Senior Estimator
Senior Estimator
£60,000 – £80,000 (DOE)
Crystal Palace, Greater London
We are recruiting on behalf of a long-established, reputable construction contractor that is entering an exciting new phase of growth.
With decades of successful project delivery behind them and an exceptionally stable leadership team, the business is now seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to establish and lead a newly created Estimating Department.
This is a rare and strategic opportunity for an Estimator who wants genuine influence within a business — shaping processes, driving improvements, and playing a key role in long-term commercial success.
The Role:
As Senior Estimator, you will take responsibility for creating a formal, structured Estimating Department within the business, transitioning tendering work from director level into a fully developed function. This is a hands-on and strategic leadership role, combining technical expertise with the vision needed to build new systems, processes, and best practices.
Key responsibilities include:
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Designing, implementing, and managing a new Estimating Department.
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Developing consistent, efficient systems, tools, and procedures to support accurate tendering.
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Preparing detailed estimates and tender submissions for a diverse range of construction projects.
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Working closely with directors, project managers, and technical teams to produce competitive and compliant bids.
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Analysing drawings, specifications, and contract information to identify risks, opportunities, and value-engineering options.
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Using digital tools and modern estimating methodologies to enhance accuracy and performance.
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Providing strategic insight to improve tender win rates and profitability.
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Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.
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Supporting business development, identifying new markets, frameworks, and tendering opportunities.
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Presenting data, reports, and commercial recommendations to senior leadership.
About You:
We are looking for an ambitious Estimator with both technical capability and the desire to influence how a department is built and managed.
Experience & Skills:
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Solid background in construction estimating, ideally across refurbishment, public-sector, mixed-use or similar project types.
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Strong technical knowledge of construction methods, compliance standards, and industry best practice.
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Proficiency in estimating software and digital tools.
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Excellent analytical, numerical, and communication skills.
Personal Attributes:
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Proactive, enthusiastic, and committed to driving improvement.
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Able to balance hands-on estimating with strategic planning and departmental development.
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Confident and professional in both internal and client-facing environments.
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Collaborative, supportive, and capable of mentoring junior staff as the department expands.
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Ambitious, with the desire and capability to progress into senior management.
What’s on Offer:
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A unique opportunity to build and shape an Estimating Department from the ground up.
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High-level influence on tendering strategy, systems, and future business performance.
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Clear progression route into senior management.
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A supportive, collaborative environment that values innovation and personal development.
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Long-standing company with strong values, excellent staff retention, and a stable leadership structure