At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing competitive tenders and engage with suppliers for exciting fit-out projects.
- Company: Leading fit-out specialist transforming workplaces across the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full training, mentorship, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and kickstart your career in estimating within a thriving industry.
- Qualifications: Strong numerical skills; experience in construction or eagerness to learn is a plus.
Salary: £26.5k - £35k plus package
Location: Manchester
Job Type: Permanent
About the Company
Our client is a leading fit-out specialist delivering innovative CAT A and CAT B office environments across the UK. With a strong reputation for transforming workplaces through creative design, high-quality project delivery, and exceptional client service, the business partners with a diverse range of organisations to create inspiring and functional workspaces. Offering a complete service from workplace consultancy and design through to fit-out and project delivery, the company continues to experience sustained growth and has developed an impressive portfolio of commercial office projects. Due to continued expansion and a strong pipeline of secured work, they are now looking to appoint a Junior Estimator to support the growth of their pre-construction team.
The Role
We are seeking an ambitious Junior Estimator to join a growing estimating team delivering CAT A and CAT B commercial fit-out projects. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career within estimating and pre-construction. The role is open to candidates with 1-2 years' experience within estimating, construction, fit-out, or commercial environments, as well as motivated individuals with no previous estimating experience who are eager to learn and develop within the construction industry. Working closely with senior estimators, project managers, commercial teams, and designers, you will gain exposure to all stages of the tendering process while developing valuable commercial and technical skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Tender Preparation
- Assist in the preparation of competitive tender submissions
- Review tender documents, drawings, specifications, and employer requirements
- Carry out quantity take-offs and measurements from drawings
- Prepare bills of quantities and pricing schedules
- Support the compilation of tender return documentation
- Supply Chain Engagement
- Issue enquiries to subcontractors and suppliers
- Track and manage quotation returns
- Compare and analyse subcontractor quotations
- Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and subcontractors
- Cost Planning & Analysis
- Assist in building cost estimates using company pricing databases
- Analyse project costs and identify potential risks and opportunities
- Support value engineering exercises where appropriate
- Maintain records of tender costs and benchmarking data
- Administration & Systems
- Maintain estimating files and tender records
- Update estimating databases and cost libraries
- Assist with tender reporting and bid tracking
- Support measurement and estimating software processes
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating systems and procedures
- Team Support
- Attend internal tender review meetings
- Liaise with project managers, commercial teams, and designers
- Participate in ongoing training and development activities
- Support senior estimators throughout the bidding process
Requirements
Essential
- Strong numerical and analytical skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
- Strong organisational and time-management skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
- Strong communication skills
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment
Desirable
- 1-2 years' experience within construction, fit-out, estimating, or a commercial role
- Knowledge of construction drawings and specifications
- Experience using estimating or measurement software
- Understanding of construction methods and materials
- Relevant qualification in Construction, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related discipline
Personal Attributes
- Enthusiastic and motivated
- Commercially aware
- Methodical and organised
- Collaborative team player
- Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Eager to develop a long-term career within estimating and commercial fit-out
Why Apply?
- Excellent opportunity to join a leading workplace design and fit-out specialist
- Open to both graduates, trainees, and candidates with 1-2 years' experience
- Full training and mentorship from experienced estimating professionals
- Exposure to high-profile CAT A and CAT B office fit-out projects
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Clear progression pathway into Estimator and Senior Estimator roles
- Strong pipeline of secured projects and long-term career stability
- Competitive salary and benefits package
Apply
If you're interested in this opportunity, then please get in touch today by applying to the role. 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.
Please Note: Due to high volume of applicants, only those shortlisted will be contacted.
Junior Estimator in Manchester employer: Building Careers UK
Join a leading fit-out specialist in Manchester, where innovation meets opportunity. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will receive comprehensive training and mentorship from seasoned professionals while working on high-profile projects. The collaborative work culture fosters growth and creativity, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Estimator in Manchester
✨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 Building Careers UK, 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 Junior Estimator at Building Careers UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Estimator in Manchester
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 Building Careers UK
✨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!
