Quantity Surveyor

Also known as a “QS”, "Cost Consultant", “Cost Manager” or "Commercial Manager"

Quantity surveyors can work on all types of projects – residential, commercial or industrial, they are responsible for guaranteeing a project is completed within the set budget and that structures meet legal and quality standards.

Quantity surveyors are involved at every stage of a project; starting with preparing preliminary costs and then keeping track of the progress and any changes to make sure the final outcome is value for money.

Key aspects of the role:

  • Establish the client’s requirements and undertake feasibility studies to ensure their proposals will work
  • Prepare scheme designs with costings, programmes for completion of projects, and specification of works
  • Perform risk, value management, and cost control during construction

Beneficial skills & interests in this role:

  • Numerical and data analysis skills
  • A practical, logical and methodical approach to work
  • Written and verbal communication skills
  • A creative and innovative approach to problem solving

How much can I earn?

Depending on where in the UK you decide to work, your salary will be higher or lower. Check out our salary map to see what you could earn.

Click a region on the map

pointer
London Quantity Surveyor salaries*
Apprentice (L6):£17,800
Graduate:£27,000
Newly qualified:£34,000
Partner / Director:£75,000
pointer
pointer
London Quantity Surveyor salaries*
Apprentice (L6):£17,800
Graduate:£27,000
Newly qualified:£34,000
Partner / Director:£75,000

* Salaries are an estimate and may vary

Career paths into this role

  • Apprentice route
    You could qualify as a Quantity Surveyor whilst working in a supporting role. You study alongside your practical experience

  • Graduate route
    You could do a quantity surveying degree or a postgraduate conversion course accredited by RICS.
    You’ll usually need 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree. For the post-grad course, you can have a degree in any subject.

Looking for a Quantity Surveyor Role?

Below are our partners who all have a range of vacancies available. Have a look through them, you may discover the perfect Quantity Surveyor role for you!

Other roles you might enjoy

Building Surveyor

avatar
  • Advise on energy efficiency, environmental impact and sustainable construction
  • Deal with planning applications and advise on property legislation and building regulations
  • Determine the condition of existing buildings, identify and analyse defects, including proposals for repair

Facilities Surveyor

avatar
  • Procurement and contract management
  • Project manage, supervise and coordinate the work of contractors
  • Ensure buildings meet health and safety requirement

Want to take a look around?

If you’d like to see all the jobs that the property industry has to offer, why not browse everything?