Finding the right job as a quantity surveyor can be challenging. A well-crafted cover letter gets your foot in the door and makes you stand out from other candidates. This article provides 15 sample cover letters that showcase different approaches, styles, and situations for quantity surveyors at various career stages.
Ready to make a strong first impression? These cover letter examples will help you catch the attention of hiring managers and land your dream job in quantity surveying.
Sample Cover Letters for Quantity Surveyor
Here are fifteen different cover letter examples that will help you succeed in your quantity surveyor job applications.
1. Entry-Level Quantity Surveyor
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Entry-Level Quantity Surveyor Position
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am writing to apply for the Entry-Level Quantity Surveyor position advertised on [website/source]. As a recent graduate with a BSc in Quantity Surveying from [University Name], I am excited about the opportunity to start my career with [Company Name], a company known for its outstanding projects and commitment to excellence.
During my studies, I gained hands-on experience through internships at [Company Name], where I assisted senior quantity surveyors with cost estimations, bill preparations, and site measurements. My academic training equipped me with strong analytical skills and thorough knowledge of construction processes, contract administration, and cost management techniques.
My key skills include:
- Proficiency in cost estimation software (CATO, CostX)
- Basic understanding of construction contracts (JCT, NEC)
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
- Strong mathematical and analytical abilities
- Good communication skills
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your focus on [specific company trait/recent project]. Your company’s approach to [specific aspect] aligns perfectly with my professional goals and interests.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my skills and enthusiasm can contribute to your team.
Sincerely,
Your Name
2. Experienced Quantity Surveyor Changing Companies
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Senior Quantity Surveyor Position Application
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
With reference to your job posting for a Senior Quantity Surveyor, I am submitting my application for your consideration. Having spent eight years at [Current Company], where I managed cost control for projects valued up to $15 million, I am looking for new challenges that will expand my professional horizons.
My track record includes reducing project costs by 12% through careful value engineering and supplier negotiations, while maintaining quality standards. I have also successfully led a team of junior surveyors, providing mentorship and guidance that resulted in improved team performance and client satisfaction.
My experience includes:
- Managing full project life cycles from initial cost estimates to final accounts
- Preparing and analyzing bills of quantities
- Contract administration and commercial management
- Claims preparation and resolution
- Procurement and subcontractor management
I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]’s recent work on [specific project] and would value the opportunity to contribute to similar groundbreaking projects. Your reputation for [specific company quality] makes [Company Name] an ideal next step in my career.
I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to discussing how my experience can benefit your organization.
Best regards,
Your Name
3. Quantity Surveyor Returning After Career Break
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Quantity Surveyor Position – Ref. QS2023
Dear Hiring Team,
I am writing to express my interest in the Quantity Surveyor position currently available at [Company Name]. Prior to my three-year career break, I accumulated seven years of experience as a qualified quantity surveyor with [Previous Company], where I managed commercial aspects of residential and commercial construction projects valued between $5-20 million.
During my career break, I maintained my professional knowledge by completing online courses in the latest cost estimation software and changes to building regulations. I also volunteered on a community center construction project, providing pro bono quantity surveying services that helped the project come in 5% under budget.
My professional strengths include:
- Detailed cost analysis and budget management
- Contract preparation and administration
- Strong negotiation skills with contractors and suppliers
- Risk assessment and management
- Proficiency with current industry software including [specific software names]
I am eager to return to full-time professional work and believe my combination of previous experience and refreshed knowledge makes me an ideal candidate for this position. I am fully committed to quickly reintegrating into the professional environment and contributing value to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with your requirements.
Sincerely,
Your Name
4. Quantity Surveyor Specializing in Green Construction
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Sustainability-Focused Quantity Surveyor Position
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am excited to apply for the Quantity Surveyor position at [Company Name], as advertised on [source]. With six years of specialized experience in sustainable construction projects, I am particularly drawn to your company’s commitment to green building practices and LEED certification, as highlighted in your recent [specific project] development.
Throughout my career at [Current Company], I have focused on cost management for environmentally friendly projects, gaining expertise in sustainable materials pricing, renewable energy systems costing, and life-cycle cost analysis. My involvement in five LEED-certified projects has given me valuable insights into balancing sustainability goals with budget constraints.
