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Quantity Surveyor Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated 5 November 2025
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4 min read

A 9212519quantity surveyor54.75assistant quantity surveyor10.37apprenticeship7.9trainee7.31senior quantity surveyor5.5916033117307018000.0051829.29103000.00YEARLY77791272025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Quantity Surveyor, or a Surveyor, manages the cost of construction projects. Their duties include determining client needs, calculating costs and timelines and monitoring construction progress.

9212519quantity surveyor54.75assistant quantity surveyor10.37apprenticeship7.9trainee7.31senior quantity surveyor5.5916033117307018000.0051829.29103000.00YEARLY77791272025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Quantity Surveyor duties and responsibilities

Quantity Surveyors make sure their projects progress efficiently, affordably and safely by assisting in Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) process and preparing Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS). Some Quantity Surveyors provide specialised advice in construction areas, such as Life Cycle Costing (LCC) for continuous economic appraisal of the project. Their primary duties usually include:

  • Meeting clients to determine their needs and discuss any areas that need revising for price or feasibility
  • Calculating material quantities and costs, labour costs and an achievable project timeframe
  • Negotiating labour contracts and schedules
  • Advising clients and crew on legal matters and disputes
  • Monitoring subcontractors, safety practices, construction progress and material needs, including any changes which may impact costs
  • Preparing labour and supplier accounts for payment
  • Writing reports detailing costs and progress for clients

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Quantity Surveyor Job Description Examples:

Example 1

Fintec recruit is seeking a Quantity Surveyor for our construction client. This is a permanent position based in Aberdeenshire with salary depending on experience up to circa £40,000, plus many benefits. You will require to have knowledge of NEC3 contracts.

Responsibilities:

  • Input into the application and credit control process as well as Input into income forecast and pricing of variations.
  • Input into the change control system
  • Good understanding of project risk and costing processes
  • Input into the management of subcontractors and the subcontract cycle
  • Understanding of dispute resolution
  • Contribution to the timely production of CVR’s

Skills and Experience required for the Quantity Surveyor position

  • Degree educated or equivalent.
  • Working towards professional qualification
  • Suitable PQE
  • Knowledge of conditions of contract, knowledge of NEC3 contracts

Full details of the Quantity Surveyor is available on application. To apply please submit your current CV to Fintec recruit

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £30,000.00-£40,000.00 per year

Schedule:
  • Monday to Location: In person

Example 2

Intermediate Civils Quantity Surveyor Required.
My client is a very established civil engineering and groundworks contractor based in Hemel Hempstead. They are proud to have worked on some of the most important rail and engineering projects in the UK including Docklands Light railway 3 car extension, Thameslink Farringdon, Olympic Park Wembley, the London Bridge redevelopment, Euston HS2 and Crossrail projects.
They are currently recruiting for an Intermediate Quantity Surveyor in Hemel Hempstead. The successful candidate will have at least 2 years civils or groundworks experience within commercial and civils sectors.

Key responsibilities and Duties include:
Price/forecast the cost of the different materials needed for the project.
Prepare tender documents, contracts, budgets, bills of quantities and other documentation.
Track changes to the design and/or construction work and adjust budget projections accordingly.
Procure or agree the services of contractors and/or subcontractors who work on the construction of the project.
Measure and value the work done on site.
Pay subcontractors.
Liaise with the client and other construction professionals, such as site managers, project managers and site engineers.
Select and/or source construction materials
Write detailed reports as required.
Full time positions on a permanent basis with full benefits. Company car, pension, performance based bonus. Company days out. Opportunity to join a young dynamic team in a fast growing company.

Candidates must be based in the UK and have a track record of UK Contracts.

Please apply and a member of the JMR team will contact you asap.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £40,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

Additional pay:
  • Performance bonus
Benefits:
  • Discounted or free food
  • On-site parking
Schedule:
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Hemel Hempstead: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:
  • Bachelor's (required)

Experience:
  • surveying: 5 years (required)
  • Groundworks QS: 2 years (required)

Licence/Certification:
  • Driving Licence (required)
  • CSCS (preferred)

Work Kingdom (required)

Example 3

We are recruiting a Quantity Surveyor to join our team working for one of the largest Aluminium Glazing Companies located in the West Midlands and Gloucestershire area. The company designs, fabricates and installs aluminium curtain walling, windows, doors and screens, roof glazing and structural glazing systems.

Due to commercial success and a full order book we are looking to recruit a QS to join our commercial department based at our Smethwick location.

