How to Write a Professional Cover Letter for a Quantity Surveyor Role: with Examples and Template
If your quantity surveyor CV presents your experience and credentials, a cover letter is your chance to tell the story behind your numbers. It provides insight into your personality, your working style, and the commercial mindset you bring to construction and infrastructure projects.
In 2025, UK quantity surveyors are expected to demonstrate not only technical precision and contract knowledge but also digital fluency, cost-conscious innovation, and strong stakeholder engagement. The good news? A good cover letter can showcase your grasp of these expectations while positioning you as a confident candidate.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, progressing into a senior quantity surveyor role, or transitioning from another engineering field, this guide will walk you through how to write a cover letter to stand out from the competition.
What’s in this article?
How to format a quantity surveyor cover letter
What to include in a cover letter for a quantity surveyor job
How to write a cover letter with no experience
Cover letter examples by seniority level and role.
Example of cover letter for fresh graduate quantity surveyor.
Quantity Surveyor cover letter example
Download this free quantity surveyor cover letter example in PDF.
Why does this cover letter template work?
The Auckland cover letter template showcases the candidate’s experience in a clear and easy-to-read format.
The structure allows to blend in-demand soft skills, whilst taking the employer on a clear journey through the work history.
The colours and font are consistent throughout the document, ensuring the CV and cover letter complement each other.
How to format a quantity surveyor cover letter
A successful cover letter should be structured, clear, and relevant, much like a good cost plan. Your content should be easy to scan, well-formatted, and directly linked to the position you’re applying for.
Follow this structure:
Header: Include your full name, location, phone number, and professional email.
Greeting: Ideally, address the hiring manager or recruiter by name. If not known, “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
Introduction: State the position you’re applying for and include a short summary of your professional background, your years of experience, and what draws you to the company or project type.
Body: Include 1-2 paragraphs highlighting key achievements, core duties, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Use figures or outcomes where possible to prove value.
Conclusion: Wrap up by expressing your interest in contributing to the company, your enthusiasm for the role, and your openness to discussing your application further.
Sign-off: End your cover letter professionally, and add your full name and a brief mention of attached documents.
Pro tip
Make sure your cover letter visually matches your CV (same font, spacing, and tone). This creates a unified and polished result.
How to write a quantity surveyor cover letter introduction
Your cover letter opening paragraph should immediately demonstrate who you are, what you offer, and why you're applying. This is your pitch, so clarity and confidence are paramount.
Key things to include in your QS cover letter introduction:
Exact position of the vacancy
Your current or most recent role and specialisation
A brief highlight of your core strengths.
Quantity surveyor cover letter introduction examples
Quantity surveyor apprenticeship cover letter introduction example
I am writing to express my interest in the Quantity Surveyor Apprenticeship at Taylor & Smith. Currently studying for my A-Levels in Maths, Business and Design Technology, I am keen to begin my career in construction with a company renowned for supporting young talent and delivering complex projects across the UK. I bring strong numerical skills, a proactive attitude, and a genuine interest in commercial construction.
Quantity surveyor graduate cover letter introduction example
As a recent Quantity Surveying graduate from the University of Salford, I am excited to apply for the Graduate QS role at Kier Group. My academic background in construction law, cost management and procurement strategy, combined with my internship experience at a regional contractor, has prepared me to contribute effectively to your commercial team from day one.
Trainee quantity surveyor cover letter introduction example
I am writing to apply for the Trainee Quantity Surveyor position at Arcadis. With an HNC in Construction and the Built Environment, and recent hands-on experience assisting a project QS on-site, I am excited to develop further under the guidance of an experienced team and contribute to projects that prioritise sustainability and precision.
Junior quantity surveyor cover letter introduction example
I am writing to express my interest in the Junior Quantity Surveyor position at BAM Nuttall. Having supported cost control and subcontractor coordination on infrastructure projects over the last 18 months, I’m ready to take the next step in my surveying career with a company recognised for innovation and collaboration.
Senior quantity surveyor cover letter introduction example
I’m excited to apply for the Senior Quantity Surveyor role at CostPlan Group. With over 12 years of commercial experience across residential, education and healthcare sectors, I bring a track record of delivering projects on time and under budget while leading junior staff and fostering long-term client relationships.
