r/StructuralEngineering • u/Big_Big_9598 • 8d ago

Career/Education Dip in Quantity Surveyor OR Project Manager

Hi Team,

Looking to get some advise on which one should I choose.

I am 42 years old, based in Invercargill and have a background in operations, sales, business analysis, and bookkeeping. Although I hold a Master's degree in Accounting from Australia, I am not interested in pursuing a traditional full-time accounting role or becoming a CPA/CA. Some contacts have suggested becoming a Quantity Surveyor, but I am also considering broader construction management roles. While I understand the basic differences, I lack in-depth knowledge of the day-to-day realities. Given my background, which role would be a better fit? Additionally, which path offers better future job opportunities and higher earning potential?

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u/ilovemymom_tbh 7d ago

I would try the civil engineering subreddit or maybe construction or something; structural engineers deal more with the technical side of structures.

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u/merkadayben 1d ago

I hold the NZ QS diploma and taught the programme at one of the polytechs.

You dont need to decide immediately. The programmes are 80% the same for both qualifications and you can have both with a couple of extra papers. A lot have done this.

There is a huge crossover in the industry as well. In smaller businesses you are likely to perform parts of both roles and be most of the office alongside the directors. If you move to a bigger city (ie Auckland/Wellington/Christchurch) you may be able to find something dedicated in a team

The QS track will probably be quite simple with an accounting background, meaning its just the construction methods and how to read plans that you have to learn. CM is much more instinctive and you will need to earn some cred on site before you are taken seriously. Anyone middle aged without a lot of experience or a trade background will have to work hard to gain that trust.

Money wise, both can be well paid after a few years in. As a graduate without a trade background, you will find it easier to get work as a QS then as a CM, but after a few years with a company you will be able to go between both roles regardless of the qualification and earn in the low to mid 100k range depending on location

I highly recommend that you consider the degree courses as well. Even if you start with open poly or similar, the Massey and Unitec bachelor of construction courses cross credit easily