Table of Contents
Introduction
An MEP (Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing) Quantity Surveyor is a key and coveted player in the construction and engineering world. They are the experts who make sure that a building or other construction project is done on time, within budget, and with cost-effective use of resources. But responsibility breeds competition. How to differentiate yourself when there are so many good applicants? The answer is an authentic, engaging resume that sells you as the perfect candidate and provides a great narrative of your career.
If you’re an MEP Quantity Surveyor seeking to advance your career, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to explore what constitutes a great MEP Quantity Surveyor resume, share effective resume templates, and give you strategies to make your resume pop in front of hiring managers. Using this book, you can develop a resume that gets you through new doors, whether you are experienced or inexperienced.
Why Your Resume Matters More Than Ever
Now, let’s discuss why your resume is your secret weapon in the job search. These days, resumes typically get a few seconds of glory before a hiring manager decides whether to reject a candidate or not. That means your resume has to grab their attention right away.
For MEP Quantity Surveyors, it’s worse. You don’t just know your work history; you’ve thought about how to present it in the most effective way. A polished resume can convey attention to detail, technical savvy, and the capacity to present complicated information clearly—all of which are essential skills for an MEP Quantity Surveyor.
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Know MoreKey Elements of an MEP Quantity Surveyor Resume
Clear and Concise Formatting
Make your resume clear and attractive. Interperse text with bullet points, headings, and white space to lead the reader’s eye. Don’t use long paragraphs or complicated layouts.
Strong Professional Summary
Begin the résumé with a powerful professional summary that showcases basic skills, experience and even career ambitions. It’s your opportunity to engage the hiring manager and make them interested in reading more.
Relevant Skills Section
Add a separate skills section that highlights your technical expertise, which might include cost estimating, contract management, and software such as AutoCAD or Revit. Include communication and teamwork skills.
Detailed Work Experience
The main part of your resume should be your work experience. Show how you made a difference in past jobs by using strong verbs and measurable results. For instance, instead of just ‘Managed project budgets,’ put ‘Cut project costs 15% by managing budgets and vendor negotiations.’
Education and Certifications
Emphasize your education and such professional credentials as RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) or CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building). They can distinguish you from other candidates.
Tailored Content
Tailor your resume to every job. Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description into your resume to make sure it gets past the applicant tracking systems (ATS) and speaks to hiring managers.
MEP Quantity Surveyor Resume Samples
To assist you, we’ve provided three sample resumes, corresponding to entry-level, mid-level, and senior-level experience. Let these samples inspire you to create a killer resume.
Sample 1: Entry-Level MEP Quantity Surveyor Resume
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile]
Location]
Professional Summary
Entry-Level MEP Quantity Surveyor with a passion for numbers, a history of success in school, and some practical experience producing cost estimates and overseeing projects. Skilled in AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, and providing fast and precise cost answers. Looking to join a fast-paced team and develop with a good company.
Skills
- Estimating Costs
- Managing the Budget
- AutoCAD
- MS Excel
- Managing the Contract
- Analysis of Data
- Cooperative Teamwork
- Grip of Details
Education
B.S., Quantity Surveying
[Name of University],
[Location] [Month, Year]
Certifications
- Associate RICS (In Progress)
- OSHA Certification
Relevant Experience
Intern, MEP Quantity Surveying
[Company Name], [Location]
[Month Year] – [Month Year]
- Helped senior surveyors prepare cost estimates for MEP systems that were 95% accurate.
- Performed site visits to check on the projects and ensure they were staying on budget.
- Put together reports and presentations for project stakeholders.
- Used AutoCAD to make and update technical drawings.
Residential Building Project
- Worked with a team to estimate electrical and plumbing costs and cut material waste by 10%.
- Helped prepare tender documents & contracts.
Sample 2: Mid-Level MEP Quantity Surveyor Resume
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[LinkedIn URL]
[City]
Experienced MEP Quantity Surveyor with over 5 years of experience in contract administration and cost control on major projects. A proven record of meeting schedules and budgets, with skills in cost estimation, value engineering, and risk management. Effective communicator who was good at developing enduring relationships with clients and stakeholders.
Skills
- Controlling Costs
- Value Analysis
- Managing Risks
- Contract Discussion
- Revit
- Primavera P6
- Accounting Reporting
- Managing Client Relationships
[University Name],
[Location]
Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying Graduated: [Month, Year]
Certifications
Member of RICS (MRICS)
LEED Green Associate
WORK EXPERIENCE
MEP Quantity Surveyor
[Name of Company], [Location]
[Month, Year] – Present
- Oversaw cost control for MEP systems in various projects totaling $50M.
