- Ensure construction projects are completed within budget and on schedule while maintaining quality standards
- Provide accurate cost estimates, financial forecasts, and budget management throughout all project phases
- Minimize financial risk and maximize value for money on construction projects
- Maintain compliance with legal standards, building regulations, and contractual obligations
- Optimize resource allocation and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
- Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between all project stakeholders
- Deliver comprehensive financial reporting and documentation for construction projects
Objectives
Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, bills of quantities, and tender documents for construction projects
- Analyze construction plans, specifications, and drawings to determine material and labor requirements
- Monitor and control project costs throughout the construction lifecycle, identifying gaps and cost-saving opportunities
- Negotiate contracts with suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors to secure the best prices and terms
- Prepare and manage contracts, change orders, and cost reports for clients and stakeholders
- Conduct site visits to assess project progress, validate quantities, and ensure compliance with specifications
- Prepare interim and final valuations, variations, and claims throughout the construction process
- Liaise with architects, engineers, contractors, project managers, and clients to coordinate project activities
- Track materials inventory and order additional supplies when required
- Document design changes and update budgets accordingly to reflect project modifications
- Conduct feasibility studies and value engineering exercises to optimize project outcomes
- Manage risk assessments and provide advice on commercial risks and contractual disputes
- Ensure projects meet health and safety regulations and building code requirements
- Maintain accurate records and documentation of all project-related costs and financial transactions
- Prepare regular budget reports, financial analyses, and progress reports for management and clients
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in quantity surveying, construction management, civil engineering, or related field
- Minimum 5 years of experience in quantity surveying or cost consulting in the construction industry
- Strong mathematical, analytical, and numerical skills for accurate cost estimation and analysis
- Comprehensive knowledge of construction industry practices, regulations, and standards
- Proficiency in cost estimation, cost management, and budgeting techniques
- Experience with AutoCAD and ability to validate quantities from technical drawings
- Strong understanding of contract administration and construction law
- Knowledge of building regulations, health and safety standards, and statutory requirements
- Excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills for managing stakeholder relationships
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to write clear reports
- Proficiency in relevant software including MS Excel, MS Project, and quantity surveying applications
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively
- Strong problem-solving abilities and creative approach to cost optimization
- Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Valid driver's license for travel to construction sites
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
- Professional membership or chartered status with RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) or CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building)
- Postgraduate degree or RICS-accredited qualification in quantity surveying
- Experience working on diverse construction projects including residential, commercial, and industrial developments
- Knowledge of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and quantity takeoff software
- Familiarity with various contracting methods including design-build, package contracting, and value-based projects
- Understanding of service guidelines such as National Building Code (NBC), ANSI/ASHRAE, and LEED standards
- Experience with life cycle costing and post-occupancy facility management
- Knowledge of environmental standards and sustainable construction practices
- Strong project management skills and ability to work effectively under pressure
- Experience with procurement strategy development and supply chain management
- Ability to provide advice on property taxation and alternative funding sources
- Networking abilities and established relationships within the construction industry
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What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?
A quantity surveyor estimates, monitors, and controls all costs related to construction projects from initial design through final completion, ensuring projects remain within budget while meeting quality standards. They work as cost consultants who minimize financial risk and maximize value for money throughout the construction lifecycle.
Organizations need quantity surveyors to ensure the financial success and profitability of construction projects. Quantity surveyors provide critical financial oversight that prevents cost overruns, manages commercial risks, and ensures clients receive value for their investment while maintaining legal compliance and quality standards.
A quantity surveyor needs strong analytical and numerical abilities combined with comprehensive knowledge of construction practices, contract law, and cost management techniques. They must possess excellent negotiation skills, proficiency in specialized software including AutoCAD and cost estimation tools, and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to diverse stakeholders.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor?
The responsibilities of a quantity surveyor are to manage all financial aspects of construction projects, prepare accurate cost estimates and tender documents, and negotiate contracts with suppliers and subcontractors. They ensure projects are delivered within budget through continuous cost monitoring and control.
Quantity surveyor duties include conducting site visits to assess progress, preparing valuations and claims, liaising with architects and engineers, and maintaining detailed financial records throughout the construction process. They also manage risks, resolve contractual disputes, and ensure compliance with building regulations and quality standards.
Understanding these core responsibilities helps organizations ask targeted interview questions that identify candidates with the right combination of technical expertise, financial acumen, and stakeholder management skills to successfully manage construction project costs.
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