Graduate training schemes exist for planning and development surveyors, civil and structural engineers, quantity surveyors, environmental engineers, architects and in construction management.

Skills and qualities needed vary depending on the specialism pursued. However there is a core set of skills that employers look for including:

• the ability to prioritize and meet multiple deadlines
  
• a logical approach to work
  
• strong spatial awareness
  
• excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills
  
• the ability to work effectively within a team environment and on your own initiative.

Surveyor
There are four main types of buildings surveyors in Malaysia: quantity surveyors, building surveyors, land surveyors as well as property consultation and valuation surveyors.

Quantity surveyor:
Quantity surveyors (QS) prepare cost estimates and plans for all levels and types of construction as well as audit projects, manage construction costs and administer construction contracts.

Job responsibilities include studying architectural and engineering specifications, and QSs deal with people including architects, engineers and contractors in the course of their work. They also prepare "Bills of Quantities" which lists the components required for the construction of projects. Mainly, they will undertake feasibility studies to determine if a project is worth proceeding with.

Building surveyor:
They deal with building construction, maintenance and repair. Building surveyors also evaluate damage costs of buildings and appraise projects that deal with the restoration of old properties. They also certify new buildings which they deem fit for occupancy.

Land surveyor:
Measurements. That is the key word of their work. Land surveyors deal with measurements either on, above or below the surface of the land and sea. Their responsibilities also include specifying ownership and boundaries of land parcels. They also help to determine construction points as well as off-shore sites for oil and natural gas exploration.

Property consultancy and valuation surveyor:
These surveyors cover areas like valuation of property, property consultancy, property management, market and feasibility studies. They provide valuation advice on industries for purposes of sale, insurance and so on. They also guide clients on how to manage property to gain optimum returns and provide property development and investment advice.

To get there, you will need to be knowledgeable in all types of property and be up-to-date with local and international market trends.

Construction management
Construction managers are also referred to as site managers and building managers. They are generally employed by contractors but opportunities also exist within local authorities and construction firms. They are responsible for undertaking the strategic planning and co-ordination of construction activities to ensure that the required personnel, plant and machinery and materials are available to enable the project to be completed on time, within budget and to the agreed quality.

Responsibilities include:

• coordinating the processes and timetables required to complete a project
  
• monitoring the progress and quality of work
  
• liaising with owners, designers, contractors and suppliers
  
• supervising and co-ordinating sub contractors and suppliers
  
• ensuring that the site conforms with all health and safety regulations.