Knowledge within the window, curtain walling and door industry would be preferred.

Job Role:

  • Take commercial responsibility for a number of projects from £ 50k - £ 3.5 million
  • Preparation of applications for payment
  • Collation and pricing of variations as and when required
  • Understanding of technical drawings
  • Produce cash flow forecasts / reports as and when required
  • Obtaining certifications and payments timeous to the agreements within the sub contract and raising of invoices as necessary
  • Taking commercial responsibility of the project including any negotiations up to and including final account agreements
  • Basic knowledge and awareness of contracts
  • Be responsible for the collection of retention
  • Liaise with fixers / suppliers as necessary with regard to commercial aspects following order placement
  • To assist and work closely with the Commercial Director
  • The ideal candidate must be a good team player, highly motivated and enjoy working in a fast paced working environment












Salary - Negotiable (to be discussed at interview stage)

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £31,154.33-£63,193.23 per year



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • West Bromwich, West Midlands: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:
  • Bachelor's (preferred)

Experience:
  • surveying: 1 year (preferred)

Licence/Certification:
  • Driving Licence Location: In person

Example 4

Quantity Surveyor | Marylebone

A major sub-contractor contractor based in London are looking for a Quantity Surveyor with experience to support their growing team and projects.

This well-known experienced sub-contractor, who having been working across all of London, so their team is bringing decades of experience to working in all their specialised sectors. Their services provide a range of various project sizes from small to large- The Quantity Surveyor that they hire will have the opportunity to work and have career progression through their different sectors.

The Quantity Surveyor position:

As Quantity Surveyor, you will have to be a fast learning and be able to work at a fast pace and be able adapt to a forward-thinking dynamic team, by also working on a various of sectors.

You will be the ideal Quantity Surveyor for the role if you live locally, are looking for a new challenge and have the relevant experience.

Requirements for this Quantity Surveyor position:

· Minimum 2 years Quantity Surveying experience

· Ideally fit out experience but not essential

· Be hungry to progress your career

Package on offer for this Quantity Surveyor position:

· £40k - £60k DOE

· Available relevant training

· Competitive pension

If you are a Quantity Surveyor considering your career options, then please contact Andrew Coulson at RHL.

The services of RHL are that of an Employment Agency. Our client can only accept applications from Quantity Surveyors who have a valid legal permit or right to work in the United Kingdom.

Potential Quantity Surveyors who do not have this right or permit or are pending an application to obtain this right or permit should not apply.

Quantity Surveyor | London | contractor | major build sectors

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £40,000.00-£60,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • Company car
  • Flexitime
  • Work from home
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus Location: Hybrid remote in London

Example 5

Reference

Ste/1521

Job Type



Industry

House building

Location

Manchester

Senior Quantity Surveyor
Stewart Milne Group (the Group) is one of the UK’s largest independent housebuilders. The business was established in Aberdeen in 1975 and currently consists of two regional Homes divisions (Homes Scotland and Homes North West England).
The Group has offices in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Glasgow (Uddingston).
The Senior Quantity Surveyor will report to the Commercial Manager, providing support and advice across all aspects of the commercial role, and will have a good knowledge of the construction process. They should be able to communicate well and provide sound commercial advice and recommendations to the development team across all disciplines. The commercial team aims to maximise profitability whilst minimising risk.
Accountabilities

  • Coordinate and manage all financial activities of assigned developments, monitoring performance against contract programmes and reporting any issues to Contracts Managers and Directors.
  • Build and maintain close working relationships with other disciplines within the organisation, particularly the finance, construction and technical teams.
  • Take ownership to ensure customer enquiries are dealt with promptly.
  • Manage and coordinate available resources to meet agreed targets.
  • Be aware of current Health & Safety procedures and ensure they are always adhered to.
  • Gain information from subcontractors and suppliers, including es, rates and payment details. Alongside CIS and insurance documents and negotiate competitive costs to present to the Commercial Manager.
  • Prepare monthly contract review evaluation reports/schedules and cost flow forecasts for submission to the Commercial leadership team.
  • Attend meetings related to the commercial team, pre-contract, design, site progress and others relevant to the role.
  • Possess good negotiation and dispute resolution skills to minimise liability risk and resolve the conflict between drawn information, specifications and work on-site.
  • Have a good understanding of contract law and apply this knowledge practically.
  • Have a commercial approach which proactively identifies & regularly proposes savings within the business.

