Estimator

Skilled Careers; London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job description

Job Title: Estimator

Location: London

Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 plus car allowance

Reports to: Director / Group Estimating Director

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Estimator to join our growing team in London. As an Estimator, you will play a critical role in preparing accurate cost estimates for high-profile construction projects across a variety of sectors including commercial, residential and mixed-use projects. This is an excellent opportunity to work with an industry-leading company, helping to deliver profitable, de-risked bids while learning from experienced professionals. With a focus on excellence, you will contribute to producing timely and competitive tenders, ensuring that projects are both profitable and successfully delivered.

Key Responsibilities

1. Tender Leadership: Lead the preparation and submission of accurate cost estimates for projects, including labour, materials, and overheads.
2. Pricing and Bid Strategy: Review contract documents, specifications, and drawings to prepare detailed, accurate, and competitive estimates. Work closely with the senior estimators to finalise bid strategies and determine appropriate resources and methodologies for tenders.
3. Risk Management: Identify and manage risks during the estimation process. Proactively recommend solutions and value engineering options to reduce risk and maximise profitability.
4. Supply Chain Management: Lead the supply chain enquiry process, collaborating with suppliers and subcontractors to ensure accurate and up-to-date quotations are obtained. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure the best pricing and quality for the project.
5. Cost Control & Accuracy: Monitor and track all costs involved in the project tendering process. Ensure accurate pricing, and make adjustments based on new information or changing circumstances.
6. Collaboration: Work collaboratively with project managers, senior estimators, and other departments to ensure a smooth transition from tender to contract stage.
7. Tender Review & Progress Monitoring: Ensure the tender process is being followed effectively and report on progress through estimating plans. Provide detailed feedback to senior management on tenders and tender performance.
8. Post-Bid Support: Assist the project delivery teams with cost-related queries post-award, ensuring a seamless handover and supporting the team through any project adjustments or variations.
9. Health & Safety Adherence: Follow all relevant health and safety regulations, ensuring that estimates reflect safe, feasible working practices.
10. Continuous Improvement: Contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating procedures, techniques, and systems, sharing ideas for increasing efficiency and accuracy.

Qualifications & Experience

1. Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
2. Minimum 3 years' experience working as an Estimator or in a similar role, ideally within the UK construction industry.
3. Experience with new build, refurbishment, or commercial projects is preferred.
4. Strong knowledge of estimating software and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
5. Excellent understanding of construction costs, processes, and methodologies.
6. Proven ability to develop and manage cost models for construction projects.
7. Familiarity with construction contracts (JCT, NEC, etc.) is highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies

1. Commercial Acumen: Ability to evaluate financial risks, understand cost implications, and drive profitability in all estimating activities.
2. Attention to Detail: Strong analytical and methodical approach with a focus on accuracy in cost estimation and reporting.
3. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and present estimates to senior management.
4. Organisational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tenders simultaneously, ensuring that deadlines and quality standards are met.
5. Problem Solving: Proactive in identifying potential issues or risks and developing practical solutions.
6. Team Player: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work well within a team, as well as independently when needed.
7. Adaptable & Proactive: Willingness to take on new challenges, learn from feedback, and contribute to the growth of the company.

What We Offer

1. Competitive Salary: £55,000 - £65,000, based on experience.
2. Car Allowance: Competitive package.
3. Travel Covered: Fully reimbursed travel costs for site visits and project meetings.
4. Career Growth: Clear opportunities for progression within a leading construction company.
5. Professional Development: Continuous training and development to help you progress in your career.
6. Work Environment: A collaborative, inclusive, and dynamic team with a focus on delivering high-quality projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented Estimator who is looking to take the next step in their career and join an exciting, fast-paced construction environment. If you are ready to make an impact and work on innovative, high-profile projects, we would love to hear from you.