Quantity Surveying Careers: Opportunities for Graduates
The field of construction is quite massive but yet has a shortage of skilled individuals involved in other aspects of construction asides engineering.
Most Engineers need individuals who are familiar with the management of costs involved in construction.
Although they work with architects and engineers, quantity surveyors focus more on the estimation of building costs and offer advice on the appropriate material to make use of in construction.
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Contents
What is Quantity Surveying?
Quantity surveying involves the estimation of building costs and sourcing for the manpower required for a construction job.
Quantity surveyors make use of their knowledge in cost estimation, risk management, procurement and project management to ensure construction works are properly carried out.
While you need architects, structural engineers and civil engineers to evaluate a building plan, the quantity surveyor works towards making the materials used in production safe for both the environment and its inhabitants.
Industries Where a Quantity Surveyor Can Work
As a Quantity Surveyor, you can work in various positions across the industry as a:
- Quantity surveying consultant
- Contractors
- Site manager
- Project manager
- Urban/Residential surveyor
- Development surveyor
- Site engineer
- Building services consultant
- Consulting civil engineer
- Health and Safety officer(at construction sites)
Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor
As a Quantity Surveyor, you should:
- Have good numerical skills
- Give adequate information on measurements and materials required for construction
- Have good interpersonal communication skills critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Be goal-oriented and have a good eye for details especially in investigating the suitability of materials for projects.
- Good presentation skills
- Written and communication skills
- Project management skills
- Knowledge of IT-related skills
Qualifications to Become a Quantity Surveyor
You can get into quantity surveying with a bachelors degree in quantity surveying or civil engineering with a sub-specialisation in quantity surveying.
You can also further your studies by undertaking postgraduate studies in quantity surveying, commercial management, construction project management and strategic project management.
Work Experience with Quantity Surveying Jobs
Look out for opportunities in supporting roles in construction firms. Professional Health and safety qualifications would also aid your progressing into management.
Joining a relevant professional body would also help you understand some of the work ethics required as a quantity surveyor.
Skills to Include in Your CV for Quantity Surveying Jobs
Important skills to include in your CV includes:
- Document compilation
- Knowledge of procurement processes
- Strong interpersonal skills especially on a team
- Ability to understand technical building designs and materials sourcing
- Excellent knowledge of budget preparation
- Data presentation
- Knowledge of cost-effective processes
- computer literate(in MS Word, Excel)
