Quantity surveyors play a crucial role in managing construction costs and contracts, ensuring projects are financially viable and efficiently executed. This expertise is essential across various construction projects, from infrastructure to residential developments. The increasing complexity and scale of global construction projects have heightened the demand for skilled QS professionals.
In this video, we’ll reveal 7 countries that are actively seeking QS’s , the visas you’ll need, and expert tips to boost your chances on how to work abroad as a quantity surveyor.
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United Kingdom
The UK includes quantity surveyors in its Skilled Worker Visa under the Shortage Occupation List, facilitating easier visa access for QS professionals. This inclusion indicates a recognised shortage and a high demand for QS skills in the country.
Tips
- Seek opportunities with major contractors and consultancies such as Turner & Townsend, Mace, and Arcadis.
- Utilise recruitment agencies specialising in construction, like Hays Construction and RICS Recruit.
- Ensure your qualifications align with UK standards—a degree accredited by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) is highly advantageous.
Australia
Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) features quantity surveyors, reflecting the occupation’s high demand. This inclusion allows QS professionals to apply for various skilled migration visas.
Tips
- Register with Engineers Australia and RICS Australia to boost credibility.
- Network with major employers such as AECOM, Lendlease, and Multiplex.
- Use job platforms like Seek, Indeed, and Hays Recruitment Australia.
Ireland
Ireland’s Critical Skills Occupation List includes quantity surveyors, highlighting the profession’s importance in the country’s construction sector.
Tips
- Seek employment with top firms like Linesight, Sisk Group, and Turner & Townsend Ireland.
- Join the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) to enhance credibility.
- Utilise job portals like IrishJobs.ie and Indeed Ireland.
Canada
Under Canada’s Express Entry system, quantity surveyors are eligible to apply through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, provided they meet the specific criteria.
Tips
- Register with the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS) to improve job prospects.
- Look for roles with EllisDon, PCL Construction, and SNC-Lavalin.
- Use job portals like Workopolis, Job Bank Canada, and LinkedIn Canada.
New Zealand
New Zealand’s Green List, which identifies occupations in high demand, includes quantity surveyors. This listing provides a pathway to residency for QS professionals.
Tips
- Join NZIQS (New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors) for better job prospects.
- Seek roles with companies such as Fletcher Building, Beca, and Hawkins Construction.
- Use job search platforms like Trade Me Jobs and Seek NZ.
Germany
- Germany’s EU Blue Card scheme is available to skilled professionals, including quantity surveyors, facilitating work and residency opportunities.
Tips
- Learn basic German to improve job prospects.
- Look for opportunities with firms like Hochtief, Züblin, and Strabag.
- Use German job portals such as StepStone and Indeed Germany.
Singapore
Singapore issues Employment Passes to skilled professionals, including quantity surveyors, to support its expanding construction and real estate sectors.
Tips
- Register with the Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers (SISV).
- Look for roles with companies such as Surbana Jurong, Dragages Singapore, and Woh Hup.
- Use job portals like MyCareersFuture and JobsDB Singapore.
Final Tips on How To Work Abroad As A Quantity Surveyor
- Ensure your qualifications are recognized in your target country.
- Obtain relevant professional memberships (e.g., RICS, CIOB, SCSI).
- Gain experience with international projects to improve employability.
- Use LinkedIn and recruitment agencies specializing in construction roles.
- Research salary expectations and cost of living before moving.
With the right preparation, securing an international QS role can be a game-changer for your career
If you would like a detailed step-by-step guide on the application process and associated costs for a specific country, please comment below with your country of interest, and we will provide a comprehensive breakdown in a future post.
