While a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying opens doors to rewarding careers with decent salaries, ambitious graduates with an eye on the upper echelons of the pay scale might find a postgraduate degree to be the missing puzzle piece. This is particularly true in the dynamic field of quantity surveying in civil engineering, where specialised skills and advanced business acumen can be a powerful differentiator. Â
This article explores how an MBA can act as a catalyst for quantity surveyors in civil engineering, propelling them towards high-paying leadership and specialist roles.
What are the factors affecting the salary of a quantity surveyor?
The salary of a quantity surveyor hinges on not one but a couple of factors. All these factors when combined together decide what payscale you’d have. These factors are enumerated below:
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Experience
As with most careers, experience is a significant salary booster. The longer you’re in the field, the more valuable you become.
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Location
Geographic location plays a role. Big cities and regions with booming construction industries often offer higher salaries.
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Specialisation
Specific specialisations within quantity surveying may command a premium. We’ll explore these in detail.
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Employer
Salary structures can vary between contracting firms, consultancies, and government agencies.
What are the top-paying surveying jobs for graduates?
I have enlisted some of the highest-paying options for recent graduates in quantity surveying, considering both base salary and potential for growth:
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Project Quantity Surveyor
Responsible for cost estimating, procurement, and contract management for specific projects. This role offers hands-on experience and early exposure to project lifecycles, leading to quick salary increases.
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Estimator Quantity Surveyor
Focuses on creating highly accurate cost estimates for projects during the bidding stage. The ability to influence project feasibility from the outset can be highly valued, leading to solid earning potential.
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Consultant Quantity Surveyor
Works within consultancies, advising clients on various aspects of cost management. Consulting firms often offer competitive salaries and opportunities for rapid career progression.
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International Quantity Surveyor
Specialises in international construction projects. This role requires additional skills like cultural awareness and an understanding of global construction practices. The global demand for such expertise can translate to a significant salary premium.
How can you enhance your demand as a quantity surveyor?
A graduate’s most feasible option is to go for a postgraduate degree. A master’s degree sometimes leads to a higher starting salary or faster promotion opportunities. In this case, the degree that makes the most sense is an MBA in construction economics and quantity surveying!Â
It unlocks significant earning potential and equips you with the expertise to navigate the dynamic landscape of Industry 4.0. Imagine yourself as a sought-after specialist, proficient at cost control and strategic decision-making.Â
This specialised MBA empowers you to excel in diverse roles across the construction sector—from real estate development to international contracting firms. It transforms you from a quantity surveyor into a strategic financial partner. It acts as a key decision-maker driving Construction Project Management towards success.
You can enrol with RICS SBE for the same. In fact, their MBA admission portal is now open!
Summing up
A rewarding career awaits you in quantity surveying. By focusing on experience, specialisation, and skill development, you can position yourself for success in the field’s highest-paying positions. Remember, combining technical expertise, business acumen, strong work ethic, and an eagerness to learn will pave the way for a fulfilling and financially secure career path.
