Mechanical Estimator
Mechanical Estimator | M&E Building Services | South Coast | £60,000–£75,000 + Car Allowance + Benefits
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Estimator to join a respected M&E Building Services contractor delivering projects from £200k to £5m across the commercial, office fit-out, healthcare, education, industrial, and leisure sectors.
The company has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality Mechanical Building Services installations and is known for its collaborative culture, technical capability, and long-standing client relationships. With a secure pipeline of repeat business and continued growth, they are now looking to strengthen their pre-construction team.
Projects typically include full mechanical packages such as HVAC systems, heating and cooling plant, ventilation, pipework, public health services, plantroom installations, and mechanical refurbishments across a wide range of commercial environments.
This is a key role within the business, offering the opportunity to play a central part in securing future projects and working closely with design and delivery teams from early-stage enquiry through to tender submission.
The Role – Mechanical Estimator
As Mechanical Estimator, you will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive tenders for mechanical building services projects, pricing full mechanical packages from first principles through to final submission using Ensign estimating software.
You will be involved throughout the pre-construction process, working closely with internal teams, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure commercially sound and technically robust tenders.
Key responsibilities include:
* Preparing detailed and competitive tenders for mechanical building services projects
* Pricing full mechanical packages typically ranging from £200k to £5m
* Producing take-offs, equipment schedules, and labour calculations
* Compiling complete tender submissions using Ensign estimating software
* Reviewing drawings, specifications, and employer’s requirements
* Liaising with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain accurate quotations
* Identifying value engineering opportunities and cost-effective solutions
* Managing multiple tenders and meeting deadlines while maintaining accuracy
For Senior Mechanical Estimators, there is scope to take ownership of larger tenders, mentor junior team members, and play a broader role within the estimating function.
Candidate Requirements
The successful candidate will have a strong background in Mechanical Building Services estimating and will be confident producing full tenders independently.
* Experience as a Mechanical Estimator, Senior Mechanical Estimator, HVAC Estimator, M&E Estimator, or Mechanical Building Services Estimator
* Strong background within M&E or Mechanical Building Services contracting
* Proven experience using Ensign estimating software
* Experience pricing mechanical packages up to £5m+
* Strong technical understanding of HVAC systems, plant, pipework, and associated services
* Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills
* Ability to interpret drawings and specifications and produce detailed tenders
* Strong organisational and communication skills
This role requires experience within mechanical installation contracting. Candidates from FM, maintenance, or service-only backgrounds will not be suitable.
Remuneration Package – Mechanical Estimator
* £60,000 – £75,000
* Car Allowance
* Company Pension Scheme
* Life Cover (Death in Service)
* Employee Wellbeing Support
* Company-Funded Training and Development
* Genuine Career Progression Opportunities
* Additional Benefits
This role would suit candidates currently working as:
Mechanical Estimator, Senior Mechanical Estimator, HVAC Estimator, M&E Estimator, Mechanical Building Services Estimator, Mechanical Pre-Construction Estimator.
Next Steps
Please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion.
About David Leslie Ltd
David Leslie Ltd is a family-run construction recruitment consultancy with over 20 years’ experience connecting professionals and employers across the UK. Specialising in the Building, Fit-Out, and M&E Building Services sectors, our approach is built on trust, integrity, and long-term partnerships, ensuring both clients and candidates receive a service that is personal, transparent, and expertly delivered