The quantity surveyor profession has swiftly expanded in the United States, driven by the surge of megaprojects in 2024. These ambitious endeavors demand expertise in cost estimating, cost management and procurement. Those holding an MRICS designation are esteemed as premier cost experts within the construction industry and provide standards that help manage construction projects consistently, no matter how the market changes or how complicated the project is.
Career mobility is vital in addressing the scarcity of cost managers in the United States and expanding job opportunities in the field. Despite the United States contributing over 15% to global construction output, it only hosts 1% of the world’s chartered quantity surveyors, underscoring unique challenges in America’s construction industry. Valued by organizations and professionals, career mobility empowers experts to excel in diverse environments, adapting to industry changes. By facilitating international mobility, companies enable employees to shape their careers, fostering growth and resilience. This support enhances professional development and strengthens organizations’ global capabilities.
COST SUPPORT
The indispensable role of quantity surveyors in large, elaborate projects is grounded in their unique skill set. With deep expertise in project-management techniques, construction economics and project finance, they adeptly navigate the complexities of such endeavors. In the United States, the cost-management role often falls to project managers, posing challenges for larger and more intricate projects.
By assisting project managers in the dual role, allowing them to concentrate on managing schedule, scope, quality and execution, a more streamlined and effective project-management structure is achieved. This strategic division of responsibilities also enables cost managers to focus precisely on managing financial aspects, bringing a specialized and targeted lens to cost-related issues. Employers highly value professionals who exhibit a proactive approach and unwavering attention to detail, recognizing these qualities as indispensable in ensuring the timely and budget-conscious completion of detailed projects.
LEVERAGING DEMAND
Embarking on a career in the U.S. not only aligns with the soaring demand for skilled quantity surveyors in the construction industry but also promises substantial financial benefits. Professionals transitioning from their careers in the United Kingdom or Ireland can anticipate a considerable 30% salary boost just for making the move. Optimistic employment forecasts by reliable industry sources predict a significant increase in job opportunities over the next 10 years, marking an excellent opportunity for cost managers to begin or further their careers.
Statista predicts the data center market will grow by 5.88% annually (CAGR 2024-2028), reaching $124.60 billion by 2028. Rapid advancements in the mission-critical sectors, including the rise of artificial intelligence, present an opportunity where cost specialists and project success are pivotal. With considerable growth in life sciences, semiconductors, data centers, electric vehicles and battery sectors, experts with the right skills are well-positioned to contribute significantly and thrive professionally.
PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL
Mobility—both throughout a career or across a country—can be a transformative force, opening new horizons and providing avenues for professional and personal growth. Beyond the mere act of changing roles, mobility can empower one to navigate, adapt and flourish in diverse professional landscapes. The flexibility and opportunities can also enable the cultivation of a versatile skill set, fresh perspectives and ambition in the ever-evolving job market.
When considering career opportunities, a thoughtful approach involves aligning positions with personal career goals and focusing on broader professional growth potential. Considerations include company support, evaluating the location’s suitability for comfortable settling and prioritizing emotional wellbeing. On the professional side, relocating has the added benefit of expanding work networks and the ability to collaborate with top engineering and architectural firms. On a personal level, living and working in various locations offer unique and life-changing experiences, especially if it is somewhere with extreme temperatures like tropical regions or mountainous terrains.
ORGANIZE AND STRATEGIZE
Businesses play a crucial role in fostering career mobility, as enabling internal mobility is a strategic move that benefits both organizations and their team members. Offering individuals opportunities for skill diversification, career growth and personal development enhances their professional journey and contributes to overall job satisfaction. Support can include mentorship programs, cross-functional training, clear employment pathways and a culture that values and encourages mobility. Such initiatives provide the infrastructure for cost managers to control their career journeys, elevating employee morale and enhancing the capabilities of organizations.
Organizations championing internal mobility create environments where quantity surveyors can thrive, offering opportunities, career advancement and self-improvement. By valuing and encouraging each employee’s career path, these companies not only elevate morale but also enhance their teams’ capabilities, remaining competitive in a field where adaptability is key. With the demand for experts rising, mobility offers upward advancement and new professional and personal development opportunities.
