Senior Estimator
Senior Estimator
Permanent | Construction & Design & Build Fit-Out | Hampshire
Hatched Talent is proud to be partnering with a high-performing construction and fit-out business to recruit an experienced Senior Estimator to join their Project Finance function.
This is a commercially critical role, offering strategic influence across the pre-contract lifecycle. You'll lead tender activity, shape competitive and profitable bids, and act as a mentor to the wider estimating team – ensuring commercial rigour without compromising quality or client outcomes.
The Role
Reporting to the Group Commercial Director, you will oversee all financial elements of the pre-contract process. Your remit will include bid strategy, cost planning, subcontractor engagement, and client liaison, ensuring tenders are both competitive and commercially sound.
You'll work closely with design, commercial, and leadership teams, contributing ideas, improving processes, and safeguarding project wins through the full pre-contract phase.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage the preparation of high-quality tenders and detailed cost estimates
Mentor and support estimators, promoting best practice and consistent standards
Attend client briefs to understand technical, commercial, and budget requirements
Review and analyse employer's requirements and tender documentation
Negotiate contractual terms and commercially viable payment structures
Source and evaluate subcontractor quotations, resolving discrepancies
Produce detailed itemised cost plans to support financial control
Work collaboratively with design teams on value engineering initiatives
Support Licence to Alter (LtA) processes and advise clients on validations and surveys
Maintain strong client relationships throughout the pre-contract stage
Review estimating processes and implement improvements
Support senior leadership in team management and recruitment where required
About You
You will be a commercially astute Senior Estimator with strong leadership capability and a proven track record of delivering profitable projects.
Essential experience and skills:
Minimum 4 years' experience as an Estimator, ideally within design & build or fit-out
Demonstrable history of delivering high-margin, successful bids
Strong commercial acumen with the confidence to advise across the business
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
Ability to mentor and develop junior team members
Strong understanding of M&E disciplines
Advanced knowledge of JCT contracts and current building regulations
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; strong working knowledge of Word and Outlook
Qualification or equivalent knowledge of relevant health & safety legislation
Full UK driving licence
Desirable:
Degree or HNC/HND in a construction or commercial discipline
Why Apply?
Senior, influential role within a growing commercial team
High level of autonomy and strategic input
Opportunity to shape bid strategy and estimating processes
Collaborative, values-driven working environment
Exposure to complex, high-quality construction and fit-out projects
If you are a Senior Estimator looking for a role where your commercial expertise, leadership, and judgement will be genuinely valued, we'd welcome your application.
Apply today via Hatched Talent