Senior Estimator
An established main contractor is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Estimator to support the continued growth of their commercial team. This is an excellent opportunity for a Senior Estimator with a strong main contracting background and detailed knowledge of the full tender process.
The successful Senior Estimator will price a varied range of refurbishment, restoration and construction projects, working across multiple trades and taking responsibility for tenders from initial enquiry through to handover.
The Role
As Senior Estimator, you will review drawings, specifications and tender information to produce accurate and commercially competitive submissions. You will work closely with subcontractors, suppliers and internal delivery teams to identify risk, clarify scope and ensure all elements of a project are correctly priced.
Key responsibilities will include:
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Preparing detailed estimates, cost plans and tender submissions
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Completing take-offs and quantification from drawings and specifications
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Managing the tender process from initial enquiry through to submission
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Obtaining and analysing subcontractor and supplier quotations
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Pricing packages including scaffolding, roofing, decorating, stone restoration, carpentry and glazing
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Identifying commercial risks, scope gaps and design inconsistencies
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Supporting value engineering and tender negotiations
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Preparing detailed handovers for project and commercial teams
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Working confidently with JCT contracts and associated tender documentation
The Senior Estimator will need a strong understanding of construction methods, sequencing and subcontract packages across a broad range of trades.
Required Experience
The ideal Senior Estimator will have:
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10+ years' estimating experience working for a main contractor
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Strong knowledge of the complete tender process
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Proven experience working with JCT contracts
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Extensive knowledge of refurbishment and construction trades
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Strong understanding of drawings, specifications and schedules
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Excellent commercial, numerical and analytical skills
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Experience using Excel and estimating software
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A Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or similar qualification is desirable
Package
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£50,000 - £65,000 salary
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Full-time, permanent position
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25 days holiday plus bank holidays
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Pension scheme
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Professional development and CPD support
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Clear opportunities for career progression
The Opportunity
This Senior Estimator position would suit an experienced main contractor estimator who understands how to build a tender from the ground up. The successful Senior Estimator will have the opportunity to take ownership of complex bids and play an important role within a growing construction business.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Estimator in Bromley
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Brandon James Ltd Careers, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Senior Estimator at Brandon James Ltd Careers.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brandon James Ltd Careers
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
