Quantity Surveyor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of infrastructure and real estate development, the role of a quantity surveyor has never been more crucial.

As construction projects proliferate, the demand for proficient professionals who can manage, estimate, and control construction costs surges.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a quantity surveyor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the dynamics of quantity surveying,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable quantity surveyor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Quantity Surveyor Duties and Responsibilities

Quantity Surveyors manage all costs related to building and civil engineering projects, from the initial calculations to the final figures.

They seek to minimize the costs of a project and enhance value for money while ensuring that the project meets all legal and quality assurance requirements.

They are involved with a project from the start, preparing estimates and costs of the work when the project is in its design stages, and continue their work managing and monitoring costs as the project evolves and is underway.

Here are some of their primary duties and responsibilities:

• Analyze architectural and engineering plans to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments to estimate financial impact and to support business planning and decision-making
• Negotiate and draw up bids for tenders and contracts
• Prepare detailed progress and cost reports and forecast the cost of the different stages of a project
• Manage the costs and budget of a project throughout its lifecycle
• Advise on procurement strategy and assist in establishing a client’s requirements and undertake feasibility studies
• Identify commercial risks, develop and implement solutions
• Make and process claims for construction work
• Ensure that construction work complies with legal requirements and safety regulations
• Procure or agree the services of contractors and/or subcontractors who work on the construction of the project

 

Quantity Surveyor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Quantity Surveyor to join our team.

The Quantity Surveyor will be responsible for all aspects of cost and contract management, including preparing cost estimates, managing construction costs and contracts, and analyzing project profitability.

The successful candidate should possess strong analytical skills, excellent knowledge of construction methodologies and regulations, and be able to manage multiple projects concurrently.

 

Responsibilities

• Review architectural plans and prepare quantity needs.
• Estimate the quantity and costs of materials.
• Prepare contracts and documents.
• Set budgets for payments, inventory needs, and materials.
• Track changes in plans or constructions; update budgets.
• Act as a liaison between clients and site managers/engineers.
• Keep track of construction materials and inventory.
• Identify potential financial or construction risks.
• Advise clients on improvements, strategies, and solutions.
• Review progress reports and identify any issues.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Quantity Surveyor or similar role.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies and regulations.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Knowledge of construction estimating/bidding software.
• A degree in quantity surveying, construction engineering, management, or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Quantity Surveyor
• Work Environment: Office setting with visits to construction sites as needed. Some travel may be required for site visits and client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Project Manager or Senior Quantity Surveyor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?

Quantity Surveyors, often referred to as construction cost consultants or commercial managers, are vital to the financial and legal management of construction projects.

They manage and control costs within construction projects, from the initial calculations to the final figures.

They seek to minimize the costs of a project and enhance value for money, while still achieving the required standards and quality.

A Quantity Surveyor’s role involves a wide range of responsibilities, which include conducting feasibility studies and writing procurement reports, assessing and managing risks, and administering contracts.

They are also involved in cost planning, value management, and cost control.

Quantity Surveyors may be involved in the procurement of construction work, advising on the contractual arrangements and the selection of the construction team.

They need to understand regulations and laws related to the construction industry and may be involved in dispute resolution, working alongside lawyers or other specialists.

Their role is essential in sustaining a cost-effective project, ensuring that the project adheres to regulations and project specifications, and delivering the project on time and within budget.

 

Quantity Surveyor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Quantity Surveyor should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Cost management skills to estimate and manage costs for construction projects effectively.
• Technical knowledge to understand construction plans and blueprints, and the ability to use related software.
• Interpersonal skills to liaise with contractors, clients, and other professionals involved in the project.
• Analytical thinking to review architectural plans and identify potential cost implications, risks, and benefits.
• Communication skills to negotiate with suppliers and contractors, and to provide clear cost reports to clients and project managers.
• Project management skills to oversee all stages of the construction process and ensure that costs are in line with forecasts.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve discrepancies between estimated and actual costs.
• Legal understanding to advise on contracts, warranties, and professional risks.
• Knowledge of construction, materials, and industry updates to provide accurate estimates and project progress reports.

