NAME: Nicola Keetley
COMPANY/REGION: McCarthy and Stone plc – North East RegionJOB TITLE: Trainee Surveyor
DEPARTMENT: Commercial
WHAT DOES YOUR DEPARTMENT DO?
Provides estimates for developments at different stages, tenders to subcontractors, employing subcontractors, subcontractor agreements, subcontractor payments, cost comparisons, take offs, negotiates with subcontractors.
WHAT DO YOU DO ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS?
Send tender documents to subcontractorsProvide estimates for development at different stagesAssist in the gathering of information for budgetsProvide estimates for extra works requiredCost comparisons on possible materials we may useEnsure quotations are reasonableVisit developments at different stages to check progressAttend meetings regarding sites
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
I enjoy my job immensely. I enjoy doing the product cost comparison to see if they are viable and also visit sites at different stages to see items/learn things which I cannot learn in the office. When I’m on site I have been known to ask if I can try to lay bricks or at least help with something! I have recently been given the go ahead to survey a site on my own, admittedly with people around me, who will help and support me, but it’s a great start and I’ve only been doing the job for 14 months!
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS CAREER?
It’s my way of being involved in creating something, no matter how small an input I had. I’m no good at sitting at a desk all day and with this I get the best of both worlds, site and office (although the majority of the time I am in the office). Having two working environments is beneficial as I get to see two different sides of the process and see how it all comes together.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DID YOU NEED TO GET THIS JOB?
I originally started as a secretary, with no qualifications or experience regarding construction! I expressed an interest in being a surveyor and after 2 years I became Trainee Surveyor. Since beginning this role I now attend college one day a week for a National Certificate in Construction and once completed I will start on the HNC in Construction, again with day release to college.
IS THERE ANY PARTICULAR ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE A GRADUATE OR TRAINEE LOOKING FOR A JOB IN YOUR WORK AREA?
It’s great fun! Being able to actually see something happen. My only suggestion is if you want it, and are dedicated enough nothing will stop you and you will get there. I think I’ve proven that!