Civil quantity surveyor cover letter introduction example
I’m writing to apply for the Civil Quantity Surveyor role at VolkerStevin. With 7 years of experience delivering heavy civil projects in rail and water sectors, I am confident in my ability to manage complex subcontract packages and drive value across the full project lifecycle.
Assistant quantity surveyor cover letter introduction example
I am writing to express my interest in the Assistant Quantity Surveyor position at Willmott Dixon. With a year’s experience supporting measurement and procurement on public sector refurbishment projects, I am eager to build on this foundation and contribute to high-quality, community-focused builds.
Intermediate quantity surveyor cover letter introduction example
I am applying for the Intermediate Quantity Surveyor role at Lendlease. Over the past four years, I’ve developed from a graduate to independently managing packages on £30m+ projects. I’m now seeking a new challenge with a firm known for its sustainable developments and global presence.
How to write a quantity surveyor cover letter body
Use these one, two or three body paragraphs to demonstrate specific capabilities, link your skills to the company’s work, and show the value you’ve delivered in previous roles.
Pro tip
Highlight a specific project with quantifiable results where you managed costs from tender to final account, showing how your negotiation and tracking skills helped keep it on time and on budget.
Tips for a compelling QS cover letter body:
Mention project sizes or contract types.
Describe your role in cost management, contract administration, value engineering, or procurement.
Highlight a result, like cost savings, client satisfaction, or successful handover.
Include collaboration with site teams, clients, or contractors.
If applying to a consultancy, highlight stakeholder management and reporting.
If applying to a contractor, emphasise commercial risk control and subcontractor negotiations.
Quantity surveyor cover letter body examples
Quantity surveyor apprenticeship cover letter body example
In my final year of school, I completed a week-long work experience placement with a local housebuilder, shadowing the commercial team. I was introduced to key concepts like valuations, BOQs, and tender processes, which confirmed my interest in quantity surveying. I also helped my school’s eco-club with cost planning a small greenhouse build, sparking my appreciation for cost control and resource planning.
Graduate quantity surveyor cover letter body example
During my placement with Harper Construction, I supported the QS team on a £6.5m school extension. I assisted with subcontractor tenders, compiled take-offs using Bluebeam, and updated cost reports weekly. This hands-on experience, paired with my academic studies in NEC contracts and measurement, has built a strong foundation in both theory and practice.
Trainee quantity surveyor cover letter body example
At my current role with Stonebridge Civils, I work alongside senior QSs to manage subcontractor payments and site measures. I’ve recently taken the lead on monthly valuations for groundwork packages, improving turnaround times by 20%. My accuracy and eagerness to learn have been recognised through early exposure to cost forecasting and reporting.
Junior quantity surveyor cover letter body example
In my role at Ellis & Co, I’ve been responsible for maintaining cost trackers, issuing payment certificates, and compiling variation claims across two residential schemes. My careful documentation recently helped recover an additional £15,000 on a disputed variation. I enjoy working closely with site teams and bring a solution-focused mindset to problem-solving.
Senior quantity surveyor cover letter body example
As Senior QS on a £25m healthcare redevelopment, I led the cost strategy from pre-construction to final account, achieving a 4% saving through early supply chain engagement. I mentored two junior QSs and implemented a digital cost reporting tool that improved transparency and client confidence.
Civil quantity surveyor cover letter body example
While at BridgeBuild Ltd, I managed multiple drainage and retaining wall packages on a flood defence scheme. I handled compensation event assessments under NEC4, worked closely with planners to manage risk registers, and helped negotiate EOT claims, securing £250k in recoverable costs for the contractor.
Assistant quantity surveyor cover letter body example
At Clearview Developments, I assist with the procurement and valuations for a new-build care home. I’ve taken ownership of subcontractor liaison and invoice reconciliations. I also worked with our sustainability lead to include lifecycle costing in early design-stage meetings, contributing to long-term value assessments.
Intermediate quantity surveyor cover letter body example
At SJ Bennett, I’ve independently managed the finishes package on a £40m mixed-use development. I coordinated with design teams, led subcontractor negotiations, and produced monthly CVRs, helping to maintain margin throughout the project despite scope changes.
How to conclude your quantity surveyor cover letter
End your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role, aligning yourself with the company’s values or mission, and expressing your willingness to discuss the opportunity further.
Quantity surveyor cover letter conclusion examples
Quantity surveyor apprenticeship cover letter conclusion example
I’m excited by the opportunity to start my career with Taylor & Smith, whose commitment to training and sustainability aligns with my values. I would welcome the chance to learn from your experienced commercial team and contribute to meaningful construction projects. Thank you for considering my application.
