Quantity Surveyor

A quantity surveyor is, in essence, the financial manager of a large engineering project who is tasked with maximizing the value of the project for his/her client by producing a most favorable balance of cost and quality. They may also be referred to as construction/engineering cost manager.A quantity surveyor is engaged in a project from the very beginning by working with clients and their contractors during the contract process and engaging in preliminary cost analysis. When this is complete and work begins, he/she keeps a constant vigil over the process and stays on the lookout for ways to improve the investment by producing regular profitability reports and keeping abreast of the evolution of the contract status; changes and potential changes are analyzed, reported, and implemented when desired. In many cases, quantity surveyors also assist in the acquisition of materials and work directly with (and sometimes recommend to hire – coordinate with HRD) the needed subcontractors. They also provide advice and assistance for various tasks following completion of the project if further changes are necessary.