Quantity Surveyor

Quantity Surveyors (QS) are responsible for managing the commercial aspects of construction projects, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.

• Estimate, control and report on construction project costs
• Negotiate contracts, variations and final accounts
• Specialise into pre‑contract (PQS), post‑contract (contractor‑side) or commercial management
• Work for tier‑one contractors, major consultancies, developers and the public sector

Most UK QS roles require or incentivise progression to RICS Chartered Surveyor status (MRICS) through the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). Candidates should have a relevant degree in quantity surveying, civil engineering, architecture or a related discipline.

Graduate QS at tier‑one contractors or consultancies start at £30,000–£38,000. Chartered QS (MRICS) reach £50,000–£65,000, with senior chartered roles reaching £75,000–£100,000. QS Directors at major firms earn £100,000–£180,000+.

• Post‑graduate conversion MSc in Quantity Surveying (1 year, RICS‑accredited)
• Quantity Surveying Apprenticeship (4 years, Level 6/7, fully funded)
• Overseas‑qualified surveyor route via RICS mutual‑recognition agreements with professional bodies abroad

• Negotiation across subcontractors, designers and clients
• Attention to detail under commercial pressure
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Pragmatic problem‑solving
• Ethical decision‑making (RICS Rules of Conduct)

• Graduate QS (0–2 years) – learn core skills under supervision, start APC.
• Assistant QS / QS (2–4 years) – manage own cost packages, complete APC.
• Chartered QS (4–8 years) – lead commercial management on major projects, mentor junior staff.
• Commercial Manager / QS Director (8 years +) – strategic leadership across large programmes or regional units.