Key achievements in sustainable construction:
- Developed specialized cost databases for green building materials
- Achieved 10% cost savings on a LEED Gold project through strategic material substitution
- Created templates for life-cycle cost analysis that are now standard practice at my current firm
- Completed certification in Green Building Cost Estimating
I would bring to [Company Name] not only my technical skills in quantity surveying but also my passion for contributing to projects that have a positive environmental impact. Your recent project [name of project] particularly impressed me with its innovative approach to [specific sustainable feature].
I look forward to potentially joining your team and helping advance your sustainability goals while maintaining commercial viability.
Thank you for your consideration.
Regards,
Your Name
5. Graduate Quantity Surveyor with Internship Experience
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Graduate Quantity Surveyor Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the Graduate Quantity Surveyor position at [Company Name]. Having recently completed my BSc in Quantity Surveying with a First Class Honor from [University Name], I am eager to launch my career with a company that has such an outstanding reputation in the construction industry.
What sets me apart from other recent graduates is my practical experience gained through a 12-month placement with [Internship Company]. During this time, I worked on projects ranging from $2 million to $25 million, assisting with preparing bills of quantities, conducting site measurements, and participating in client meetings.
During my internship and academic projects, I developed skills in:
- Using industry-standard software including CostX and Buildsoft
- Preparing tender documents and analyzing contractor bids
- Performing material take-offs and quantity calculations
- Understanding JCT and NEC3 contract terms
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams
My final year dissertation on “Cost Optimization Techniques in Modern Construction” received commendation from the faculty and demonstrated my analytical approach to quantity surveying challenges.
I am attracted to [Company Name] because of your focus on professional development and your portfolio of diverse projects. The opportunity to work on projects such as [specific company project] would be particularly exciting.
Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team.
Yours sincerely,
Your Name
6. Quantity Surveyor for International Position
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, Country
Subject: International Quantity Surveyor Position Application
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the International Quantity Surveyor position with [Company Name] in [Country/City]. With nine years of experience working across three countries (UK, UAE, and Singapore) on projects ranging from high-rise commercial buildings to large-scale infrastructure, I offer a global perspective that would benefit your international operations.
My experience working with different international standards (RICS, AACE, CIOB) and contract forms (FIDIC, JCT, NEC) has given me adaptability and cross-cultural working skills that are essential for success in global markets. I am particularly proud of my role in managing cost control for the $75 million [Project Name] in Singapore, which was delivered 3% under budget despite supply chain complications.
My international experience includes:
- Working with multinational teams across different time zones
- Knowledge of regional construction methods and materials
- Understanding of local regulatory requirements
- Currency fluctuation management in project budgeting
- Experience with international procurement processes
I am attracted to this position at [Company Name] because of your expanding presence in the [specific region] market and your reputation for managing complex international projects. Your recent [specific international project] particularly caught my attention due to its innovative approach to [specific aspect].
Currently holding all necessary certifications for working in [target country] and fluent in [languages], I am ready to relocate immediately.
I look forward to discussing how my international experience can help further your company’s global objectives.
Respectfully,
Your Name
7. Quantity Surveyor for Public Sector Projects
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Government Department/Agency
Department Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Senior Quantity Surveyor – Public Works Division
Dear Selection Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Senior Quantity Surveyor position with the [Government Department/Agency] as advertised on [source]. With ten years of experience in public sector construction projects, including five years dedicated to healthcare facilities and educational institutions, I understand the unique requirements and accountability standards of public works.
My current role at [Current Company] has involved close collaboration with government agencies on projects subject to strict budgetary controls and public scrutiny. This experience has honed my ability to maintain transparent documentation, adhere to public procurement regulations, and defend value-for-money decisions.
Relevant experience and skills for this position include:
- Thorough knowledge of public procurement procedures and regulations
- Experience with government contract forms and funding requirements
- Track record of managing taxpayer funds responsibly with documented savings
- Familiarity with accessibility requirements and public building standards
- Strong audit trail maintenance for all cost decisions
One of my key achievements was saving $1.2 million on a $30 million public school project by suggesting alternative construction methods while maintaining all required quality and safety standards.