- Performed value engineering, reducing clients’ project costs by an average of 12%.
- Drew up and negotiated contracts with subcontractors on favorable terms.
- Worked with project managers to foresee and address issues, so there were no cost overruns.
Assistant MEP Quantity Surveyor
[Company Name],
[Location] [Month Year]–[Month Year]
- Assisted senior surveyors with cost estimates and tender documents.
- Tracked costs and produced monthly financial reports.
- Performed site visits to check quantities and specs.
Sample 3: Senior-Level MEP Quantity Surveyor Resume
[Your email]
[Your LinkedIn]
[Your location]
Professional Summary MEP Quantity Surveyor with over 10 years of experience in cost management and contract administration of high-value construction projects. Strengths in planning, team-building, and working with stakeholders. Expert in pushing costs down and projects up to client expectations. Loved teaching young surveyors and instilling a passion for quality.
Skills
- Cost Strategy
- Leadership of the Team
- Engagement of Stakeholders
- Resolving Disputes
- BIM (building information modeling)
- Power Excel
- Predicting Finances
- Mentoring
MS in Construction Economics and Management
[University],
[City]
Graduated [Month, Year]
Certifications
- Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS)
- PMP(Project Management Professional)
Professional EXPERIENCE
Senior MEP Quantity Surveyor
[NAME OF COMPANY] [CITY/COUNTRY]
[MONTH, YEAR]–PRESENT
Performed cost management on mechanical, electric, and plumbing systems for a $100M commercial development project and brought it in 5% under budget.
- Led the adoption of BIM technology, which enhanced cooperation and cut mistakes by 20%.
- Negotiated with subs, avoiding $500K in potential claims.
- Developed 5 junior surveyors through mentoring.
MEP Quantity Surveyor
[Company Name], [Location]
[Month, Year] – [Month, Year]
- Oversaw cost management of MEP systems for several residential and commercial projects.
- Drew up detailed cost plans and conducted feasibility studies.
- Contracted suppliers to save 15%.
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Conclusion
Your résumé is your key to getting your dream job as an MEP Quantity Surveyor. Using these tips and samples, you can craft a resume that communicates not just your skills and experience but also the narrative of your career.
Keep in mind that customization is the secret to a great resume: You need to make it perfect for the job you’re applying to. Incorporate keywords from the job description, quantify your accomplishments, and highlight your unique value proposition. A good resume will help you get noticed in the fierce MEP Quantity Surveying job competition.
So, why wait? Begin writing your WOW resume now, and get moving toward your career dreams. A wonderful opportunity may be approaching soon—so be prepared!
Master MEP Design with Industry-Leading Training!
Gain in-depth knowledge of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Design with expert-led courses. Learn HVAC, fire safety, sustainable building strategies, and BIM applications to excel in the construction industry.
Know MoreFrequently Asked Questions
What is the role of an MEP Quantity Surveyor, and why is a strong resume important for this position?
An MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) Quantity Surveyor plays a critical role in construction projects by managing costs, preparing estimates, and ensuring that projects stay within budget. They are responsible for analyzing project specifications, negotiating contracts, and monitoring expenditures to ensure financial efficiency. A strong resume is essential because it showcases your ability to handle these responsibilities effectively. Hiring managers look for candidates who can demonstrate technical expertise, attention to detail, and a proven track record of delivering results. A well-crafted resume not only highlights your skills and experience but also sets you apart from other candidates in a competitive job market.
What are the key sections to include in an MEP Quantity Surveyor resume?
An effective MEP Quantity Surveyor resume should include the following key sections:
- Contact Information: Your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile.
- Professional Summary: A brief, compelling statement that highlights your skills, experience, and career goals.
- Skills Section: A list of technical and soft skills relevant to the role, such as cost estimation, contract management, and proficiency in software like AutoCAD or Revit.
- Work Experience: Detailed descriptions of your previous roles, focusing on quantifiable achievements and responsibilities.
- Education: Your academic background, including degrees and certifications.
- Certifications: Any relevant credentials, such as RICS or CIOB membership.
- Projects: Examples of projects you’ve worked on, emphasizing your contributions and outcomes.
Each section should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for, using keywords from the job description.
How can I tailor my MEP Quantity Surveyor resume for different job applications?
