If you’re an excellent negotiator, decent problem-solver and have an analytical mind then a career as a Quantity Surveyor could be for you.
Career Overview
Quantity Surveyors are the people who make sure that construction projects are completed within the projected budget. Part of their role includes managing all the contractual and financial issues regarding projects. Being a surveyor demands high levels of analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills. All mentioned skills are exercised regularly for this career.
Required School Subjects
You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:
- English (Home Language or First Additional Language)
- Pure Mathematics
- Physical Science
Recommended subjects:
- Geography
Institution and APS
The following institutions are highly recommended for studies for becoming a Quantity Surveyor:
- University of Pretoria (UP): APS of 30
- University of Cape Town (UCT): Faculty Point Score (FPS) of 75
- University of Witwatersrand (Wits): APS of 36
Required Qualification/s
A Bachelor’s Degree in either surveying, civil or structural engineer or construction. However, some organisations are willing to accept a Higher Certificate in a relevant programme or a Diploma.
Required Skills
You will need to have the following skills to succeed as a Quantity Surveyor:
- Numerical Skills
- Problem-solving
- Analytical Skills
- Data Interpretation Skills
- Team worker
- Interpersonal Skills
- Communication Skills
- Presentation Skills
- IT Skills and Computer Literacy
Where you can work
As a Quantity Surveyor, you will be able to work in any of the following environments:
- Construction Contractors
- Project Management Consultancies
- Civil Engineering Contractors
- Property Firms
- Local Authorities
- Specialist Surveying Practices
Working Hours
Working hours are project based. When there is no project, working hours are the standard 8am – 5pm, Monday through Friday. Some projects might require more times to meet deadlines.
Expected Salary
Current estimated annual salary is between R175 000 and R591 000 in South Africa, with the estimated average being R332 574. Most Quantity Surveyors are contractors and earn a salary at an hourly rate. The current estimated average rate is R99.26. Experience and qualifications are factors that contribute to what the salary will be.
What to expect
Here are a few things you can expect from a career as a Quantity Surveyor:
- High volumes of site visits – this helps in observing the rate at which work gets carried out
- Wearing protective equipment is part of visiting sites/plants
- Travel takes place constantly – it’s more common for a Quantity Surveyor to work outdoors on site locations than indoors
- Career is challenging and demanding, both mentally and physically
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