Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Project Quantity Surveyor – 2025

Are you ready for your interview for a project quantity surveyor role? This comprehensive list of questions and answers will help you demonstrate your expertise in cost estimation, risk management, and project coordination. Stay ahead of the competition and impress your potential employer with your in-depth knowledge of the latest industry practices.

General Questions

• 1. Can you tell us about your previous experience in quantity surveying?
  I have been working as a project quantity surveyor for the past five years, where I have been responsible for accurately estimating project costs, identifying risks and developing cost management strategies. I have experience working on a variety of projects ranging from construction to infrastructure development.
• 2. What methods do you use to keep yourself updated on the latest industry practices?
  I make sure to attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay updated on the latest developments in the field of quantity surveying. I also regularly read industry publications and engage in online learning opportunities.
• 3. How do you ensure accuracy in your cost estimation process?
  I utilize industry-specific software and tools to accurately estimate costs for materials, labor, and other project expenses. I also closely analyze project drawings and specifications to make sure all aspects are accounted for.
• 4. How do you handle unexpected changes in a project's scope or budget?
  I make sure to communicate effectively with all stakeholders and closely monitor the project's progress to identify any potential changes early on. If changes do occur, I work with the project team to develop a revised budget and manage the impact on the project schedule.
• 5. How do you manage risk in a project?
  I believe in proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks by conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing effective risk management strategies. I also make sure to regularly review and update risk registers throughout the project's lifecycle.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What is your experience with using quantity surveying software and tools?
  I am proficient in using industry-standard software such as CostX, Bluebeam, and Primavera. I have also used Excel extensively for data analysis and cost tracking.
• 7. Can you walk us through your previous experience in cost management?
  In my previous role, I was responsible for developing and maintaining project budgets, forecasting costs, and monitoring expenses. I also actively worked with suppliers and contractors to negotiate competitive prices and track cost variations throughout the project.
• 8. How familiar are you with relevant construction regulations and standards?
  As a project quantity surveyor, I make sure to stay updated on all relevant codes, regulations, and standards within the construction industry. I have also actively participated in workshops and training programs related to this topic.
• 9. How do you manage project change orders?
  I use a rigorous process to manage project change orders, which involves evaluating the impact on the project's scope, budget, and schedule before making any decisions. I also make sure to communicate any changes to all relevant stakeholders and update project documentation accordingly.
• 10. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with team members or clients?
  I believe in open and respectful communication, and I actively listen to all parties involved to try and understand their perspective. I also strive to find a mutually agreed-upon solution that aligns with the project's goals and objectives.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you describe a time when you had to manage unexpected changes in a project's budget or schedule?
  In one of my previous projects, we faced a delay in sourcing materials due to a supplier issue. I immediately communicated this to project stakeholders and developed a revised timeline and budget. I also worked closely with the supplier to resolve the issue and keep the project on track.
• 12. Tell us about a time when you demonstrated strong leadership skills in a project.
  As a project quantity surveyor, I am often responsible for leading a team of surveyors and coordinating tasks. In one of my past projects, I made sure to regularly communicate project progress, delegate tasks effectively, and provide support and guidance to my team when needed, resulting in the project being completed on time and within budget.
• 13. Can you share an example of a time when you had to manage conflicts within a project team?
  During a particularly challenging project, there were disagreements between team members regarding the best course of action. I called a meeting where everyone was able to share their opinions and we were able to come to a consensus and move forward with a unified approach.
• 14. Tell us about a time when you had to present complex technical information to a non-technical audience.
  During a project review meeting, I was tasked with presenting the project's estimated costs to senior stakeholders who did not have a technical background. I prepared a concise and easy-to-understand presentation with visuals and simplified explanations, which helped us secure their approval and support for the project.
• 15. Can you share an example of a time when you identified and implemented cost-saving measures in a project?
  In one of my past projects, I noticed that several materials were being discarded due to damage during storage. I suggested a more efficient storage method, which resulted in a considerable cost saving for the project.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle a situation where a project's budget was exceeded due to inaccurate cost estimations?
  If the budget was exceeded due to my own error, I would take responsibility for it and work with the project team to find ways to cut costs in other areas and get the project back on track. If it was due to external factors, I would revise the budget and work with stakeholders to communicate and mitigate the impact.
• 17. If a project team member approached you with concerns about a potential risk to the project, how would you handle it?
  I would appreciate their proactive approach and take their concerns seriously. I would then assess and analyze the potential risk, discuss it with the team, and develop a plan to mitigate it before it becomes a major issue.
• 18. How would you handle a scenario where a client requests changes to a project that would significantly impact the budget and timeline?
  I would first evaluate the feasibility and impact of the changes on the project and discuss them with the client and other stakeholders. If the changes are necessary, I would work with the team to develop a revised budget and schedule and communicate the impact to the client.
• 19. If a project team member is not meeting their deadlines, how would you handle it?
  I would first have a one-on-one discussion with the team member to understand the reasons behind the delay. If it's due to a lack of resources or support, I would escalate the issue to higher management. If there are other reasons, I would work with the team member to develop a plan to get back on schedule.
• 20. How would you handle a situation where multiple stakeholders have conflicting opinions on the best course of action for a project?
  I would schedule a meeting with all parties involved and facilitate an open and respectful discussion to understand each perspective. I would then work towards finding a compromise or a solution that aligns with the project's goals and objectives.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 21. What values do you think are important for a project quantity surveyor to possess?
  I believe integrity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are vital for a project quantity surveyor to have. As a quantity surveyor, one must also value teamwork, adaptability, and continuous learning.
• 22. How do you prioritize and manage your workload to ensure you meet project deadlines?
  I utilize various project management tools and techniques, such as creating schedules and checklists, to prioritize tasks and stay on top of deadlines. I also make sure to communicate any potential delays to stakeholders and manage their expectations accordingly.
• 23. Can you give an example of a time when you went above and beyond to deliver high-quality work for a project?
  In a previous project, I noticed that there were gaps in the project's risk management plan. Instead of just pointing it out, I took it upon myself to conduct research and develop a comprehensive risk management plan, which was appreciated by both my team and the client.
• 24. How do you handle high-pressure situations or tight deadlines?
  I stay calm and focused, prioritize key tasks, and make use of available resources and support systems. I also understand the importance of effective communication in these situations and ensure all team members are aware of the deadlines and expectations.
• 25. How do you stay motivated and continuously strive for improvement in your work?
  I am constantly seeking new opportunities to learn and grow and I make sure to set personal and professional goals to work towards. I also take the time to reflect and learn from my mistakes in previous projects, which helps me improve my skills and expertise.