Tailoring your resume involves customizing it to match the specific requirements of each job application. Start by carefully reading the job description and identifying key skills, qualifications, and keywords. Incorporate these keywords into your resume, particularly in the professional summary, skills section, and work experience descriptions. For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling), highlight your proficiency in BIM software and provide examples of how you’ve used it in previous roles. Additionally, emphasize achievements and experiences that align with the company’s industry or project types, such as commercial, residential, or industrial construction.
What skills should I highlight on my MEP Quantity Surveyor resume?
When crafting your resume, focus on both technical and soft skills that are relevant to the role of an MEP Quantity Surveyor. Key technical skills include:
- Cost estimation and budgeting
- Contract administration and negotiation
- Proficiency in software like AutoCAD, Revit, and Primavera P6
- Knowledge of MEP systems and construction processes
- Risk management and value engineering
Soft skills to highlight include:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Team collaboration and leadership
- Time management and organizational skills
Including a mix of these skills demonstrates your ability to handle both the technical and interpersonal aspects of the role.
How can I make my entry-level MEP Quantity Surveyor resume stand out?
As an entry-level candidate, you may not have extensive work experience, but you can still create a standout resume by focusing on your education, internships, and transferable skills. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or certifications, such as RICS Associate or OSHA Safety Certification. Emphasize internships or part-time roles where you gained hands-on experience, even if they were not directly related to MEP Quantity Surveying. Use action verbs and quantify your achievements wherever possible. For example, instead of saying “Assisted with cost estimates,” say “Prepared cost estimates for MEP systems with 95% accuracy.” Additionally, showcase your enthusiasm for the field and your willingness to learn and grow.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an MEP Quantity Surveyor resume?
Some common mistakes to avoid include:
- Using a generic resume: Failing to tailor your resume for each job application can make it less relevant to hiring managers.
- Including irrelevant information: Focus on experiences and skills that are directly related to MEP Quantity Surveying.
- Neglecting quantifiable achievements: Hiring managers want to see concrete examples of your impact, such as cost savings or project outcomes.
- Poor formatting: A cluttered or hard-to-read resume can discourage hiring managers from reviewing it thoroughly.
- Overlooking keywords: Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, so including relevant keywords is essential.
- Omitting certifications: Certifications like RICS or LEED can significantly enhance your resume’s credibility.
Avoiding these mistakes will help you create a polished and professional resume.
How important are certifications for an MEP Quantity Surveyor resume?
Certifications are highly important for an MEP Quantity Surveyor resume because they demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession. Certifications such as RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building), or PMP (Project Management Professional) can set you apart from other candidates and increase your credibility. They also show that you have met industry standards and are up-to-date with the latest practices and technologies. If you’re pursuing a certification, you can include it on your resume with a note indicating the expected completion date.
How can I showcase my achievements on an MEP Quantity Surveyor resume?
Showcasing your achievements is crucial for making your resume stand out. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to describe your accomplishments:
- Situation: Provide context for the challenge or project.
- Task: Explain your role and responsibilities.
- Action: Describe the steps you took to address the challenge.
- Result: Highlight the outcome, using quantifiable metrics whenever possible.
For example:
“Reduced project costs by 15% through effective budget management and vendor negotiations, resulting in a $500K savings for the client.”
This approach not only demonstrates your skills but also provides concrete evidence of your impact.
Should I include a cover letter with my MEP Quantity Surveyor resume?
Yes, including a cover letter is highly recommended. A well-written cover letter allows you to expand on your resume, explain your interest in the role, and highlight why you’re the ideal candidate. Use the cover letter to tell a story about your career journey, emphasizing experiences and skills that align with the job description. It’s also an opportunity to address any gaps in your resume or explain career transitions. A tailored cover letter shows hiring managers that you’ve put thought and effort into your application, increasing your chances of standing out.
How can I optimize my MEP Quantity Surveyor resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS)?
To optimize your resume for ATS, follow these tips:
- Use relevant keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description, such as “cost estimation,” “contract administration,” or “BIM.”
- Avoid complex formatting: Stick to a clean, simple layout with standard fonts and headings.
- Include a skills section: List both technical and soft skills to ensure they are picked up by the ATS.
- Use standard job titles: Avoid creative or unconventional job titles that the ATS may not recognize.
- Save your resume in the correct format: Use a Word document or PDF unless the job posting specifies otherwise.
By optimizing your resume for ATS, you increase the likelihood of it being seen by a hiring manager.
