Quantity Surveyor

The majority of construction and engineering projects are massive in scope which require significant sums of funds. Naturally, a customer or contractor would like the best quality at the lowest cost and for this they employ people known as quantity surveyors. Quantity surveyors are, in essence the financial manager of an engineering project of a significant size. He is responsible for maximizing the value of the project to the client by achieving the most advantageous balance between price and high quality. They may also be referred to as commercial managers or construction/engineering cost consultants.

A quantity surveyor is involved in an undertaking from the beginning, working with clients and contractors throughout the contract process, and also engaging in a preliminary cost analysis. Once this is completed and work commences, he/she maintains a close eye on the project and is always looking for ways to increase the value of the investment by preparing regular reports on profitability and staying informed of changes in contract's status. Any changes or possible changes are evaluated and reported to the client, then implemented as needed. In a lot of cases the quantity surveyors assist in the purchase of materials and collaborate directly with (and occasionally employ) the subcontractors needed. They can also offer guidance and support for various tasks after the conclusion of the project, if any further modifications are required.

The job as a quantity surveyor usually requires a degree from a college with a focus on finance or engineering. While candidates are encouraged to seek accreditation from an official source but those who do not have an experience in surveying techniques aren't ineligible for the position long as they possess the required education and experience.

As a Quantity Surveyor with 9+ years of experience in the United States, here are following main responsibilities:

• Prepare cost estimates, bills of quantities, and tender documents, ensuring accuracy and conformity to project specifications.Develop detailed cost estimates, quantity takeoffs, and material schedules for construction projects, facilitating accurate budgeting and resource allocation.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and cost evaluations to identify potential savings and value engineering opportunities.Evaluate project risks, anticipate cost implications, and propose cost-saving measures, optimizing project cost-efficiency without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with project stakeholders to negotiate and manage contracts, subcontracts, and variations.Engage in contract negotiations, administer contractual agreements, and track variations, ensuring compliance with legal and contractual requirements.
• Provide expert advice and guidance on cost management, procurement strategies, and project viability.

For a Quantity Surveyor job role, the following qualifications are required:

• In-depth understanding of construction and engineering principles to accurately estimate project costs and quantities of materials.
• Proficiency in using quantity surveying software and tools to perform cost analysis, prepare budgets, and generate reports.
• Strong knowledge of industry regulations and standards to ensure compliance during project planning, execution, and completion.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills to liaise with clients, suppliers, and contractors, resolving pricing discrepancies and managing contracts effectively.

The Quantity Surveyor job role requires a 9+ years work experience in the United States. For professionals in this field looking for alternative roles, here are following options to consider:

• Construction Project Manager: A position that involves overseeing all aspects of construction projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordination of resources.
• Cost Estimator: A role focused on analyzing project requirements, preparing cost estimates, and evaluating potential risks and uncertainties.
• Facilities Manager: A position that involves managing the maintenance and operations of buildings and facilities, including budgeting, vendor management, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Real Estate Developer: A role that involves identifying and acquiring suitable properties, conducting feasibility studies, and managing the development process from planning to completion.

According to recent data from Google, the projected growth for the job role of Quantity Surveyor in the United States is promising. Over the next 10 years, this role is expected to experience steady growth in the market. The demand for Quantity Surveyors is projected to increase, resulting in a significant number of employment opportunities in the future. This positive outlook is backed by the increasing construction and infrastructure projects in the country. With the importance of cost management and accurate estimation in construction projects, Quantity Surveyors are likely to play a crucial role, making this profession an attractive career option.