Quantity Surveyors (QS) are responsible for managing the commercial aspects of construction projects, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Responsibilities
- 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
Qualifications & Experience
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.
UK Salary Ranges
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+.
Typical Entry Routes
- 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
Skills You'll Need
- 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)
Career Progression
- 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.