Will the demand for quantity surveying rise or die in 2025?

Demand for quantity surveying can change and evolve year on year

Demand for quantity surveying can change and evolve year on year. As the construction industry changes so too will the landscape of quantity surveying. The role of a quantity surveyor is essential for many reasons.

Quantity surveying is a profession that assists in the pre-construction, construction, and post-construction phases of a building project. They provide cost management advice by calculating exact costs for materials and labour, as well as helping to negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors. Quantity surveyors will also use their expertise to minimise risks associated with a construction project.

What is the typical demand for quantity surveying?

Quantity surveying is a key factor in the construction process, and its demand is currently flourishing due to the expanding growth of the building industry and our society’s mounting requirements.

As demand is high, so too is the need for businesses to recruit the right talent for the role. Understanding the role of a quantity surveyor is essential. Knowing the scope of responsibilities as well as the benefits enables construction companies to hire the right people. Working with a recruiter who understands the demand and skills necessary for this role is important.

How useful is quantity surveying?

Quantity surveying has a host of advantages that make it an invaluable tool for any project. Not only does quantity surveying help to decrease the cost and maximise profits, but its use also guarantees quality control is maintained throughout construction. It facilitates budgeting, scheduling and dispute resolution between contractors and clients alike – making sure all parties can come away satisfied with the results.

How will quantity surveying evolve?

As the construction industry continues to evolve, so too will the role of quantity surveying. This will likely involve more emphasis on digital and software solutions for project management and cost control, as well as a greater focus on collaboration between multiple stakeholders involved in a construction project.

Additionally, with an increased emphasis on sustainability and green building practices, quantity surveyors will need to be knowledgeable about the latest energy-efficient materials and technologies. Read our blog on how going green can actually increase construction jobs.

Overall, the demand for quantity surveying is likely to remain high in the years ahead as it plays a critical role in helping construction projects run smoothly and efficiently; while also protecting against risks and ensuring quality standards are met. With new technologies and practices emerging in the construction industry, quantity surveyors will need to stay up to date in order to remain relevant and valuable. Being stuck in the past will only result in a lack of growth for those who are unable to move forwards and advance their roles.

Here at FBR, we work with many construction businesses to find the right talent for you. Working directly in the industry allows us to accurately match the right candidate for the right role. Our team is dedicated to quality, we understand the importance of regulations within the construction industry, which is why we pre-vet out candidates to ensure they have the relevant qualifications necessary. Contact our team today to see how we can help you grow your team and recruit the best talent.


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What construction jobs are there?

different types of construction jobs

The construction industry is huge and contains many different types of jobs. As recruiters in the construction industry, we often find ourselves being asked by candidates “What construction jobs are there?” 

The interesting answer to this question is simple; all types of construction jobs. A construction company requires many different types of skills and people to keep the company running smoothly. 

Construction jobs aren’t just limited to labourers and on-site construction workers. There are many other different types of construction roles that need to be filled. Let’s look at the different types of construction jobs that are available for those who are interested in working in construction. 

Office based construction jobs

While the most common jobs relating to construction are onsite roles, there are also office based roles directly related to construction work. For the sake of simplicity, we will not cover more standard roles such as HR and accounts; while a construction company may require those roles, they aren’t directly involved in construction work. 

CAD designer 

CAD designers or often referred to as CAD draughtsman are responsible for creating the outlines and blueprints of a project. They will be required to go onsite to collect the relevant data and information they need to complete their drawings and outlines. However, once the information is collected they will need access to specific software to create the plans. 

Contracts manager

Contract managers are required to organise and prepare contracts for work to be carried out. This can be from organising the contract for additional labour, hiring required equipment, and more. They will ensure that each contract is carried out as smoothly as possible as well as chase up any enquiries relating to a project. They will work closely with the project manager and help with any additional tasks the project manager needs. 

On site construction jobs

On site construction jobs are probably the most known construction roles. These job roles are essential to the work being carried out and require training as well as additional health and safety qualifications. 

Labourers

Labourers are an essential role for all construction companies. Without labourers, construction work wouldn’t be carried out on many projects. From building foundations to organising the materials on site, no day is identical. Labourers are integral to construction work.

Site managers 

Site managers are responsible for ensuring that everything runs smoothly on-site. From organising the construction crew to consulting with the project manager and contracts manager. Site managers keep the construction site organised and working efficiently. 

