Quantity Surveyor

Most engineering and construction projects are large-scale operations, and completing them involves the investment of considerable amounts of money. Naturally, a client or contractor wants the maximum quality for the minimum cost; for this purpose, they hire people called quantity surveyors. A quantity surveyor is, in essence, the financial manager of a large engineering project who is tasked with maximizing the value of the project for his/her client by producing a most favorable balance of cost and quality. They may also be referred to as commercial managers or construction/engineering cost consultants.

A quantity surveyor is engaged in a project from the very beginning by working with clients and their contractors during the contract process and engaging in preliminary cost analysis. When this is complete and work begins, he/she keeps a constant vigil over the process and stays on the lookout for ways to improve the investment by producing regular profitability reports and keeping abreast of the evolution of the contract status; changes and potential changes are analyzed, reported, and implemented when desired. In many cases, quantity surveyors also assist in the acquisition of materials and work directly with (and sometimes hire) the needed subcontractors. They also provide advice and assistance for various tasks following completion of the project if further changes are necessary.

The position of a quantity surveyor typically requires a college degree with an emphasis in engineering and/or finance. Although candidates are advised to pursue official accreditation, those without a background in technical surveying are not ineligible so as long as they have the necessary education and experience.

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

• Prepare detailed cost estimates, bills of quantities, and tender documents for construction projects. Create accurate and comprehensive cost estimates, including materials, labor, and equipment.
• Conduct value engineering exercises to optimize costs and improve project efficiency. Identify opportunities to reduce costs without compromising quality or functionality.
• Review and negotiate contractual terms and conditions with contractors and suppliers. Analyze contract terms, negotiate prices, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Manage project budgets, monitor costs, and provide regular financial reports to stakeholders.

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 role of a Quantity Surveyor is important for efficient cost management in construction projects. With 6-9 years of experience in Singapore, professionals can consider the following alternative roles:

• Project Manager: Oversee all aspects of a construction project, including planning, budgeting, and coordinating resources.
• Construction Cost Consultant: Provide expert advice on cost estimation, budgeting, and value engineering to optimize project costs.
• Contracts Manager: Responsible for reviewing and negotiating contracts, ensuring compliance, and resolving contractual disputes.
• Estimating Manager: Manage a team of estimators, analyze project requirements, and provide accurate cost estimates for bidding purposes.

The job role of a Quantity Surveyor in Singapore is expected to witness significant growth in the market. In a 10-year analysis, it is projected that the demand for Quantity Surveyors will continue to rise, as the construction industry expands rapidly. The Singapore government's focus on infrastructure development and increasing urbanization further contributes to the growth opportunities in this field. With a surge in construction projects, there will be a substantial number of employment opportunities available for Quantity Surveyors in the future. Recent data points from Google indicate a positive outlook for this profession, highlighting the potential for a prosperous career in Singapore's construction industry.