Quantity Surveyors in UK – how could you earn more?
With the Quantity Surveyor market busier than ever it’s only natural that even the most content professionals are curious to know what the market is paying. So, if you are a Quantity Surveyor and wondering how you could increase your salary, you have come to the right place.
On average how much money can you expect to earn in London compared to other areas of the UK?
Candidates looking at working in London, or the surrounding counties, can typically expect up to a 20% – 30% rise in salary to compensate them for the increased cost of living in the capital. A quantity surveyor in Northern Ireland is set to earn the least with the salary being on average 27.5% less than the average national salary for QS jobs, however the cost of living is lower in Northern Ireland.
What experience range is most in demand?
Despite Brexit, the UK construction industry is set to grow from strength to strength. The skills shortage in relation to Quantity Surveying falls more within the junior to intermediate level.
If you are a Quantity Surveyor with anywhere between 2 through to 10 years good experience, you will be sought after. Surveyors within this bracket of experience will tend to be Assistant through to Senior level.
What sector provides the highest salary?
The nuclear sector remains the place to be if you are looking for the highest salaries.
Nuclear – £50,000
Construction – £45,000
Rail / Civil / Structural – £43,000
Water – £42,000
What can I do to increase my chance of getting a higher salary offer?
The more skills you have on your CV and can demonstrate, the more valuable of an asset you are to an employer due to your versatility within the business.
Here are a list of skills and points employers look out for on your CV;
- Continued commitment to further education
- Leadership skills
- Project management skills
- Strong contractual knowledge
- Experience on major projects
- Working on projects from start to completion
Will you get a higher salary working on the client side or the contracting side of the construction industry?
In general, salaries for a Quantity Surveyor are typically higher working for a main contractor than those working for a Consultancy or a Client.
That being said, the difference is minimal and can vary on what industry within Quantity Surveying you are working in.
Will I work more hours working within a consultancy or as a contractor?
If you worked out your salary on a ‘per hour’ basis, you would probably see that you earn more per hour working for a Consultancy. However, this again would be a minimal difference.
Typical hours worked:
- Consultancy / Client: On average 37.5 – 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday
- Contractor – On average 40 – 45 hours per week, Monday – Friday
If you are looking for your next role, or would like an informal chat with one of our expert consultants then get in touch today on 01489 774 010.