Essential Technical Expertise
  • Financial and Commercial awareness
  • Effective cost control
  • Accurate and on-time reporting
  • Excellent negotiation skills
  • IT skills (Cost systems & Microsoft office)
  • Work well as part of a team
  • Work under own initiative with minimal supervision
  • Have a comprehensive and current understanding of the building industry with specialisms in commercial departments

Salary and Benefits
Stewart Milne Group is proud to develop our employees, offering career development and promotion opportunities across the Group.
  • Competitive Salary
  • Generous Annual Leave (32 days)
  • Life Assurance
  • Private Health & Private Medical Insurance
  • Bonus Scheme
  • Pension Scheme
  • Staff House Discount
  • Flexible Benefits Package

If this sounds like the right step for your career, please email [website]

Job Type:

Example 6

About Us: At Dalkia UK, we are on a mission to deliver technical solutions for a better society and to contribute to a Net Zero UK. Our 4,000-strong team of experts and advisors collaborates with clients and communities on some of the country’s most exciting and challenging projects. We specialize in providing energy, engineering, facilities management, and specialist services, all guided by our core values that shape our actions and interactions.

Role Overview: As a Senior Quantity Surveyor at Dalkia UK, you will play a pivotal role in leading all commercial aspects of our projects. This includes cost control, change management, risk management, and cost value reconciliations. You will be part of a dedicated team committed to excellence in delivering complex MEP projects, ranging from research laboratories to major hospitals, MOD projects, exhibition centres, and commercial offices.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead commercial aspects of groundbreaking projects. Your expertise will guide procurement, cost control, change management, risk management, and cost-value reconciliations.
  • Collaborate closely with stakeholders and dedicated project leads and report to our regional commercial manager.
  • Empower a talented team, including junior Quantity Surveyors, leveraging your strong negotiation and communication skills.

What You Bring:
  • A minimum of 5 years post-grad experience with a major MEP contractor is preferred. However, we welcome diverse experiences.
  • Proven track record leading major MEP schemes £10m+.
  • Strong negotiation and communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Nav is preferable.
*

What We Offer:
  • *Market Leading Package: *We offer competitive salaries along with market leading benefits including company stakeholder pension, car scheme and discount perks.
  • Dynamic Growth: Embark on exciting and unique projects supported by EDF, a global energy leader. Our project pipeline over the next few years offers unparalleled growth opportunities.
  • Professional Development: Benefit from our regular CPD and training opportunities including our in-house RICS Membership program, complete with workshops, one to one mentoring and mock interviews.
  • Visionary Team: Join a team with a stellar track record in delivering complex MEP projects.
  • Make an Impact: With our core values guiding every endeavor, be a part of a legacy that champions a sustainable, prosperous, and resilient society.



Why Choose Us: Backed by EDF, one of the world’s largest energy companies, we are poised to make a lasting impact. Our strong pipeline of exciting and unique projects across various sectors offers excellent opportunities for growth and progression. Join us in building a sustainable, prosperous, resilient society, and contribute to a Net Zero UK.



How to Apply: If you are a dynamic and experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor ready to take on exciting challenges, please apply or email a copy of your cv to [website]

Join us in shaping a brighter future!

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • Additional leave
  • Company pension
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Employee discount
  • Life insurance
  • Private medical insurance
  • Referral programme
  • Sick pay
  • Store discount
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus scheme



Education:
  • Bachelor's (preferred)

Experience:
  • surveying: 5 years (preferred)

Licence/Certification:
  • Driving Licence Location: In person

Example 7

Exciting Opportunity for Senior Quantity Surveyor

J&D Pierce (Contracts) Ltd is Scotland's premier steelwork contractor working on some of the UK's most exciting construction projects like Anfield Stadium, the National Innovation Centre, and Queen Street Station, changing the skyline of the UK.

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced senior quantity surveyor to join our commercial team located at our Glengarnock headquarters. As a senior quantity surveyor, you will play a crucial role in managing and overseeing the financial aspects of our steelwork construction projects. Your expertise in cost estimation, contract administration, and general project management will be essential in ensuring the successful completion of our projects on time and within budget.

Responsibilities:
  • Working alongside our quantity surveying team, providing guidance and support in all related activities.
  • Prepare accurate cost estimates for steelwork construction projects.
  • Analyse and evaluate subcontractor tenders, proposals, and contracts.
  • Monitor project costs, budget, and cash flow, ensuring adherence to pre-established financial targets.
  • Prepare and review contractual documents, negotiating terms and conditions when necessary.
  • Conduct risk analysis and develop strategies for minimising costs and optimising project profitability.
  • Collaborate with contractors, engineers, and other professionals to ensure accurate and comprehensive project documentation.

