At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare competitive estimates for fast-track fit-out projects and manage multiple tenders.
- Company: Well-established fit-out contractor with a strong reputation in the UK construction sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team environment, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Join a growing company and work on exciting projects with major national brands.
- Qualifications: Experience in estimating within fit-out or construction sectors is essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Salary: £50k - £70k plus package
Location: Preston
Job Type: Permanent
About the Company
Our client is a well-established and nationally recognised fit-out contractor delivering high-quality construction, joinery, and corporate interior solutions across the UK. With decades of experience within the construction and fit-out sector, the business has built a strong reputation for delivering fast-track projects to the highest standards across retail, leisure, hospitality, and commercial environments. Working with major national brands, particularly within the fast-food and retail sectors, the company provides full turnkey fit-out solutions ranging from refurbishment and re-imaging programmes through to complete interior transformations.
Due to continued growth and a strong pipeline of secured work, they are now looking to appoint an experienced Fit Out Estimator to strengthen their pre-construction team.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Fit Out Estimator to join the commercial team delivering fast-track fit-out projects across the UK. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially aware individual with a strong background in retail, leisure, or fast-track fit-out environments who is capable of managing multiple tenders and supporting the wider pre-construction function of the business. The successful candidate will play a key role in the preparation, coordination, and submission of competitive tenders while working closely with operational, commercial, and client teams. Experience delivering fast-paced refurbishment and rollout programmes within the food retail sector, including restaurant re‑imaging projects, would be highly advantageous.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare accurate and competitive estimates for fast-track fit-out and refurbishment projects
- Review tender documentation, specifications, and drawings
- Produce detailed take-offs and pricing documents
- Obtain and analyse subcontractor and supplier quotations
- Identify commercial risks and value engineering opportunities within tender submissions
- Prepare subcontractor enquiry packages and manage tender returns
- Attend site visits, pre-tender meetings, and client meetings where required
- Work closely with operational and commercial teams throughout the tender process
- Manage multiple tenders simultaneously within a fast-paced environment
- Assist with bid strategies and tender presentations
- Maintain accurate estimating records and documentation
- Support senior management with pre‑construction and business development activities
Requirements
- Previous experience within an Estimator role within the fit-out or construction sector
- CAT A, CAT B, retail, leisure, or fast-track fit-out experience is essential
- Experience delivering refurbishment and rollout programmes for major national brands would be advantageous
- Strong understanding of fit-out construction methods and commercial processes
- Proven experience preparing tenders and managing bid submissions independently
- Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills
- Ability to manage multiple tenders within a busy environment
- Strong communication and negotiation skills
- Good technical understanding of construction methods and fit-out processes
- Excellent IT skills including Microsoft Excel and estimating software
- Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team
Desirable
- Experience working on fast-food, restaurant, or hospitality fit-out projects
- Experience delivering McDonald’s re‑imaging or fast-track fit-out programmes
- Knowledge of Design & Build projects
- Knowledge of JCT contracts
Why Apply?
- Excellent opportunity to join a growing and highly respected fit-out contractor
- Strong pipeline of secured fast-track fit-out projects
- Opportunity to work with major national retail and hospitality brands
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Clear progression and long-term career development opportunities
- Competitive salary and benefits package
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Our recruitment process is designed to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.
Estimator in Lancaster employer: Building Careers UK
Join a well-established and nationally recognised fit-out contractor in Preston, where you will be part of a supportive and collaborative team dedicated to delivering high-quality construction and interior solutions. With a strong pipeline of secured projects and opportunities for clear progression, this role as a Fit Out Estimator offers competitive salary and benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the fast-paced fit-out sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator in Lancaster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the fit-out and construction industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent work, especially in fast-track fit-out projects. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of a Fit Out Estimator. Highlight your skills in managing tenders and your understanding of commercial processes. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Estimator role. Highlight your experience in fit-out projects, especially in retail and fast-track environments. 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 the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of your past work that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your technical skills, especially with estimating software and Microsoft Excel. We love candidates who can demonstrate their proficiency in these areas, as they’re crucial for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Building Careers UK
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your numerical prowess. Brush up on your estimating techniques and be ready to discuss how you prepare accurate and competitive estimates. Familiarise yourself with common pricing documents and take-offs so you can speak confidently about your process.
✨Understand the Fit-Out Landscape
Make sure you have a solid grasp of fit-out construction methods and commercial processes. Research recent projects in the retail and hospitality sectors, especially any fast-track refurbishments. This will not only show your interest but also help you relate your experience to the company's needs.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple tenders. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've identified commercial risks or value engineering opportunities. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your decisions.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you work with operational and commercial teams. Share examples of successful teamwork, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your communication and negotiation skills, as these will be crucial in managing tender processes.