 

Quantity Surveyor Experience Requirements

Entry-level Quantity Surveyor candidates often have 1-2 years of experience, usually gained through internships or part-time roles in the construction or civil engineering sector.

These roles provide practical experience in areas such as cost management, contract administration, and construction project planning.

Candidates with around 3-4 years of relevant experience are usually well-versed in a variety of construction projects, have developed their cost estimation skills, and are accustomed to preparing and analyzing tender documents.

These professionals may have also started to gain experience in contract negotiation and dispute resolution.

For those with over 5 years of experience, they should have a proven track record in managing construction costs and contracts.

At this level, they may have gained leadership experience, making them suitable candidates for roles such as Senior Quantity Surveyor or Project Manager.

They should also have a deep understanding of construction law, project management, and risk analysis.

It’s also important to note that many employers prefer Quantity Surveyors to have professional certification from recognized bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), alongside their work experience.

This certification often requires candidates to have a specific amount of practical experience.

Continuous professional development is also crucial in this role as it keeps the Quantity Surveyor updated with the changing industry standards and practices.

Overall, the role of a Quantity Surveyor requires a blend of practical experience, theoretical knowledge, and continuous learning.

 

Quantity Surveyor Education and Training Requirements

Quantity Surveyors typically have a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, construction management, civil engineering, or a related field.

In their degree programs, they are trained in cost management, contract law, and construction technology, among other relevant subjects.

Some positions may require Quantity Surveyors to have a postgraduate degree in a specialized area such as construction economics or construction law.

In many countries, Quantity Surveyors are also required to be chartered or certified by a professional body, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).

This usually involves completing a period of practical training and passing a professional competence assessment.

Continuing professional development is important in this field due to the evolving nature of construction methods and regulations.

Therefore, many Quantity Surveyors take additional courses throughout their careers to stay up-to-date.

Certain roles may also require proficiency in specific software like AutoCAD and CostX, for cost estimating and measurement.

Prior experience in the construction industry can also be beneficial.

 

Quantity Surveyor Salary Expectations

A Quantity Surveyor earns an average salary of $70,833 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, specialization, industry, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Quantity Surveyor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Quantity Surveyor need?

A Quantity Surveyor should have strong numerical and financial management skills, an understanding of construction methodologies, and the ability to read architectural drawings and plans.

They should also possess excellent communication and negotiation skills, as they often interact with contractors, suppliers, and clients.

 

Do Quantity Surveyors need a degree?

Most Quantity Surveyors hold a degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or a related field.

Additionally, many employers prefer Quantity Surveyors who are certified by a recognized industry body, such as the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

 

What should you look for in a Quantity Surveyor resume?

A strong Quantity Surveyor resume should highlight a candidate’s experience in construction, engineering, or a related field.

Look for experience in cost estimation, project management, and contract negotiation.

The resume should also demonstrate a strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and regulations.

 

What qualities make a good Quantity Surveyor?

A good Quantity Surveyor possesses excellent analytical skills, enabling them to accurately estimate costs and manage budgets.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring all elements of a project are considered when estimating costs.

They are also excellent communicators, capable of explaining complex financial information to clients, contractors, and other stakeholders.

 

What are the daily duties of a Quantity Surveyor?

A Quantity Surveyor typically begins their day by reviewing current projects and checking for any updates.

They spend a significant portion of their day preparing cost estimates and budgets, negotiating with contractors, and managing contracts.

They also monitor the progress of projects to ensure they are on schedule and within budget.

In addition, they may attend meetings with clients, architects, and other stakeholders to discuss project requirements and updates.

 

Is it difficult to hire Quantity Surveyors?

Finding a skilled Quantity Surveyor can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique blend of skills, including a deep understanding of construction, strong financial management skills, and excellent negotiation skills.

Therefore, it’s important to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a quantity surveyor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about shaping the construction industry, one estimate at a time.

Armed with our go-to quantity surveyor job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every estimate contributes to the grand scheme of a project.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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