Senior Estimator

As our main contract client continues to strengthen its pre-construction and tendering capability, the business is seeking to appoint an ambitious and commercially focused Estimator or Senior Estimator.

The role is intentionally flexible and is suitable for either:

1. An Estimator looking to develop their career and progress towards a Senior Estimator position.
2. An established Senior Estimator seeking to work on a diverse portfolio of complex refurbishment, heritage and conservation projects.

The successful candidate will play an important role in ensuring tenders are commercially robust, technically considered and aligned with client expectations. Working closely with the pre-construction, commercial, planning, and operational teams, the role offers exposure to a variety of projects across the Heritage and neighbouring divisions with a primary focus on our Heritage projects ranging from complex refurbishment projects for schools and private clients to conservation and restoration projects for sensitive museum spaces.

Role Overview
The Estimator / Senior Estimator will be responsible for preparing, coordinating and supporting the production of accurate cost estimates and tender submissions from initial enquiry through to tender submission and project handover.
For candidates joining at Estimator level, the role provides a structured opportunity to develop technical, commercial and leadership skills with the support of the experienced pre-construction team, creating a clear pathway towards Senior Estimator.
For candidates joining at Senior Estimator level, the role will involve taking ownership of larger and more complex tenders, mentoring junior team members, leading tender adjudications and supporting the ongoing development of estimating processes and best practice across the business.
The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to both traditional and two-stage tender opportunities, with particular emphasis on refurbishment, heritage, listed building and occupied-building projects.

Reporting Structure & Development
The Estimator / Senior Estimator will report directly to the Pre-Construction Manager, working closely together to deliver successful tender submissions and drive continuous improvement across the pre-construction function.
The role offers regular exposure to senior decision-making, tender strategy development and client engagement activities, providing an excellent platform for professional growth and career progression.
For candidates joining at Estimator level, the Pre-Construction Manager will provide ongoing support, mentoring and development, helping build the technical, commercial and leadership skills required to progress into a Senior Estimator position.
For candidates joining at Senior Estimator level, the role will involve working as a trusted member of the pre-construction team, supporting the Pre-Construction Manager in leading major tender opportunities, mentoring junior team members and contributing to the wider development of the estimating function.

Leadership & Team Responsibilities
1. Support and share knowledge with junior estimators and members of the pre-construction team.
2. For Senior Estimators, provide mentoring, guidance and technical leadership to developing estimators.
3. Contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating standards, cost databases and tendering processes.
4. Promote collaboration and knowledge sharing across the wider pre-construction function.

Qualifications & Experience
1. Experience working within an estimating role for a main contractor, specialist refurbishment contractor or heritage contractor preferred.
2. Suitable for an Estimator looking to progress into a Senior Estimator position or an established Senior Estimator seeking a new challenge.
3. Experience of refurbishment projects is essential.
4. Heritage, conservation, listed building or complex existing-building experience would be highly desirable.
5. Experience pricing projects within education, healthcare, commercial, cultural, residential or public sector environments would be advantageous.
6. Strong understanding of subcontract procurement, tendering processes and commercial risk management.
7. Degree, HNC/HND or equivalent qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Building Surveying or a related discipline is desirable but not essential.
8. Experience of two-stage tendering and negotiated projects would be beneficial