Hybrid construction job roles

Beyond on-site construction roles and office based construction roles, there are some roles in construction which will be a mix of the two. This means you will spend time on site as well as off site.

Project managers 

Project managers are the definition of hybrid construction roles. Their time is split between being on-site managing the project overall and meeting with the site manager and clients prospectively. 

They also spend part of their time in meetings and in the office discussing and managing further aspects of the project from finances to contracts and more. Project managers ensure that construction projects are run efficiently and smoothly from start to finish at the top level down. 

Understanding each role within the construction industry can help you decide which career path to take. There are a wide range of roles in the construction industry and this blog only covers the most well-known jobs. For more information on jobs within the construction industry view our jobs board.

Contact the team at FBR if you are looking for a new role in the construction industry. 


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What qualifications are there in the construction industry | Construction qualification break down

Construction qualifications can be confusing for many people. There are many roles within construction and understanding what qualifications you need can seem complex

Construction qualifications can be confusing for many people. There are many roles within construction and understanding what qualifications you need can seem complex. This can be due to the fact that some roles may not require a specific qualification related to that field of construction work and only a more general construction degree. 

The construction industry is responsible for the way our society works, the residential areas we have, roads and highways, as well as other factors in our lives. The UK wouldn’t be as it is without vital construction workers. It is for this reason alone that having the right qualifications for your role is essential to providing safe working conditions and results. 

What construction qualifications are there 

Depending on the job you are looking for there are different types of qualifications that you may need. Each section of construction has its own qualification, such as;

  • Carpentry
  • Bricklaying
  • Plastering 
  • Property maintenance 
  • Plant operations 
  • Roofing 
  • Civil engineering
  • Canals and waterways (Heritage)

Your way into each of these industries in construction can vary. For many, the option to attend college is the first choice. There are a variety of colleges that offer qualifications in any of the above specialities in construction.

Other alternatives are apprenticeship programs which are offered by various awarding bodies. Your employer or potential employer will be able to talk you through your choice of apprenticeship, as well as the position which works for the company.

Qualification providers such as City and Guilds, and CIBT, among others are common providers within the industry.

What additional qualifications are useful in the construction industry

Bolstering up your qualifications and certificates is always a bonus for any construction worker. Additional qualifications can be extremely beneficial such as;

  • Health and safety certificates
  • First aid certificates
  • CSCS cards 
  • Forklift truck licences 

These additional qualifications are a bonus, unless your role specifies the need for these certifications. 

What job roles require specific qualifications

While there are many qualifications that construction workers can obtain for their specific discipline. Not all construction roles require specific qualifications, although they are beneficial to your career progression. 

These are a few of the construction jobs which require specific qualifications in order to work within the role:

  • Arbitrator
  • Building surveys
  • Site engineer 
  • Building engineer
  • Quantity surveyors
  • Estimator 
  • Construction manager 

There are many different routes into construction work, depending on the role you are looking at your way into that position may be different. Understanding the essential qualifications you need in order to obtain that job role is key. 

Adding additional qualifications to help support your career progression is always going to be beneficial. Many construction companies encourage additional training as it offers great benefits to the company and industry as a whole. 

Working with a recruitment agency that understands the construction industry is essential. Our recruitment agents have vast experience within the industry and will be able to help you understand the qualifications you need for your dream role. Contact our recruitment team today to see how we can help you achieve your perfect job in construction. Or view our jobs board for our current vacancies. 


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Is construction a good career path? Why or why not?

building a career in construction

As each industry evolves with society and technology, one common theme that is asked of us as recruiters is whether or not construction is a good career path. This question expands across all industries, but since we are heavily focused on construction recruitment let’s look at this in more detail.

Construction as an industry is one that will never cease to exist. In some shape or format, there will always be a need and demand for skilled construction workers. The construction industry is what enables our society to travel through countries as we do, as well as have the homes and infrastructure that we have. 

Construction as an industry is essential. However, that does not mean it is right for you. Consider all that is involved in construction and decide whether or not construction is a good career path for you. 

The pros and cons of working in construction

Each industry, each role, has its own good things and bad things. It all depends on what you are looking for and what you are happy to do in order to work within a role you enjoy. 

Construction career paths are not immune to this either. Each person’s preference ultimately drives whether or not they enjoy an aspect of their role. Some prefer to work outdoors, while others prefer to do a desk job. 

The construction industry has a vast number of jobs and each is different. Read in more detail about the pros and cons of construction, but take it with a grain of salt. What you enjoy and like will ultimately be different to someone else. 

