Quantity Surveyor Jobs in the UK (2026 Guide) | Roles, Skills & Career Outlook
25/02/2026
Quantity Surveyor Jobs in the UK: Complete Career Guide
Quantity Surveyor jobs remain one of the most critical roles within the UK construction industry. As infrastructure development, residential housing, and commercial projects continue expanding in 2026, cost management professionals are in strong demand.
A Quantity Surveyor (QS) is responsible for managing project costs, ensuring value for money, and maintaining financial efficiency from initial planning through final completion. These professionals play a vital role in protecting project budgets while maintaining quality standards.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Quantity Surveyor jobs — including responsibilities, qualifications, required skills, salary expectations, and future industry outlook.
What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?
The primary responsibility of a Quantity Surveyor is cost control. However, the role extends far beyond budgeting.
Core Responsibilities:
- Preparing cost estimates and project budgets
- Managing contracts and tender documentation
- Conducting feasibility studies
- Monitoring project expenditure
- Managing variations and change orders
- Risk assessment and financial forecasting
- Negotiating with contractors and suppliers
Quantity Surveyors ensure projects are delivered within budget while complying with contractual and legal standards.
Types of Quantity Surveyor Roles
1. Assistant Quantity Surveyor
Entry-level support role assisting senior QS professionals.
2. Project Quantity Surveyor
Responsible for managing costs on individual construction projects.
3. Senior Quantity Surveyor
Oversees large-scale budgets and supervises junior surveyors.
4. Commercial Manager
Leads commercial strategy and financial performance of major developments.
Skills Required for Quantity Surveyor Jobs
To succeed in Quantity Surveyor jobs, professionals need both technical expertise and commercial awareness.
Technical Skills:
- Construction cost analysis
- Contract law knowledge
- Budget forecasting
- Risk management
- Procurement strategy
Soft Skills:
- Negotiation
- Communication
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
Strong financial acumen combined with project management understanding is essential.
Qualifications & Certifications
Most Quantity Surveyors hold:
- BSc in Quantity Surveying or Construction Management
- MSc in Commercial Management (optional for advancement)
Professional accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) significantly enhances career progression and earning potential.
Becoming a Chartered Quantity Surveyor through RICS is considered a major professional milestone.
Salary Expectations in the UK (2026)
While salaries vary by region and experience level:
- Assistant QS: £28,000 – £35,000
- Project QS: £40,000 – £55,000
- Senior QS: £60,000 – £75,000+
- Commercial Manager: £75,000 – £95,000+
London and major infrastructure hubs often offer higher compensation due to project scale.
Industry Demand & Job Outlook
The UK construction sector continues expanding across:
- Residential housing developments
- Infrastructure projects
- Renewable energy installations
- Commercial property development
With increased government investment in infrastructure and sustainability, Quantity Surveyor jobs are projected to remain in steady demand through 2026 and beyond.
Digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) are also reshaping cost planning, creating opportunities for tech-savvy QS professionals.
Career Progression Path
A typical career path includes:
Assistant QS → Project QS → Senior QS → Commercial Manager → Commercial Director
Some professionals move into consultancy, contract advisory, or independent cost management firms.
Work Environment
Quantity Surveyors typically split their time between:
- Office-based financial planning
- On-site cost monitoring
- Client meetings
- Contractor negotiations
The role requires both technical precision and strategic thinking.
What do Quantity Surveyor jobs involve?
Quantity Surveyor jobs involve managing construction project costs, preparing budgets, overseeing contracts, controlling financial risk, and ensuring projects are delivered within agreed budgets while maintaining quality standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are Quantity Surveyor jobs in high demand in the UK?
Yes. Ongoing infrastructure and housing developments maintain steady demand for qualified cost management professionals.
2. Do you need RICS accreditation to become a Quantity Surveyor?
While not mandatory for entry-level roles, RICS accreditation significantly improves career prospects and earning potential.
3. What industries hire Quantity Surveyors?
Construction companies, property developers, infrastructure firms, engineering consultancies, and government agencies employ QS professionals.
4. Is Quantity Surveying a stressful job?
The role involves financial responsibility and deadlines, but structured project management processes help manage workload effectively.
5. Can Quantity Surveyors work internationally?
Yes. RICS accreditation allows mobility in many global markets.
