At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead tenders and prepare competitive cost plans for exciting fit out projects.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing, innovative fit out contractor in Reading.
- Benefits: Salary up to £75k, strong benefits, and genuine progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact on standout projects and grow your career quickly.
- Qualifications: Experience in estimating for fit outs and strong analytical skills.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with direct access to the Managing Director.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Reading
Salary: £55,000 – £75,000 (depending on experience) + benefits
Company: Leading Fit Out Contractor
Reporting To: Managing Director
Project Values: £1m – £5m
Sectors: Commercial fit outs and refurbishments
The Opportunity
We’re working with an established but rapidly growing fit out contractor, who are looking to expand their pre-construction team with an experienced Estimator.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic, ambitious company delivering high-quality commercial office and industrial fit out and refurbishment projects across South East England.
You’ll be given the autonomy to lead your own tenders and work closely with the Managing Director and wider pre-construction team.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Independently manage and lead tenders from initial enquiry through to submission
- Prepare accurate and competitive cost plans and tender submissions
- Liaise with clients, consultants, and supply chain partners throughout the process
- Carry out site visits and subcontractor pricing evaluations
- Attend tender interviews and presentations as required
- Work collaboratively with design, planning, and delivery teams
- Identify value engineering opportunities and commercial risks
- Support junior estimators or pre-construction staff if required
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as an Estimator in the fit out or refurbishment sector
- Confident managing tenders in the £1m–£3m range
- Strong technical knowledge across office fit out, refurbishment, and cut & carve schemes
- Excellent numerical, analytical, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and under pressure to meet deadlines
- Proficiency in estimation software (e.g. ConQuest, Excel, or similar)
- A proactive, solutions-driven approach
What’s On Offer
- Salary between £55,000 – £75,000 (depending on experience)
- Strong benefits package
- Genuine opportunity for progression as the business continues to grow - you have the chance to become their Head of Commercial within the next 3 years!
- A supportive team environment and direct reporting line to the Managing Director
- The chance to work on standout projects
Apply now to take a lead role in a growing pre-construction team at one of the most exciting up-and-coming contractors in the fit out market.
Estimator in Reading employer: Bigblue Search Ltd
Contact Detail:
Bigblue Search Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success. Tailor your answers to highlight your relevant experience in fit outs and refurbishments.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As an estimator, you might need to present tenders and proposals. Rehearse your pitch to ensure you come across as confident and knowledgeable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Estimator role. Highlight your experience in managing tenders and your technical knowledge in fit outs and refurbishments. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our dynamic team. Keep it concise but impactful, and don’t forget to mention your experience with similar project values.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, be sure to showcase your numerical, analytical, and communication skills. We love candidates who can demonstrate their proficiency in estimation software like ConQuest or Excel, so include any relevant examples!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bigblue Search Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your strong numerical and analytical skills. Brush up on your cost estimation techniques and be ready to discuss specific projects where you've successfully managed tenders in the £1m-£3m range.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Familiarity with estimation software like ConQuest or Excel is crucial. Be prepared to talk about how you've used these tools in past roles to prepare accurate cost plans and tender submissions.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of examples where you've identified value engineering opportunities or managed commercial risks, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Engage with the Team
Since this role involves collaboration with various teams, show your interpersonal skills. Discuss how you've worked with design, planning, and delivery teams in the past, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to a supportive team environment.