Quantity Surveyor

Quantity Surveyors manage the resources of construction projects and ensure that they do not go over budget through cost estimation, procurement, and contract management throughout the project lifecycle.

Quantity Surveyor Job Description

Review project budgets and expenditures to ensure they stay within the available budget.

Work with various stakeholders, such as Site Managers and Contractors, to facilitate smooth project operations.

Conduct thorough research, analyse data, and prepare comprehensive reports to provide insights for informed decision-making in construction projects.

Monitor the availability of construction materials, maintain inventory records, and initiate procurement processes when supplies need replenishment.

Keep track of construction plan or procedure alterations and implement corresponding adjustments to maintain project integrity and efficiency.

Note

In Singapore, Quantity Surveyors manage project costs and contracts too, ensuring economic efficiency in construction. They play a key role in contract negotiation, essential for the sector's sustainability and profitability.

What you should know about Quantity Surveyor jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

Quantity Surveyor tasks depend on the stage of construction their projects are in. Each project has different stages as well!

Key Advice

Master Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology and specialise in green building which will serve you well in your career.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Employers usually require a diploma in Quantity Surveying or Civil Engineering. Local universities, such as NUS, offer degrees in Project and Facilities Management that equip you with the necessary qualifications.

Candidates with prior experience in Quantity Surveying roles, either through internships, co-op programs, or full-time positions, are often preferred by employers.

Certifications such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Chartered Quantity Surveyor or Certified Quantity Surveyor (CQS) can validate proficiency and professionalism in Quantity Surveying practices.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Quantity Surveyor career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Mathematics

Possesses strong numerical and data analysis skills are important to thrive in this role.

Terminologies

Fluency in technical knowledge, including construction terminology and measurements, is essential.

Accounting

Familiarity with basic Accounting and Finance principles to make informed business decisions.

Soft Skills

Communication

Ability to use clear and concise language to convey ideas ensuring team alignment and stakeholder understanding.

Resource Management

Proficiency in allocating and utilising project resources for optimal outcomes.

Problem-Solving

Innovative and effective in coming up with solutions to overcome project hurdles and ensure success.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are Quantity Surveyors often desk-bound?

Although desk work is an important part of the job, this job usually entails more than desk work! Quantity Surveyors travel to construction sites to track the progress of construction projects. This is important for effective budget planning and resource management!
Do Quantity Surveyors only focus on budgeting?

Quantity Surveyors are skilled in many areas! Beyond budgeting skills, they need to be well-versed in other areas. For example, they often look at contracts, hence knowledge of Legal terminology is crucial! Understanding the Engineering dynamics behind construction projects is important to planning as well!
What do Quantity Surveyors do on a daily basis?

Quantity Surveyors meet clients daily to establish their requirements, prepare tenders and contract documents for both clients and Architects, continuously analyse outcomes and write budget reports.
What should be done if Quantity Surveyors have a project that has gone over budget?

When Quantity Surveyors are going over the budget, they should start identifying the cause of it and try to find ways to reduce the cost to ensure it fits within the budget.
What sort of licences are available for Quantity Surveyors to get approved on?

This job requires two types of qualifications to work as a qualified professional. The 'Associate' and 'Chartered' qualifications require applicants to have some work experience to obtain.