Becoming a Good Quantity Surveyor

A quantity surveyor plays a very important role in every construction project. This is why this job is in demand and the qualifications and requirements to get the job are quite stringent. The person who gets the job needs to be there from the planning stages until the project is completed. To be a good at this job, you should meet the basic qualifications and have the qualities needed to do the job. You must also be able to perform your responsibilities well and exceed expectations

What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?

The job of a quantity surveyor entails a lot of financial planning. You would have to make sure that the project meets regulations while staying within budget. This means you would have to conduct feasibility studies and estimate costs. You would also need to draw up and supervise bids made by subcontractors and suppliers. You should also be a liaison between the different departments. This would help avoid miscommunications and less mistakes keeps costs to a minimum. You would need to provide clients with progress reports, so that means you must monitor every stage of the project to be able to keep the costs in line and be able to adjust to any changes caused by unavoidable circumstances. Finally, you must also be able to advise your clients about legal and contractual matters so that things run smoothly.

What Does It Take to Be a Quantity Surveyor?

Most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree holder for the job of a quantity surveyor. It is an advantage if you majored in Civil Engineering or Architecture. A professional license is also a plus. A post graduate degree is an advantage, but not necessary. Experience in construction and other jobs of that nature can also help you get the job. You should also have some background in finance and be knowledgeable in legal matters pertaining to the construction industry. Since you will be dealing with figures, good math and analytical skills will be very helpful. Good communication skills are also a must. You will be dealing with clients, workers, subcontractors and suppliers and you must be able to talk to them about the different aspects of the project. Another skill one must possess to do this job well is the ability to think out of the box. Sometimes, you would need to find creative solutions to problems while staying within legal boundaries. 

Being good at this job takes years of experience both on the job or doing related work. To be a good quantity surveyor, you must be diligent and be open to learning as you go along.