Assistant surveyor
The role of an assistant quantity surveyor often has the same elements as a head quantity surveyor (QS). While not having the title and the corresponding pay rate, these individuals are responsible for many of the same things. This can include estimates, control over project costs, documentation and assessment.
Each aspect of a project falls directly under the watchful eye of this person. It requires a careful planning strategy along with effective management techniques to stay within budget. Currently there are many openings in this field, with most of them requiring experience in some form of construction first.
Most types of QSs are concerned with the actual construction costs and work predominantly towards that end. They can be trained in cost control, employing techniques to keep expenditures on budget, contract management, construction surveying, project management and so on.
QSs can carry a variety of job titles depending on the actual work being performed. Since there are many areas that can be specialised in, the corresponding designation will typically fit in with the duties on site:
- For persons working with an organisation, they may be designated as professional QS or simply PQS.
- When employed by a construction company, the usual moniker is main contractor's QS. Although this looks different, the actual work is pretty much the same.
- If the project calls for dealings with contracts or costs mainly, the designation is professional QS or private practice QS. Cost planning, feasibility studies and analysis are a major part of this job's duties.
For an assistant QS to move up the ladder, they must have the proper educational background. A college degree is often only one of the prerequisites that are needed in order to fill this role. Most graduates interested in starting this occupation are assigned the assistant's title, even if they will be performing all of the duties of the head surveyor. Some background experience in construction is preferred before consideration for promotion. Many companies will consider a potential candidate only if there is a good deal of experience in the construction trade first. The combination of education, experience and field work are often the best way to earn promotion.
Assistant QS jobs are plentiful, with many of these openings being generated in the UK. However, for the person wanting to see the world, international firms continue to hire individuals with the proper credentials. This can mean travel to the Middle East or Asia where there is a lot of construction taking place.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.