I am particularly interested in joining [Government Department/Agency] because of your upcoming [specific public project] and your reputation for delivering high-quality public infrastructure. My commitment to serving the public interest aligns perfectly with your department’s mission.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to potentially contributing to important public works that benefit our community.
Sincerely,
Your Name
8. Quantity Surveyor Moving to Consulting Role
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Consulting Firm Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Quantity Surveying Consultant Position
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am applying for the Quantity Surveying Consultant position at [Consulting Firm Name]. After 12 years working in contractor and client-side roles, I am seeking to leverage my varied experience in a consultancy capacity where I can provide strategic cost advice across multiple projects and sectors.
My career progression from assistant quantity surveyor to senior cost manager has given me exposure to all aspects of the construction cost lifecycle. This breadth of experience would be valuable in a consulting role that requires quick adaptation to different clients and project types. My recent experience leading a team that provided cost recovery services for a disputed $40 million project demonstrates my ability to analyze complex situations and provide clear, actionable advice.
My consulting-relevant skills include:
- Expert knowledge of risk analysis and contingency planning
- Strong client communication and relationship management
- Ability to quickly understand project requirements across different sectors
- Experience providing expert witness services for construction disputes
- Advanced skills in cost modeling and scenario analysis
What attracts me to [Consulting Firm Name] is your reputation for providing innovative solutions to complex construction challenges, as seen in your work on [specific project or client]. The opportunity to work with your diverse client base would allow me to further develop my expertise while adding value through my practical experience.
I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background could complement your consulting team and would be available to meet at your convenience.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Your Name
9. Quantity Surveyor Transitioning from Civil Engineering
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Quantity Surveyor Position – Ref: QS-789
Dear Hiring Team,
I am writing to express my interest in the Quantity Surveyor position at [Company Name]. With a background as a Civil Engineer for the past five years and recent completion of a Postgraduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying, I bring a unique technical perspective to cost management that combines structural understanding with commercial awareness.
My engineering experience on major infrastructure projects has given me firsthand knowledge of construction methods, materials, and potential technical challenges that impact costs. This technical foundation, coupled with my newly acquired quantity surveying skills, allows me to spot potential issues early and suggest practical, cost-effective solutions.
Relevant skills and experience include:
- Technical knowledge of civil engineering principles and practices
- Understanding of infrastructure construction methods and materials
- Recently completed Postgraduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying with Distinction
- Experience with estimation software including [specific software]
- Practical understanding of how design decisions impact costs
During my transition to quantity surveying, I have already assisted with preparing bills of quantities for two highway projects, where my engineering background proved valuable in accurately quantifying complex structural elements.
What attracts me to [Company Name] is your portfolio of combined building and infrastructure projects, where my dual skill set would be particularly valuable. Your current [specific project] is exactly the type of multifaceted project where I believe I could make a significant contribution.
Thank you for considering my somewhat unconventional background. I am confident that my combined engineering and quantity surveying knowledge will bring a fresh perspective to your team.
Yours faithfully,
Your Name
10. Senior Quantity Surveyor for Project Management Firm
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Project Management Firm
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Senior Quantity Surveyor Position Application
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am writing to apply for the Senior Quantity Surveyor position at [Project Management Firm], as advertised on [source]. With 15 years of progressive experience in quantity surveying, including seven years in roles that combined surveying with project management responsibilities, I am well-positioned to contribute to your integrated project delivery approach.
Throughout my career, I have managed costs for projects ranging from $5 million commercial renovations to $120 million mixed-use developments. My approach goes beyond traditional quantity surveying to embrace a holistic view of project success, considering how cost decisions impact schedules, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.
Key strengths relevant to your firm include:
- Expertise in all pre and post-contract quantity surveying functions
- Proven ability to work within multidisciplinary project teams
- Strong experience with value engineering and life cycle costing
- Track record of successful budget management on complex projects
- Leadership skills developed through managing teams of up to 8 surveyors
A recent achievement was establishing a new cost control system for a portfolio of 12 simultaneous retail developments, which improved reporting accuracy and reduced time spent on monthly cost reports by 30%.
