How to become a quantity surveyor
Estimate and monitor the costs of building and infrastructure construction and maintenance.
Pathways to this career
- Complete an accredited tertiary qualification in surveying, architecture or construction management.
- You may need to register with an industry board or association. Check with your state or territory before commencing work as a quantity surveyor.
- Advance your career with further study. A postgraduate surveying degree can help you get to the next level.
- Search for internships, work experience or volunteer opportunities while you're studying. Gaining experience before graduation may improve your chances of employment.
What does a quantity surveyor do?
Quantity Surveyors undertake tax depreciation, insurance estimation, mediation and arbitration. They work closely with architects, financiers, engineers, contractors, suppliers, project owners, property developers, accountants, insurance underwriters, solicitors and courts, and with all levels of government.
Duties and tasks
- Measure and estimate construction costs and cost planning
- Produce project budgeting for feasibility studies
- Contract administration and reporting
- Assess project risk and cost reporting for financial institutions
- Life cycle costing and replacement reporting
Professional bodies
- Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors
- Engineers Australia
- Master Builders Australia
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
Related jobs
- Architect
- Building contractor
- Building estimator
- Building site manager
- Construction economist
- Civil engineer
- Cost engineer
- Property developer
- Urban and regional planner
Discover related courses
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UndergraduateCUR-HCM-CTF
Your introduction to construction
Study 4 core subjects in construction management—and get entry and credit in Curtin’s Bachelor Degree. Study low-rise and high-rise construction, including how to manage sites. Start thinking about your career in estimating, contract admin and more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
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Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management)
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Manage construction projects with confidence
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- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
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- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
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Lay the foundations for a career as an architect
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- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
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Technical and creative skills to transform the built environment
From drawing to design, and large buildings to cities, this online masters covers the full suite of architectural skills and knowledge. Through projects and a major thesis, you’ll graduate ready to pursue architect registration in Australia.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
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