Description

Senior quantity surveyors decide what materials needed to be ordered to determine the cost of constructing a building. They are generally employed through the entire construction process, in which they source materials, control construction costs, and act as a liaison among parties such as the engineers who designed the project and the suppliers of the various materials being purchased. In addition, senior quality surveyors are generally the go-to people for how much of a project has been paid for, and when that money was paid.These surveyors generally control disbursements and ensure that things are not paid for too soon. A senior quantity surveyor operates as an integral part of large, complex teams, ensuring that every piece of a building comes together on time and within budget.Senior quantity surveyors must have substantial experience in engineering and construction. They need to hold at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as engineering, finance, construction, or architecture. They also need to have considerable project experience under their belt. Most employers also desire that their senior quantity surveyors be certified by an industry-standard agency, such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification issued by the Project Management Institute.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Senior Quantity Surveyor with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Manage and oversee the cost control and financial management aspects of construction projects, ensuring adherence to budgets and financial targets.
  • Conduct detailed analysis and evaluation of project costs, preparing accurate estimates and forecasts for materials, labor, and equipment.
  • Collaborate with project teams to review and negotiate contracts, resolve contractual disputes, and ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior quantity surveyors, sharing industry knowledge and best practices to support their professional development.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Senior Quantity Surveyor, the following qualifications are required:

  • Extensive experience in quantity surveying, including proficiency in preparing cost estimates, conducting feasibility studies, and analyzing construction project budgets.
  • Strong knowledge of industry-standard methods and tools for cost planning, tendering, and procurement processes.
  • Excellent negotiation and problem-solving skills to liaise with contractors, suppliers, and clients to resolve any pricing or contractual discrepancies.
  • Proven leadership abilities to effectively manage and mentor a team of junior quantity surveyors, ensuring the successful completion of projects within budget and deadlines.

Essential Skills For Senior Quantity Surveyor

1

Testing Automation

2

Quality Management

3

Process Analysis

4

Quality Assurance

Skills That Affect Senior Quantity Surveyor Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Business Management

12%

Career Prospects

The role of Senior Quantity Surveyor in Canada requires 6-9 years of experience. Here are four alternative roles to consider:

  • Construction Project Manager: Responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of construction projects, from planning to completion, ensuring quality, budget adherence, and timely delivery.
  • Cost Estimator: Focuses on analyzing project requirements and developing accurate cost estimates, considering materials, labor, and other expenses to help organizations make informed decisions.
  • Contract Administrator: Manages contractual agreements, ensuring compliance, resolving disputes, and facilitating effective communication between parties involved in construction projects.
  • Construction Claims Consultant: Specializes in assessing and managing construction claims, providing expert advice on contract disputes, delays, and other legal matters to mitigate risks and ensure fair resolutions.

How to Learn

According to the latest data available with Google, the role of Senior Quantity Surveyor in Canada is anticipated to experience significant growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, the job role has displayed a positive trend in terms of demand and employment opportunities. The projected growth for this position is expected to continue in the coming years, leading to an increased number of employment opportunities. This indicates a promising future for individuals aspiring to work as Senior Quantity Surveyors in Canada.