Graduate quantity surveyor cover letter conclusion example
I’m drawn to Kier’s broad portfolio and strong graduate support network. I believe my academic and placement experience would allow me to make a positive start in your team. I would be delighted to discuss how I can support your commercial goals further. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Trainee quantity surveyor cover letter conclusion example
I’m eager to continue developing my skills with Arcadis, whose focus on digital construction and sustainability reflects my career goals. I would value the opportunity to contribute to your commercial team and learn from your industry leaders.
Senior quantity surveyor cover letter conclusion example
CostPlan Group’s commitment to innovation and technical excellence resonates with me. I’m confident that my commercial expertise and leadership experience could help drive further success across your portfolio. I’d welcome the chance to explore how I can contribute further in an interview.
How to write a quantity surveyor cover letter with no experience
No professional quantity surveyor experience? Focus on your education section, transferable skills, and enthusiasm for the field. If you’ve done coursework, placements, or part-time work, mention it.
Pro tip
If you have little to no experience, highlight key strengths for a quantity surveyor role, like numeracy, attention to detail, teamwork, and knowledge of industry standards (e.g. RICS, JCT, NEC).
Tips for writing a QS cover letter with no experience:
Show awareness of the QS role and what it involves
Link academic learning to real-world application
Highlight extracurriculars like society roles and budgeting tasks
Mention computer skills or certifications
Show career intent, such as working toward chartership.
QS cover letter example without experience
Download this free QS cover letter example in PDF.
How to make your quantity surveyor cover letter ATS-friendly
In 2025, many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen applications and filter candidates. To make sure your quantity surveyor cover letter is ATS-friendly, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Use relevant keywords from the job description, such as: “cost planning”, “procurement”, “NEC contracts”, “budget control”, “value engineering”, “forecasting”, “interim valuations”, and “final accounts”.
Demonstrate awareness of industry terms while staying focused on the specific requirements outlined in the job description.
Keep formatting clean and simple by using distinct and well-structured paragraphs.
Quantity surveyor cover letter essentials
Keep your cover letter focused, professional, and around one page.
Tailor each application to the specific role and employer.
Use figures and results to demonstrate value.
Highlight both technical and soft skills, like teamwork, communication, and negotiation.
End with a confident invitation for further discussion.
Next steps?
Pair your cover letter with a professional, keyword-optimised CV. Want expert guidance? Our CV and cover letter builders come with ready-to-use templates and formatting AI tools that make your application stand out. You can also explore our CV writing services, designed to provide tailored support for navigating the UK job market with confidence. For more insights and step-by-step guides, refer to our career blog and find out more about the most influential industries, top tech opportunities or interview tips for the civil service selection process.
FAQs
Is quantity surveying a good career?
Yes, quantity surveying is a rewarding and stable career with strong demand in the UK and globally. It offers good progression opportunities, competitive salaries, and the chance to work on a variety of construction and infrastructure projects. It suits those who enjoy numbers, problem-solving, and working across different build stages.
What do quantity surveyors do?
Quantity Surveyors manage the financial and contractual side of construction projects. They estimate costs, prepare tender documents, manage budgets, assess variations, and ensure value for money throughout the project. They often liaise with clients, contractors, and design teams to keep the project financially on track.
For more inspiration, check out similar cover letter examples, like Financial Analyst, Finance, or Accountant.
What skills should a quantity surveyor have?
A good QS should have strong numerical and analytical skills, attention to detail, and solid knowledge of construction methods and contracts. Communication, negotiation, and commercial awareness are equally important, along with IT skills and the ability to manage deadlines and pressure.
How should I answer “Why should we hire you as a quantity surveyor”?
Focus on how your skills, education and/or experience align with their needs. Mention your understanding of cost control, contracts, or procurement, and give a brief example of how you’ve added value to a previous project. End by showing enthusiasm for the role and the company’s work and values. Here, we recommend using the STAR interview technique, a popular method that can help you answer competency-based questions in a structured and professional way.
Is a quantity surveyor an engineer?
Not exactly. While quantity surveyors work closely with engineers and understand construction processes, they are commercial professionals rather than technical engineers. However, some QSs come from engineering backgrounds, and roles may overlap on complex or infrastructure-heavy projects.