Job opportunities in construction 

There are a wide variety of job opportunities in the construction industry. The first thing to consider is which avenue you want to work in. 

There are various entry level positions available within the construction industry. Such as: 

  • Labourers 
  • Ground workers 
  • Finishing floormen

Opportunities are always available within the construction industry due to the continued demand and development of key parts of society. Working with a recruitment agent will open you up to all the possible job opportunities available within the industry. 

How to build a career in construction

The way one person builds a career in construction will vary depending on their age, skills, qualifications and experience. For some, they began working in construction from an early age and continued to expand based on the opportunities provided to them.

Others decided on a more direct career path through specific qualifications gained at college and university. Another way into construction work is by working with an apprenticeship scheme. This will provide you with the ability to learn on the job and gain the experience required to continue your career.

There is no right or wrong way into building a career in construction. The important thing to do is research the part of the industry you wish to work in and tailor your opportunities around that. 

Continue working on key skills to help you grow within the industry and develop your career. You can do this by going on all relevant training courses, and asking if there are any other opportunities available for you to expand your knowledge. 

Employers are keen to help people develop their skills as it ultimately benefits the business in the long run.

Here at FBR, our construction recruitment specialists are able to help you find the role that is right for you. Helping you check your qualifications, experience and ultimately guide you into the right career path. Contact our team today or view our jobs board for current vacancies.



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Red flags in interviews | What you should look out for in your next job interview

All job interviews can be daunting for candidates, many feel like they are put under interrogation and have to perform to be in with a chance of securing a second interview or job offer. 

While it is currently an employees market, which means there are many jobs on offer. That doesn’t always mean green flags. There are several things we have heard from candidates about worrying red flags in interviews. So in the spirit of being honest and shedding the truth about our industry, let’s look at things you should look out for in your next job interview. 

Vague responses 

If a potential employer is unable to answer your questions with clarity it is something to worry about. While you may wish to reword your question to help achieve a more detailed response, it might not be enough. 

As a candidate, you need to know all the information that is necessary to help you make a decision. If a potential employer is giving vague answers to simple questions such as salary information, company policies, benefits, as well as the tasks you will be expected to do in that role. It’s a red flag of the highest degree.

Worrying work culture

Work culture can be a fantastic part of working for a company. After all, we spend the majority of our time working so it is important that we get along with our colleagues as well as enjoy the time we spend working at a company. 

Worrying work culture can be anything from comments like “We don’t take our lunch breaks we’re too busy”. Another term which seems to be worrying people across social media is “we’re like a family”. This can be a red flag if companies are using this excuse to overload employees with work or guilt trip them into not using their annual leave because the “family” needs you. 

Work culture is great, when it benefits the employee as well as the company. Don’t mistake a pingpong table for work culture. 

Misaligned beliefs

One of the most common reasons why people leave a job isn’t because of salary or the job itself. But for misaligned beliefs. If a potential employer isn’t showing the same beliefs that you have, for example, work life balance, flexibility, ethics, etc, it won’t work out in the long run.

Working for a company is kind of like a relationship, you need to make sure you are suited to the role and the company for it to truly work out for everyone involved. 

Subverting the true details of a job role

Any company that is subverting the true details of a role just to get candidates to interview is a huge red flag. 

As a candidate, you need to know exactly what role you are applying for and what would be expected of you. If a company isn’t honest from the get-go, it’s not a great start for a good working relationship.

How to deal with red flags during an interview

So we’ve looked at some of the most common red flags candidates face, the question then becomes what can you do? There are a couple of things you can do before you head into an interview. 

Speak with a recruitment agent

Working with a reliable recruitment agency can be extremely beneficial for candidates. There are many clauses that recruiters have in the contracts they create when working with a company and those can also protect the candidate. 

Recruitment agencies are built on finding the best candidates for the right roles. This means there has been some pre-vetting done for the job as well as ensuring that the agents understand what the company is looking for. 

Prepare for your interview 

This is something you will do without question, however, beyond the basic preparation of looking into a company and making notes. Prepare by understanding what you are looking for from a role. Know what you need and narrow it down into things you need, want, and are nice to have in a job role. 

If you ever feel uncomfortable during an interview you can leave or not answer a question if it is inappropriate. If you are working with a recruitment agency always make sure you consult them about the interview and anything that was inappropriate. 

At FBR, we focus on finding the right jobs for the right people. If you are looking for a new role, view our jobs board today or contact us now. 



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