Trainee QS Review

My current role involves the administration of subcontracts, completing all associated processes. These include liabilities, Valuations and the production of payment certificates and raising Contractor's instructions to name a few. I have also been exposed to other less common processes such as Subcontract termination and novating a subcontract. Additionally, I complete regular updates on the projects plant book, monitoring the cost of these items and reporting back to senior management.

Before I started my current career path I was a laboratory technician testing concrete on site. Moving over from a site based role such as that to my current role has afforded me the opportunity to see both sides of the spectrum. My current role has enabled me to both develop existing skills and learn new ones. I have found that one particular area that has improved is my analysis and problem solving skills, particularly in relation to valuations and payments to subcontractors. The Quantity Surveying Course I am currently studying has taught me a great deal about contract law and the economics of the construction industry as a whole, all of which helps me greatly in my role and what I otherwise would not have come across in my previous role.

I have really been enjoying my work and in particular working alongside those around me. There is a good atmosphere in the office and I feel confident that I can go to any member of the team if I need support. The company is supportive and makes you feel included in what is going on, receiving regular updates about different things that are going on. Overall, it has been a really positive experience that I have enjoyed.

I received both company and project inductions as soon as I started. Since then I have received good support from my line manage with regular meetings taking place to check on my progress with regard to both my university course and daily work. My course is well structured and I have been enjoying it so far. Support is also available at the university should i need it.

I receive plenty of support from my company line manager who I can raise any concerns with; whether that be work related or to do with my studies. My assigned learning and development adviser also periodically checks in to ensure that I am doing okay with my studies and whether I need any further support.

The tutors are helpful and readily available to give feedback on coursework or answer any concerns about the tasks. The university also has a student union body in place which is a way of accessing independent, impartial advice if needed. Overall I enjoy the university experience and feel that they are readily available to support me in my studies.

I feel it does help as I am learning the fundamentals of the role I am performing at university. However, the course is mainly centred around domestic and commercial buildings where as I am currently working on a rail project; meaning that although there is some overlap between the disciplines, the course content is not always relevant in my workplace.

There are opportunities to engage in social activities, the team I work in makes sure to arrange a social event once every while to get the whole team included. The company also carries out their annual road show where they update employees on the strategy moving forward with these serving as good networking events and a chance to interact with colleagues from different projects. There are also other networking opportunities within the QS discipline and these are arranged periodically.

Yes

They are a great company to work for, I feel supported in my role and have bee giving opportunities to develop my skills and knowledge and to also apply these in the workplace. I also feel that there are good opportunities to progress within the company which is something that you do not always find.

I would advise new applicants to be ready to work in a professional environment, where colleagues are happy to provide support should you need it. I would say they are a very inclusive company who provide regular updates and who look out for the health and wellbeing of employees, with multiple initiative available to ensure that employees are happy and comfortable in the workplace.