Senior Estimator – Construction

Senior Estimator

Salary: £50,000 – £70,000

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to prepare competitive and profitable tenders while supporting the successful delivery of construction projects. The successful candidate will play a key role throughout the pre-construction and bidding process, working closely with internal teams, clients, consultants, and subcontractors.

Key Responsibilities

Act as the main point of contact with clients and professional teams throughout the tender process.

Review tender documentation and communicate requirements to the bid team.

Liaise with internal and external designers to develop pricing-ready designs.

Prepare quantity take-offs from tender drawings and specifications.

Build rates for Bills of Quantities using labour, plant, and material costs.

Prepare and issue subcontract and supplier enquiries.

Support tender-stage planning and programme development.

Identify opportunities for value engineering and innovation.

Coordinate tender submissions to ensure all documentation meets client requirements.

Present completed tenders for internal approval prior to submission.

Produce and submit final tender documents.

Manage tender processes from initial enquiry through to award.

Support the delivery of design and build opportunities within the bid team.

Utilise digital estimating tools and 5D cost planning systems where applicable.

Participate in tender risk reviews and health checks to minimise commercial risk.

Ensure cost plans and estimates accurately reflect project scope and risk profiles.

Support post-tender negotiations with clients and consultants.

Provide comprehensive handovers to project delivery and commercial teams following successful bids.

Continuous Improvement Responsibilities

Contribute to ongoing business improvement initiatives.

Identify operational challenges and propose practical solutions.

Ensure compliance with quality, environmental, health, and safety procedures.

Promote teamwork and collaboration across departments.

Participate in training and continuous professional development activities.

Maintain high professional standards and support best practice across all estimating activities.

General Requirements

Maintain confidentiality regarding company and client information.

Work safely and efficiently in line with company procedures and HSE guidance.

Demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Manage workload effectively while meeting strict deadlines.

Work independently using initiative and attention to detail.

Maintain a professional appearance and conduct at all times.

Develop a strong understanding of company procedures, systems, and compliance requirements.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications

HNC, HND, Degree, or equivalent qualification within the construction industry.

Essential Experience & Skills

Tender analysis and contract review.

Cost estimating and whole-life costing.

Experience developing and pricing tenders.

Reading and interpreting technical drawings.

Planning and risk assessment.

Procurement and subcontractor pricing.

Strong commercial awareness.

Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

Effective communication and teamwork skills.

Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Previous construction industry experience.

Desirable Knowledge & Experience

BIM-enabled design processes.

Lean methodologies.

Knowledge of contract law.

Understanding of construction materials and methods.

Awareness of current and emerging construction technologies.

Experience with digital estimating and cost-planning tools.

Knowledge of quality assurance and waste management practices.

Understanding of offsite construction methods and value propositions