.

• Cost-effective sustainability: They help implement innovative construction methods that are not only green but also cost-efficient.

• Life-cycle costing: Think beyond initial construction. Quantity Surveyors consider the long-term impact of materials and design choices on energy consumption and maintenance costs.

Quantity Surveying and Tech

A career in quantity surveying combines business knowledge with technology skills. You can make a real difference in construction while using modern digital tools. As construction changes, the need for skilled quantity surveyors will grow.

So, Why Choose Quantity Surveying?

Skills Shortage: The construction industry is facing a significant skills shortage, particularly in the Quantity Surveying realm. This means there's a high demand for skilled professionals, offering excellent job prospects for graduates. We’ve built our whole business around securing top talent for clients in the industry. That’s how desirable it is.

Lucrative Career Path: Quantity Surveyors play a pivotal role in the success of any construction project. Their expertise in cost management is invaluable, making it a financially rewarding career and something that makes you feel proud.

Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: The role requires strong analytical skills to assess costs, identify potential risks, and develop strategies to manage them.

Diverse Projects: Quantity Surveyors work on a variety of projects, from residential tower blocks to wind farms, from large-scale infrastructure to small-scale housing estates. This diversity ensures that no two days are the same. You get to decide what area you enjoy and specialise in it.

Sustainability: as a Quantity Surveyor you can be at the forefront of using innovative ways to work, promote greener and cleaner projects, and reduce harm to the environment

There are many different paths to becoming a Quantity Surveyor. We published an article recently that delves into the pros and cons of these. So, if you have a head for numbers, enjoy problem-solving, and are interested in the business side of construction, Quantity Surveying could be the perfect career path for you. It's a field with a promising future, and now is the ideal time to explore this prospective career.