Jessica Ferguson
Quantity Surveyor
WT
Introduction
My name is Jess, I studied a Bachelor of Business Administration at Macquarie University and then completed a Master of Project Management at University of Technology Sydney.
After finishing my first degree, I found out my uncle, who was based overseas, was a quantity surveyor, also known as a QS. It was at that time that I thought about trying a career in the construction industry. I managed to obtain a Cadetship as a QS at WT which was a great opportunity to gain real experience whilst studying and I can’ t recommend this highly enough.
The Role
As a quantity surveyor, I manage the cost and risk components of construction projects to ensure their successful completion within budget and in compliance with contractual agreements. My day-to-day activities can include estimating costs, preparing bill of quantities, assisting with the tendering process, cost management, value engineering, risk assessment, project reporting, risk management of development costs for financiers, assessing embodied carbon and giving sustainability advice. I also undertake contract administration tasks, such as assessing variations, payment claims, visiting site, time management and liaising with clients and the project team to ensure deliverables are met.
14