I am particularly attracted to [Project Management Firm] because of your reputation for integrated service delivery and your focus on [specific company value or approach]. The prospect of joining your team for the upcoming [specific project or client] is particularly exciting.
I look forward to discussing how my experience aligns with your needs and how I can contribute to your continued success.
Sincerely,
Your Name
11. Quantity Surveyor Specializing in Residential Development
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Developer Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Quantity Surveyor Position for Residential Projects
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Quantity Surveyor position with [Developer Name], focusing on residential developments. With eight years of specialized experience in the residential sector, ranging from individual luxury homes to multi-unit apartment complexes, I have developed deep expertise in the specific cost challenges and opportunities of housing construction.
My current role with [Current Company] has involved managing costs for a portfolio of 15 residential developments simultaneously, with a combined value of $85 million. This has honed my ability to standardize processes while still addressing the unique requirements of each project, resulting in average cost savings of 7% across all developments last year.
My residential-specific expertise includes:
- Detailed understanding of housing construction methods and materials
- Knowledge of residential building codes and regulations
- Experience with phased developments and show home strategies
- Strong relationships with residential trade contractors
- Familiar with sales-to-construction coordination requirements
I have particular strength in early-stage cost planning, having developed spreadsheet models that accurately predict final costs based on initial concepts, allowing for better financial planning and project viability assessment.
What attracts me to [Developer Name] is your reputation for quality residential developments and your upcoming projects in [specific location or project type]. Your commitment to [specific company value] aligns with my own professional approach.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to potentially contributing to your future residential successes.
Kind regards,
Your Name
12. Quantity Surveyor with Oil and Gas Experience
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Energy Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Senior Quantity Surveyor Application – Oil & Gas Division
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am applying for the Senior Quantity Surveyor position in your Oil & Gas Division. With 10 years of specialized experience in cost management for energy sector projects, including offshore platforms, refineries, and pipeline construction, I understand the unique challenges and commercial pressures of this sector.
My experience includes working on projects across three continents, managing costs for capital expenditures ranging from $50 million to $750 million. Working in this high-risk, high-value sector has developed my ability to create robust cost plans that account for complex risk factors and stringent regulatory requirements.
Relevant industry experience includes:
- Cost management for FPSO construction and offshore platform installation
- Experience with FIDIC and logic contracts common in the energy sector
- Understanding of specialized equipment and materials pricing
- Knowledge of industry-specific health, safety, and environmental regulations
- Familiar with cost implications of different construction methodologies in challenging environments
A notable achievement was developing a risk-weighted cost model for a $350 million offshore project that accurately predicted final costs within 2%, despite significant scope changes during execution.
I am particularly interested in joining [Energy Company Name] because of your innovative approach to energy infrastructure development and your current projects in [specific region or project type]. Your company’s balance of traditional and renewable energy projects presents exciting professional challenges.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my specialized experience can benefit your organization.
Yours sincerely,
Your Name
13. Quantity Surveyor for Historic Building Restoration
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Restoration Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Specialist Quantity Surveyor – Heritage Projects
Dear Heritage Projects Team,
I am writing to apply for the Specialist Quantity Surveyor position focusing on heritage restoration projects. With seven years of experience in historical building renovation, including work on Grade I and II listed buildings, churches, and museums, I have developed specialized knowledge in this unique area of construction.
Working with historical structures requires a different approach to quantity surveying, balancing conservation requirements with budget constraints. My experience at [Current Company] has taught me how to accurately price specialized conservation techniques, source period-appropriate materials, and work effectively with master craftspeople whose work cannot be easily quantified using standard methods.
My heritage-specific skills include:
- Knowledge of traditional building methods and materials
- Understanding of conservation regulations and grant funding requirements
- Experience coordinating with conservation officers and heritage bodies
- Ability to price specialized restoration techniques
- Familiarity with the unique contingency planning needed for unknown conditions in historic structures
A career highlight was managing costs for the $4.2 million restoration of [Historic Building Name], which involved complex stonework restoration, traditional timber repairs, and precise replication of period features. Despite numerous discoveries of previously unknown structural issues, the project was completed within 5% of the original budget.
