Quantity Surveyor

Academy Education Network Ltd; Bristol; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Academy Education Network Ltd seeks Quantity Surveyors (QS) responsible for managing the commercial aspects of construction projects. This role ensures projects are delivered on time and within budget, involving tasks such as estimating costs and negotiating contracts.

Candidates should possess a relevant degree and aim for RICS Chartered Surveyor status (MRICS). The position offers clear career progression from Graduate QS to QS Director in the UK construction industry.

Qualifications

• Most UK QS roles require progression to RICS Chartered Surveyor status (MRICS).
• Candidates should have a relevant degree.
• Post‑graduate conversion MSc in Quantity Surveying is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Estimate, control and report on construction project costs.
• Negotiate contracts, variations and final accounts.
• Work for tier-one contractors, major consultancies, developers and the public sector.

Skills

Negotiation across subcontractors, designers and clients

Attention to detail under commercial pressure

Clear written and verbal communication

Pragmatic problem-solving

Ethical decision-making (RICS Rules of Conduct)

Education

Relevant degree in quantity surveying, civil engineering, architecture or a related discipline

Job description

Quantity Surveyors (QS) are responsible for managing the commercial aspects of construction projects, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Responsibilities

• Estimate, control and report on construction project costs
• Negotiate contracts, variations and final accounts
• Specialise into pre‑contract (PQS), post‑contract (contractor‑side) or commercial management
• Work for tier‑one contractors, major consultancies, developers and the public sector

Qualifications & Experience

Most UK QS roles require or incentivise progression to RICS Chartered Surveyor status (MRICS) through the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). Candidates should have a relevant degree in quantity surveying, civil engineering, architecture or a related discipline.

UK Salary Ranges

Graduate QS at tier‑one contractors or consultancies start at £30,000–£38,000. Chartered QS (MRICS) reach £50,000–£65,000, with senior chartered roles reaching £75,000–£100,000. QS Directors at major firms earn £100,000–£180,000+.

Typical Entry Routes

• Post‑graduate conversion MSc in Quantity Surveying (1 year, RICS‑accredited)
• Quantity Surveying Apprenticeship (4 years, Level 6/7, fully funded)
• Overseas‑qualified surveyor route via RICS mutual‑recognition agreements with professional bodies abroad

Skills You’ll Need

• Negotiation across subcontractors, designers and clients
• Attention to detail under commercial pressure
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Pragmatic problem‑solving
• Ethical decision‑making (RICS Rules of Conduct)

Career Progression

• Graduate QS (0–2 years) – learn core skills under supervision, start APC.
• Assistant QS / QS (2–4 years) – manage own cost packages, complete APC.
• Chartered QS (4–8 years) – lead commercial management on major projects, mentor junior staff.
• Commercial Manager / QS Director (8 years +) – strategic leadership across large programmes or regional units.