Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator

Location: Southampton

Salary: £80,000 - £100,000 plus package

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent (Hybrid)

About the Company

An established and highly regarded construction business with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality construction projects across a diverse range of sectors. The business has built its success on long-standing client relationships, technical expertise and a commitment to delivering projects safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.

With a growing portfolio of opportunities and continued business development, the company is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Estimator to strengthen its pre-construction and estimating team.

The Role

As Senior Estimator, you will play a key role in the successful procurement and commercial delivery of new projects, taking responsibility for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates and tenders across a varied portfolio of construction schemes.

Working closely with the pre-construction, commercial and operational teams, you will oversee the estimating process from initial enquiry through to tender submission and handover, ensuring all bids are commercially robust, competitive and aligned with the company's strategic objectives.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced construction estimator looking to take ownership of significant tender opportunities and contribute to the continued growth of an established contractor.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the preparation of detailed cost estimates and competitive tenders for a range of construction projects.
• Analyse tender documentation, drawings, specifications and employer's requirements to establish project scope and pricing strategies.
• Prepare accurate cost plans, bills of quantities, tender breakdowns and pricing schedules.
• Obtain, assess and negotiate quotations from subcontractors, suppliers and specialist trades.
• Identify commercial risks, opportunities, value engineering options and potential cost-saving initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with the pre-construction, commercial and operational teams to develop effective tender strategies.
• Attend site visits and tender meetings to gain a thorough understanding of project requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors and suppliers.
• Ensure tender submissions are completed accurately and within agreed deadlines.
• Support tender presentations, client interviews and post-tender negotiations.
• Assist with the successful handover of secured projects to the delivery and commercial teams.
• Mentor and support junior members of the estimating team where required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, systems and procedures.

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience working as an Estimator or Senior Estimator within the construction industry.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, procurement processes and subcontractor packages.
• Experience preparing and managing competitive tenders for building and construction projects.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications and tender documentation.
• Strong commercial awareness with excellent analytical and numerical skills.
• Demonstrable experience obtaining and negotiating subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tenders and prioritise workloads effectively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and relevant estimating software.
• A relevant construction qualification would be advantageous.

Personal Attributes

• Commercially astute with a strong attention to detail.
• Proactive, organised and able to work independently.
• Confident in making commercial decisions and challenging costs where appropriate.
• A collaborative team player who can build effective working relationships.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work to tight deadlines.
• Ambitious and motivated to contribute to the ongoing success of the business.

What's on Offer?

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to join an established and reputable construction business.
• Exposure to a varied portfolio of interesting construction projects.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• The opportunity to play a key role in the company's continued growth and success.

If you are an experienced construction estimator looking for your next challenge within an established and forward-thinking contractor, we would welcome a confidential conversation