Location: Southampton
Duration: Permanent
Smart City Recruiters are representing a long‑established industrial roofing and cladding contractor with over three decades of delivery across commercial and industrial sectors. The business works with both Main Contractors and direct clients, delivering projects ranging from small reactive works through to multi‑million‑pound design & build packages.
Due to continued growth, our client is seeking an experienced Estimator to join their team and play a key role in pricing works, supporting tender submissions, and strengthening commercial performance.
The Role
This is a varied and hands‑on estimating position suited to someone who enjoys working across a broad spectrum of project values — from small works, variations and remedial packages, through to full tender submissions for complex industrial roofing and cladding schemes.
The ideal candidate is proactive, reliable, commercially aware and able to self‑manage. You’ll be comfortable communicating with clients, suppliers and internal teams, and confident producing accurate, competitive and well‑structured tenders. A “no job too small” mindset and a practical, solutions‑focused approach are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Tendering & Estimating
* Manage and deliver the full tender process from initial enquiry through to submission and post‑tender negotiation.
* Prepare detailed Bills of Quantities, feasibility assessments and cost breakdowns.
* Price industrial roofing, cladding and associated construction works for both Main Contractor tender packs and direct client quotations.
* Analyse drawings, specifications and schedules to ensure full scope coverage.
* Produce clear, accurate and competitive costings for small works, variations and extras.
* Complete tender documentation, submit on time and follow up professionally.
Collaboration & Communication
* Build strong working relationships with clients, suppliers and subcontractors.
* Work closely with the Contracts Manager and in‑house draughtsperson to ensure alignment between pricing, design and delivery.
* Liaise with suppliers to obtain competitive material quotations and maintain up‑to‑date cost information.
Commercial & Technical Input
* Support cost engineering, value‑added solutions and alternative specifications where appropriate.
* Maintain accurate records of tender submissions, cost data and supplier pricing.
* Assist in developing and improving internal estimating processes and systems.
Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience in estimating within construction.
* Industrial roofing and cladding experience is highly desirable, though candidates from wider industrial/commercial construction backgrounds will also be considered.
* Strong ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
* Confident communicator with the ability to build rapport with clients and suppliers.
* Experience using estimating software/systems (advantageous).
* Familiarity with schedules of rates and cost‑build‑ups.
* Competent user of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
* Full UK driving licence and CSCS card beneficial.
Role Particulars
* Immediate start available
* Office‑based role with occasional site visits/meetings
* Modern office environment with free parking
* Small, friendly team environment
* Strong transport links
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays (including 5 compulsory days for Christmas shutdown)
Salary description
£45000.00 - £60000.00 per year