The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates and tender submissions for construction or engineering projects. The role supports business development by ensuring competitive and commercially sound bids aligned with project requirements and company objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse drawings, specifications, and tender documents
- Prepare detailed cost estimates including labour, materials, plant, and subcontractors
- Obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations
- Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering options
- Liaise with clients, consultants, and internal teams
- Prepare and submit tender documentation within deadlines
- Attend pre- and post-tender meetings
- Maintain cost databases and historical records
- Support handover to project delivery teams
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications independently
Qualifications
- Proven experience preparing estimates and tender submissions
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications independently
- Experience in pricing projects across relevant sectors (e.g. residential, commercial, civils)
- Strong understanding of subcontractor procurement
- Familiarity with standard forms of contract (e.g. JCT, NEC)
- Good communication and stakeholder management skills
- Strong commercial awareness and risk assessment capability
- Experience managing a team or mentoring junior estimators
- Proven track record of winning work and delivering competitive bids
- Advanced knowledge of cost planning and value engineering
- Ability to liaise with senior stakeholders and clients
Skills & Competencies
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Commercial awareness
- Time management and ability to meet tight deadlines
- Negotiation skills
- Strong IT skills (Excel essential; estimating software preferred)
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving
Desirable Qualifications
- Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or Engineering
- Membership of professional body such as:
- RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors)
- CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building)
Typical Sectors in the North West
- Residential housing developments
- Commercial builds (offices, retail)
- Infrastructure and civil engineering
- Rail and transport projects
- Industrial and logistics facilities
DCS Recruitment and all associated companies are committed to creating a working environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated fairly, regardless of gender, gender identity, disability, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, age, or nationality
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