The construction sector in the UK relies on a broad range of professionals coming together and collaborating on projects large and small. Some of these professions have been around for a very long time, while others are more recent innovations.
We all understand the importance of carpenters, tilers, plasterers, and electricians in construction projects. They are the ones who carry out the physical labour required to make the project a reality. Nevertheless, behind this team of professionals helping to coordinate are a legion of administrators, without whom the modern industry would not be feasible. Among the most important of this supporting cast are quantity surveyors.
If you have never heard what a quantity surveyor is and how they can benefit your project by managing money, planning construction projects, and fostering relationships, then this article is the right place to start.
What are the responsibilities?
Quantity surveyors are responsible for estimating costs and controlling them. They will be involved in larger construction projects, where their contributions may have a significant impact on the speed and effectiveness of the work. Moreover, they are also involved at every stage of a given project, helping to ensure that it’s legally above board, and of the required standard commercially, too. To summarize, they bring all the elements of a construction project together and ensure that they complement one another in order to bring your project to life!
What is the potential pay?
Do you have a strong enthusiasm for planning and putting projects together? If so, quantity surveying might be the perfect career for you!
Given the significance of this position, it should not be surprising that quantity surveyors receive excellent pay. How much money do quantity surveyors make then? This depends on a number of variables, not the least of which are your experience and the region of the country you are working in. Generally speaking, you can anticipate earning a starting salary of £25,000 and eventually reaching £65,000.
What qualifications are required?
There are several potential routes into this profession. You might undertake an undergraduate degree in a relevant field, such as civil engineering, construction, or economics. If you’ve already gotten a degree in an unrelated field, like English literature, then a postgraduate conversion course might be an option. These courses are accredited by two bodies: the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). If the course you’re looking at doesn’t reference either of these organisations, then look elsewhere.
Necessary skills to thrive
To get the most out of life in this profession, you’ll need a diverse skillset. You’ll need to be able to issue clear instructions and receive them, too. This means through spoken and written English. You’ll also need extremely strong numeracy skills and the ability to think independently and act on your own initiative.
You’ll also need the ability to pick up new skills and master new methods and procedures because construction and building technologies are constantly evolving. It is frequently just a matter of being naturally curious and having the investigation and analytical skills to look further anytime you see an intriguing trend in the field of quantity surveying.