What Is a Quantity Surveyor?
The construction professional who controls costs, manages contracts, and protects project margin from day one to final account.
Quick Answer
A quantity surveyor (QS) is a construction professional responsible for managing the financial and contractual aspects of a construction project — from initial cost planning and tendering through to final account. They keep projects within budget, administer contracts, manage subcontractor payments, and value variations. Most QS professionals hold an RICS or CIOB-accredited degree, with senior QS roles typically requiring MRICS chartered status.
What does a quantity surveyor do?
Cost planning & estimating
Producing detailed cost plans, budgets, and estimates at all RIBA stages of a project.
Tendering & procurement
Preparing tender packages, evaluating subcontractor bids, and managing the procurement process.
Contract administration
Managing JCT, NEC, and bespoke contracts — certifying payments, issuing variations, and enforcing programme.
CVR reporting
Producing monthly cost-value reconciliations (CVRs) and commercial reports for senior management.
QS career ladder in UK construction
| Role | Experience | Typical salary (UK, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate / Assistant QS | 0–3 years | £28,000 – £38,000 |
| QS / Intermediate QS | 3–6 years | £40,000 – £55,000 |
| Senior QS | 6–10 years | £55,000 – £75,000 |
| Commercial Manager | 10+ years | £70,000 – £100,000 |
| Head of Commercial / Director | 15+ years | £95,000 – £130,000+ |
Qualifications for quantity surveyors
RICS-accredited degree
BSc Quantity Surveying — the traditional entry route. Most senior QS roles in the UK require an RICS-accredited degree as a minimum.
MRICS (Chartered Surveyor)
Achieved by passing the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). Required for most Commercial Manager and above roles.
HNC / HND Construction
A less traditional entry route, often combined with industry experience and CPD. Accepted by some employers at intermediate QS level.
CIOB accreditation
The Chartered Institute of Building also accredits quantity surveying and commercial management degrees. MCIOB is recognised alongside MRICS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications does a quantity surveyor need?
Most QS professionals hold an RICS or CIOB-accredited degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management. Senior roles often require MRICS (chartered) status, achieved via the APC (Assessment of Professional Competence). HNC/HND routes are also used, particularly for those who entered the industry through site roles.
What is the difference between a QS and a commercial manager?
A QS manages costs and contracts at project level. A commercial manager oversees commercial performance across multiple projects or a business division, with strategic responsibility. Commercial manager is typically the next step up from Senior QS.
Is quantity surveying a good career?
Quantity surveying offers excellent earning potential, strong demand across all construction sectors, and clear progression from graduate through to commercial director. Demand for QS professionals consistently outstrips supply in the UK, making it one of the more job-secure construction disciplines.
How much does a quantity surveyor earn in the UK?
Graduate/Assistant QS: £28,000–£38,000. Intermediate QS: £40,000–£55,000. Senior QS: £55,000–£75,000. Commercial Manager: £70,000–£100,000+. Freelance day rates: £300–£600/day depending on experience and location.
What industries do quantity surveyors work in?
QS professionals work across all construction sectors: residential housebuilding, commercial, fit-out, civil engineering, infrastructure, M&E, and social housing. They can work client-side (as employer's QS), for main contractors, specialist subcontractors, or consultancy/PQS practices.
Can Phoenix Gray place quantity surveyors?
Yes — we place QS professionals from Graduate to Commercial Director level across housebuilding, main contracting, fit-out, and M&E sectors. Both permanent and interim/contract QS placements.
Looking to hire a Quantity Surveyor?
Phoenix Gray places QS professionals from Graduate to Commercial Director across housebuilding, main contracting, fit-out, and M&E. Permanent and interim roles.