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A Quantity Surveyor is a construction professional who manages costs and financial aspects of construction projects. They typically work for contractors, developers, or consulting firms and are responsible for estimating and monitoring project costs, preparing contracts, managing budgets, and advising on procurement and financial strategies. Quantity surveyors require a strong understanding of construction processes, as well as excellent analytical, communication, and negotiation skills. A career as a quantity surveyor can be challenging and rewarding, with opportunities to work on a variety of projects and progress to senior management roles. A degree in quantity surveying or a related field, along with relevant work experience, is typically required to become a quantity surveyor.
Are there different types of quantity surveyors?
There are different types of quantity surveyors, each specializing in a specific area of construction. Some common types of quantity surveyors include:
Cost consultant: focuses on providing cost planning and cost management services to clients throughout the construction process.
Estimator: responsible for providing accurate cost estimates for projects based on the plans, specifications, and scope of work.
Contract administrator: responsible for drafting and managing construction contracts, including resolving disputes and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
The specific job duties and responsibilities of a quantity surveyor can vary depending on their specialization and the type of construction project they are working on.
Are there any accredited bodies in the UK for quantity surveyors?
There are several accredited bodies in the UK for quantity surveyors. Some of the main ones include:
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): This is a global professional body that sets and enforces standards in the land, property, and construction sectors. They offer a range of qualifications and training courses for quantity surveyors, as well as professional accreditation and support throughout their career.
Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB): This is another professional body that supports the construction industry, providing qualifications, training, and networking opportunities for quantity surveyors and other construction professionals.
Association of Cost Engineers (ACostE): This is a professional body that focuses on cost engineering, providing training, certification, and support for quantity surveyors and other cost management professionals.
Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE): This is a professional body that supports civil engineers and related professionals, providing training, networking, and professional accreditation for quantity surveyors working in the construction and infrastructure sectors.
These bodies provide a range of benefits to quantity surveyors, including access to training and development opportunities, professional accreditation, and networking with other professionals in the industry.
How do I start my career in Quantity Surveying?
To start a career in quantity surveying, there are several steps you can take:
Education: Obtain a degree in quantity surveying or a related field such as construction management, civil engineering, or architecture. Many universities and colleges offer undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in quantity surveying.
Internship: Gain practical experience by seeking internships or work experience in a construction-related field. This can help you develop your skills and knowledge and provide you with industry contacts.
Professional Accreditation: Consider obtaining professional accreditation from a recognized body such as RICS, CIOB, ACostE, or ICE. This can help to enhance your professional credibility and provide you with a competitive advantage in the job market.
Networking: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and network with other professionals in the construction industry. This can help you to stay up to date with the latest industry trends and developments, and connect you with potential employers.
Job search: Look for job opportunities in the construction industry, including online job boards, career fairs, and networking events. Consider applying for entry-level positions, such as assistant quantity surveyor or junior estimator, to gain more experience and develop your skills.
Starting a career in quantity surveying requires a combination of education, practical experience, professional accreditation, networking, and job search skills. With determination and hard work, you can develop a successful career in this field.
What is the demand for quantity surveyors in the UK?
The demand for quantity surveyors in the UK can vary depending on the overall state of the construction industry and the economy. However, quantity surveyors are generally in demand due to the ongoing need for cost management and financial control within construction projects.
According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) UK Construction and Infrastructure Market Survey Q4 2021, the construction industry in the UK is continuing to experience growth, with strong demand for new residential and infrastructure projects. This has led to increased demand for construction professionals, including quantity surveyors.
In addition, the UK government has committed to investing in infrastructure, including transport, energy, and housing, which is expected to drive demand for quantity surveyors in the coming years.
Overall, the demand for quantity surveyors in the UK is expected to remain strong, particularly for those with a strong track record in cost management, financial control, and project management
What are salaries like for quantity surveyors in East Anglia
Salaries for quantity surveyors in East Anglia can vary depending on a range of factors, including level of experience, industry sector, and specific job role. According to salary data from various sources, here are some average salary ranges for quantity surveyors in East Anglia:
Assistant Quantity Surveyor: £25,000 - £35,000 per year
Quantity Surveyor: £35,000 - £50,000 per year
Senior Quantity Surveyor: £50,000 - £65,000 per year
Managing Quantity Surveyor: £65,000 - £80,000 per year
These figures are intended as a general guide and may not reflect the specific salary range for a particular role or employer. It's important to note that salaries can also be influenced by other factors, such as company size, location, and the specific nature of the projects being undertaken.
It's also worth noting that salaries in East Anglia may be lower or higher than the national average for quantity surveyors in the UK, depending on the region and the specific industry sector.
What personality types are best for quantity surveying careers?
There are several personality traits that can be beneficial for a career in quantity surveying, including:
Analytical: Quantity surveyors are required to analyse complex data, perform cost calculations, and make strategic decisions based on the information available. An analytical mindset is important in order to identify problems, assess options, and provide solutions.
Detail-oriented: The role of a quantity surveyor involves working with large amounts of data, often involving numbers and calculations. Attention to detail is critical to ensure accuracy and minimize errors, which can have a significant impact on project costs and timelines.
Strong communication: Quantity surveyors need to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and project managers. Good communication skills are important to ensure that everyone is clear on project goals, timelines, and budgets.
Problem-solving: Quantity surveyors need to be able to identify potential problems and come up with effective solutions that meet project goals and budgets. Strong problem-solving skills are essential to ensure that project timelines and costs are managed effectively.
Teamwork: Quantity surveyors often work as part of a wider project team, which may include architects, engineers, and construction managers. Good teamwork skills are important to ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals and that projects are completed on time and on budget.
It's important to note that while possessing these traits can be helpful, they are not the only factors that determine success in a career in quantity surveying. Other factors, such as education, experience, and industry knowledge, are also important.
What are career prospects like as a quantity surveyor in East Anglia?
Career prospects for quantity surveyors in East Anglia can be positive, with a range of opportunities available across different industry sectors. Some potential career paths for quantity surveyors in East Anglia include:
Private practice: Working for a firm that provides cost management services to clients across different sectors, such as commercial, residential, or infrastructure.
Construction companies: Working for a construction company as an in-house quantity surveyor, providing cost management services for the company's projects.
Public sector: Working for a government or public sector organization, providing cost management services for infrastructure projects, such as highways, railways, and water supply systems.
Consultancy: Working for a specialist consultancy that provides cost management services for specific areas of the construction industry, such as energy, health care, or education.
In terms of career progression, quantity surveyors can move up the career ladder by taking on more senior roles, such as senior quantity surveyor, project manager, or commercial director. With the right experience and skills, there may also be opportunities to start your own consultancy or business in East Anglia.
Overall, the demand for construction professionals, including quantity surveyors, is expected to remain strong in East Anglia, with opportunities available across different sectors and at different levels of seniority.