Requirements:
  • Degree in quantity surveying, construction management, or a related field would be preferable.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in quantity surveying within the construction industry.
  • Sound knowledge of construction contracts (NEC & JCT), regulations, and legislation.
  • Proven experience in cost estimation, budgeting, and financial analysis.
  • Identifying and valuing changes to work scope.
  • Proficient in using quantity surveying software and tools.
  • Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with clients, contractors, and team members.
  • Maintain high standards of attendance, punctuality, and personal appearance.
  • Employees actively adhere to the company values with conviction and enthusiasm.

What We Offer:
  • A competitive starting salary.
  • Inclusion in our company pension scheme.
  • Access to our subsidised canteen and on-site parking.
  • A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits and a cycle-to-work scheme.
  • Opportunities to acquire new skills and further your career.
  • A vibrant workplace with team-building events, an awards ceremony, and reward schemes.

If you meet the requirements of this position, have a passion for complex structural steel, and you are looking to contribute to our dynamic team, send your CV to [website] with the subject line "Senior Quantity Surveyor".

J&D Pierce is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply for our opportunities.

NO Agency CALLS OR Emails

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • Bereavement leave
  • Canteen
  • Company events
  • Company pension
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounted or free food
  • Free parking
  • Health & wellbeing programme
  • On-site parking
  • Transport links
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday



Application question(s):
  • Have you emailed your CV to [website] (This is essential for your application).

Work authorisation:
  • United Kingdom Location: In person
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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What does a Quantity Surveyor do?

Quantity Surveyors develop project budgets and schedules and make sure they’re on track. They also ensure projects run according to health and safety principles, which is important for ensuring that the projects operate legally and without injuries. In addition, 9212519quantity surveyor54.75assistant quantity surveyor10.37apprenticeship7.9trainee7.31senior quantity surveyor5.5916033117307018000.0051829.29103000.00YEARLY77791272025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Quantity Surveyors help clients manage their cash flow effectively. They help them keep their costs low without compromising on project quality or workplace safety. They also help clients know projected construction timelines so they can plan their finances and contingencies better.

Quantity Surveyor skills and qualifications

Quantity Surveyors use technical and soft skills to help clients receive the best value in their construction projects. They are systematic, organised and have a meticulous work ethic for interpreting architectural drawings and construction plans and making accurate calculations. Construction firms typically hire Quantity Surveyors with the following skills:

  • Verbal and written communication, including active listening for determining client needs, communicating them to the construction crew and preparing reports
  • Mathematics for calculating material quantities and construction costs
  • Customer service for client satisfaction
  • Analytical thinking and problem-solving
  • Understanding of engineering science, construction and technology
  • Understanding of current building, health and safety regulations
  • Computer literacy and confidence using office and electronic project management programs

9212519quantity surveyor54.75assistant quantity surveyor10.37apprenticeship7.9trainee7.31senior quantity surveyor5.5916033117307018000.0051829.29103000.00YEARLY77791272025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Quantity Surveyor experience requirements

Many employers prefer Quantity Surveyors with at least three years of experience in a similar role. However, people can become Quantity Surveyors without this experience. Working in similar positions, such as Assistant Quantity Surveyor, Surveying Technician or Surveying Assistant can equip candidates with many transferrable skills. Some employers also consider skilled people who’ve worked in construction or property maintenance.

Quantity Surveyor education and training requirements

Most Quantity Surveyors have a Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers a postgraduate conversion course that can help interested applicants get the qualifications they need. Degrees in construction, structural engineering and civil engineering are also valuable. People can even take the conversion course after completing a degree in maths, geography, land studies or economics. Candidates interested in quantity surveying who haven’t taken their A levels could get a surveying technician advanced apprenticeship or construction quantity surveyor degree apprenticeship instead.

Quantity Surveyor salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Quantity Surveyor is £46,290 per year. Salaries may vary depending on experience, education, location and employer.

Job description samples for similar positions

If a 9212519quantity surveyor54.75assistant quantity surveyor10.37apprenticeship7.9trainee7.31senior quantity surveyor5.5916033117307018000.0051829.29103000.00YEARLY77791272025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Quantity Surveyor job description does not suit your needs, you can consider the following samples for similar positions:

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Quantity Surveyor job description FAQs

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