Trainee Quantity Surveyor Review

I am a trainee quantity surveyor. My day to day tasks are broadly allocated by my manager who is a senior QS. Normally I will process payments, issue invoices and payment notifications to subcontractors and deal with variations to our contract, by updating the clients and subcontractors.

I have received extensive training in my first 6 months, both job specific training and training on the industry. In relation to my job I have developed an extensive range of skills through 1 to 1 time with my manager, as well as completing courses on our internal systems used in everyday work. The industry wide training has given me a greater awareness of regulations which must be adhered to, and many safety aspects such as asbestos awareness and the business's approach to health and safety.

The mix of on the job training and experience, with a part time degree at university has been ideally suited to me thus far. I enjoy the work I am doing on the job, as the team I am working with have been very friendly and welcoming, and have all taken time to ensure I am comfortable with my work and helped with any problems. There is a great ethos in the company and everyone is treated equally regardless of what position you are in. Also my colleagues have offered a lot of help with my university studies, as well as accommodating any time I need for coursework and studying.

I feel very valued by the company, which is shown by the fair package I have received and also the opportunities presented early in my career. I have been given responsibility from the outset, and have been treated equally to all other employees. So far my quarterly appraisals have been positive experiences in that I have received recognition for the work completed.

The programme is very well structured. From the beginning it has been very clear to me what will happen at each stage of programme, in that all of the support materials map out your path from the beginning to the end, including programme specific training events which are particularly useful.

The training team have been very supportive of my and my peers by offering regular extensive training opportunities. I have had the capacity to put myself forward for additional training which is a great opportunity for those keen to increase their skill base early in their career.

I receive plenty of support from my manager and the team on the project which I'm working on. My mentor and project team support me on a daily basis with tasks I am carrying out, ensuring I am doing well and don't have any questions. I have not yet dealt with HR however I have felt no need to contact them.

The salary package is fairly basic initially, however I agree that it is fair for the work required of you. As I live at home with parents the salary is sufficient, yet I feel that in other circumstances it may be more difficult to get by, although I'm aware additional allowances can be made based on circumstances. I also understand that on the programme I receive periodical salary increases as time goes on. There is also an expenses system which can be used to claim travel costs.

Outwith work there is not much required of staff. I have not yet attended any company events or activities which took place outside work. The office location is not great for activities after work, and there was no Christmas party arranged this year

Yes

My experience so far has been very positive, in that I feel fully supported with my work and studies. I can see from my colleagues that there are great opportunities in the business for those who work hard which is a real incentive for me. Also the company is a leader in the industry for innovation which is evident in every day work.

Ensure to prepare thoroughly for assessments and interviews, especially if you have no experience in the industry. I wish I had learnt more about the job role and construction industry when I went for my assessment centre.