Quantity Surveyor

Roles and responsibilities

A Quantity Surveyor (QS) is a construction industry professional who manages and advises on the costs and financial aspects of construction projects. The role ensures that a project is completed on time and within budget, while maintaining quality standards. Quantity surveyors are involved in all stages of a project, from initial planning and design through to completion, providing cost estimation, tendering, and cost control.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Estimation and Budgeting

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for construction projects, including labor, materials, equipment, and overhead costs.
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring that costs stay within the allocated financial limits.
• Provide cost advice to clients during the early planning stages to ensure that the project is financially viable.
• Analyze design and construction proposals to identify potential cost savings or budget adjustments.

Tendering and Procurement

• Prepare and issue tender documents to contractors, including specifications, drawings, and schedules.
• Evaluate bids and proposals from contractors and suppliers, ensuring the best value for the client.
• Negotiate contracts and terms with suppliers and contractors.
• Provide recommendations on contractor selection based on cost, experience, and capability.

Contract Administration

• Draft and manage contracts with contractors, ensuring that all terms and conditions are clearly defined.
• Oversee the administration of contracts to ensure that work is carried out as per the contract requirements.
• Review and approve invoices and payment applications submitted by contractors and suppliers.
• Address any disputes or claims arising from contract terms, scope changes, or delays.

Cost Control and Financial Reporting

• Monitor project costs throughout the construction phase, tracking expenses, and comparing them against the budget.
• Provide regular financial reports to clients and stakeholders, highlighting any variances or potential issues.
• Implement strategies to control costs and reduce waste or inefficiency.
• Conduct regular site visits to ensure work is being carried out according to schedule and within budget.

Value Engineering and Risk Management

• Conduct value engineering exercises to identify cost-effective alternatives to meet project objectives without compromising on quality.
• Identify potential risks to the project’s financial success and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
• Analyze and assess project changes or delays, determining their impact on cost and schedule.

Project Management and Coordination

• Work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that the project is delivered on time and within budget.
• Advise on cost-effective design solutions, materials, and construction methods.
• Coordinate with various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and suppliers, to ensure smooth project execution.

Desired candidate profile

1. Strong Numerical and Analytical Skills

   • Ability to work with complex data, including measurements, calculations, and financial reports.
   • Proficiency in cost estimation software, spreadsheets, and financial tools.

2. Attention to Detail

   • Meticulous in reviewing project plans, specifications, and contracts to ensure that costs and budgets are accurately managed.
   • Ability to spot discrepancies or potential cost overruns early.

3. Negotiation Skills

   • Strong negotiation skills for dealing with contractors, suppliers, and clients to secure the best terms and prices.
   • Ability to resolve disputes and manage conflicts related to costs and contract terms.

4. Project Management

   • Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects, often working with tight deadlines.
   • Coordinating with different teams and stakeholders to ensure that projects run smoothly and stay within budget.

5. Communication Skills

   • Strong written and verbal communication skills to present cost information and reports to clients and stakeholders.
   • Ability to explain complex financial data in a clear and understandable manner.

6. Problem-Solving and Decision Making

   • Ability to identify issues that could affect project costs or timelines and propose effective solutions.
   • Quick decision-making skills, especially when dealing with budget overruns, delays, or scope changes.

7. Knowledge of Construction and Engineering

   • Understanding of construction processes, materials, and techniques.
   • Familiarity with building regulations, safety standards, and environmental requirements.