I am drawn to [Restoration Company Name] because of your outstanding portfolio of sensitive restorations, particularly your work on [specific historic project]. Your approach of combining modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship aligns perfectly with my professional philosophy.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to potentially contributing to the preservation of our architectural heritage through your company.
Respectfully,
Your Name
14. Quantity Surveyor for Contractor Tendering Team
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Construction Company Name
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Tendering Quantity Surveyor Position
Dear Mr./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Last Name],
I am writing to apply for the Tendering Quantity Surveyor position with [Construction Company Name]. With six years of experience specializing in pre-contract work and tender preparation, I have helped secure over $200 million worth of projects with an average bid success rate of 38%, significantly above the industry average.
My approach to tendering combines thorough analysis of contract documents, strategic supplier negotiations, and identifying key areas where we can gain competitive advantage without compromising margins. This method has consistently produced accurate, competitive bids that protect profitability while maximizing win potential.
Key skills relevant to this position include:
- Expert analysis of tender documents and identification of risks/opportunities
- Strong subcontractor and supplier relationship management
- Experience with value engineering at tender stage
- Detailed understanding of construction methods to identify efficiency opportunities
- Ability to present bid strategies to senior management
A notable achievement was developing a standardized subcontractor comparison system that reduced tender preparation time by 25% while improving the accuracy of subcontractor cost comparisons.
I am particularly interested in joining [Construction Company Name] because of your diverse project portfolio and growth in the [specific sector] market. Your reputation for fair dealings with subcontractors and clients aligns with my professional values.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my tendering expertise could help increase your bid success rate while maintaining healthy margins.
Thank you for your consideration.
Yours faithfully,
Your Name
15. Quantity Surveyor for Railway Infrastructure Projects
Your Name
Your Address
City, State ZIP
Your Phone
Your Email
Date
Hiring Manager’s Name
Railway Infrastructure Company
Company Address
City, State ZIP
Subject: Application for Railway Infrastructure Quantity Surveyor Position
Dear Recruitment Team,
I am applying for the Quantity Surveyor position specializing in railway infrastructure at [Company Name]. With nine years of experience in transportation infrastructure projects, including five years focused specifically on rail networks, I have developed specialized knowledge of the unique cost management challenges in this sector.
My experience spans light rail, subway systems, and mainline railway projects, including stations, depots, track installations, and signaling systems. Working on the $1.2 billion [Railway Project Name], I managed cost control for a 12-mile track extension with eight new stations, coordinating with multiple stakeholders and navigating the complex regulatory environment specific to railway construction.
My rail-specific expertise includes:
- Knowledge of railway standards and specifications
- Understanding of the cost implications of different track systems
- Experience with possession working and its impact on costs
- Familiarity with specialist railway contractors and suppliers
- Strong background in managing costs for projects with significant public interface
One of my key achievements was developing a specialized cost database for railway infrastructure components that improved estimation accuracy by 15% and is now used as the company standard.
I am particularly attracted to [Company Name] because of your involvement in the [specific railway project] and your reputation for delivering complex infrastructure on time and within budget. The opportunity to work on projects that make such a significant contribution to public transportation would be extremely rewarding.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my specialized experience could benefit your upcoming railway projects.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Conclusion: Cover Letters That Land Quantity Surveying Jobs
The sample cover letters above show different approaches that work for various situations quantity surveyors face when job hunting. Each letter highlights unique strengths while maintaining professionalism and demonstrating value to potential employers.
Remember these key points when writing your own cover letter:
- Tailor each letter to the specific job and company
- Highlight relevant achievements with specific numbers when possible
- Show knowledge of the company and its projects
- Demonstrate how your unique experience meets their needs
- Keep the letter concise but comprehensive
- Use a professional tone that reflects your communication skills
With these guidelines and examples, you now have the tools to create compelling cover letters that will help you stand out in the competitive quantity surveying job market. Good luck with your applications!