Quantity Surveyor Career Description
Persons involved in quantity surveying have a variety of job titles. These include quantity surveyor, building surveyor and construction surveyor. The nature of the work performed and duties vary depending on whether they work in the construction industry or the quantity surveying profession.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Duties will vary depending on the work situation.
Those employed in the quantity surveying profession will work closely with other consultants such as architects, engineers etc. and with building contractors. They are regarded as the cost consultants for the construction industry, and their main services would include:
» Preparing estimates, feasibility studies and budgets for building projects.
» Preparing bills of quantities and other tender documentation for competitive tendering for projects.
» Negotiating building contracts.
» Advising on and preparing contract documentation.
» Monitoring and reporting on cost for the duration of projects.
» Determining final costs of projects.
» Preparing property valuations mainly for insurance purposes.
Some quantity surveying practices would also offer project and construction management services.
Quantity/building surveyors in the construction industry will also work closely with the building consultants including the professional quantity surveyor, but in addition, will have substantial contact with sub-contractors, suppliers and the like. Cost control will also be their primary function and their duties would include:
» Pricing/estimating for building projects.
» Negotiating building contracts.
» Preparing tender documentation mainly for sub-contracts.
» Monitoring and reporting on project costs.
» Controlling and managing subcontractors, suppliers, etc.
» Concluding contracts upon completion of projects.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Quantity/building surveyors relate to people at all levels whether they are consultants, developers, contractors, sub-contractors, etc. They are expected to maintain the highest level of professionalism towards all parties involved and ensure fairness at all times.
Successful quantity/building surveyors need to be people with perseverance, have a well developed ability for logical reasoning and the ability to present and express themselves effectively.
Where can I work?
Employment opportunities are many and varied, and will depend on the level of academic achievement and experience.
The main areas of employment are with building contractors and professional quantity surveyors, but opportunities also exist in property development, with mining houses, financial and insurance institutions and government departments. For those interested in an academic career, there are lecturing posts at both universities. Research which may lead to a higher qualification, can also be undertaken.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Self-employment is a definite option both in the building industry and the quantity surveying profession.
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