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Civil Quantity Surveyor

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Civil Quantity Surveyors manage construction costs, ensuring projects stay within budget. They analyze plans, estimate expenses, and track project finances.

Average Salary

₹4,50,000

Growth

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Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for a Civil Quantity Surveyor

To become a successful Civil Quantity Surveyor in India, a combination of academic qualifications and practical skills is essential. Here's a breakdown of the typical educational path:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Quantity Surveying is generally required.
    • These programs provide a strong foundation in construction principles, materials, and cost management.
  • Diploma Courses:
    • Diploma courses in Civil Engineering or Quantity Surveying can also be a starting point.
    • However, a bachelor's degree is often preferred for career advancement.
  • Key Skills:
    • Strong mathematical and analytical skills are crucial for accurate cost estimation.
    • Proficiency in using software like AutoCAD, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and cost estimation tools is highly valued.
    • Excellent communication and negotiation skills are needed to interact with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders.
  • Further Education:
    • A Master's degree in Construction Management or Quantity Surveying can enhance career prospects and open doors to more specialized roles.
  • Certifications:
    • Professional certifications from recognized organizations can demonstrate competence and credibility.
    • Examples include certifications from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or similar professional bodies.

Important Points:

  • Focus on developing a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and regulations.
  • Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in construction companies or consulting firms.
  • Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies through continuous learning and professional development.
Study Path
Top Colleges

To pursue a career as a Civil Quantity Surveyor in India, consider these top colleges offering relevant courses:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):
    • Offer B.Tech and M.Tech programs in Civil Engineering and Construction Management.
    • Campuses: IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Kanpur.
  • National Institutes of Technology (NITs):
    • Provide B.Tech and M.Tech programs in Civil Engineering and related fields.
    • Campuses: NIT Trichy, NIT Warangal, NIT Surathkal, NIT Calicut.
  • Other Reputed Engineering Colleges:
    • Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani: Offers Civil Engineering programs.
    • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore: Provides Civil Engineering and Construction Management courses.
    • Anna University, Chennai: Offers Civil Engineering programs with specializations.
    • Delhi Technological University (DTU), Delhi: Provides Civil Engineering programs.
  • NICMAR University, Pune:
    • Specializes in Construction Management and offers programs specifically tailored for quantity surveying.
  • Government Engineering Colleges:
    • Many state government engineering colleges offer affordable Civil Engineering programs.
    • Examples: College of Engineering Pune (COEP), Government College of Technology (GCT) Coimbatore.

Courses to Consider:

  • B.Tech/B.E. in Civil Engineering
  • Diploma in Civil Engineering
  • M.Tech/M.E. in Construction Management or related fields
  • Quantity Surveying specific courses/certifications (offered by some private institutes)

When choosing a college, consider factors like faculty expertise, infrastructure, placement records, and accreditation.

Fees

The fees for courses related to becoming a Civil Quantity Surveyor in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution (government vs. private), the level of the course (diploma, bachelor's, master's), and the location.

  • Diploma Courses:
    • Government Polytechnic Colleges: ₹10,000 - ₹30,000 per year
    • Private Polytechnic Colleges: ₹30,000 - ₹1,00,000 per year
  • Bachelor's Degree (B.Tech/B.E. in Civil Engineering):
    • Government Engineering Colleges: ₹20,000 - ₹50,000 per year
    • Private Engineering Colleges: ₹80,000 - ₹2,50,000 per year
  • Master's Degree (M.Tech/M.E. in Construction Management/Quantity Surveying):
    • Government Engineering Colleges/IITs/NITs: ₹30,000 - ₹70,000 per year
    • Private Engineering Colleges: ₹1,00,000 - ₹3,50,000 per year

Additional Costs:

  • Application Fees: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per application
  • Hostel Fees (if applicable): ₹20,000 - ₹60,000 per year
  • Examination Fees: ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 per semester
  • Study Materials: ₹5,000 - ₹15,000 per year

Notes:

  • Fees are subject to change and vary across institutions.
  • Government colleges generally have lower fees compared to private colleges.
  • Scholarships and financial aid options are available for deserving students.
Related Exams

To excel as a Civil Quantity Surveyor, while there aren't specific entrance exams directly targeting this role after graduation, several exams and certifications can significantly boost your career prospects:

  • GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering):
    • While primarily for M.Tech admissions, a good GATE score in Civil Engineering can open doors to specialized master's programs in Construction Management or related fields, enhancing your QS skills.
  • RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Certifications:
    • RICS offers various certifications relevant to quantity surveying. These certifications are globally recognized and demonstrate a high level of competence.
    • Preparing for RICS assessments involves demonstrating your knowledge and experience in quantity surveying practices.
  • Government Exams (for Public Sector Jobs):
    • Various Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and government departments hire civil engineers who may work as quantity surveyors.
    • These organizations conduct their own exams, focusing on civil engineering principles and general aptitude.
  • Software Proficiency Certifications:
    • Certifications in relevant software like AutoCAD, BIM (Revit, etc.), and cost estimation tools can enhance your employability.
    • These certifications validate your practical skills and knowledge of industry-standard software.

Preparing for these exams and certifications requires a strong understanding of civil engineering principles, quantity surveying practices, and relevant software. Focus on building a solid foundation through your bachelor's degree and gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions.

Exam NameExam Date
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Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High demand in the construction industry.
  2. Competitive salary and benefits packages.
  3. Opportunity for career advancement and specialization.
  4. Involvement in diverse and challenging projects.
  5. Potential for international work opportunities.
  6. Contribution to the development of infrastructure.
  7. Intellectual stimulation through problem-solving.
  8. Job security due to the essential nature of the role.
  9. Opportunity to work independently or in teams.
  10. Continuous learning and professional development.

Cons

  1. High level of responsibility and accountability.
  2. Pressure to meet deadlines and budgets.
  3. Potential for disputes and conflicts with stakeholders.
  4. Requirement for meticulous attention to detail.
  5. Need to stay updated with changing regulations.
  6. Can be a stressful job due to project complexities.
  7. May involve working long hours.
  8. Travel to construction sites may be required.
  9. Risk of errors in cost estimation.
  10. Competition for jobs in certain regions.