At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as an Estimator, managing tenders and preparing cost estimates for exciting projects.
- Company: We're a leading main contractor known for delivering high-quality projects across various sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, car allowance, 33 days holiday, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, work on diverse projects, and make a real impact in construction.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in civils/refurbishment, strong estimating skills, and a full UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with all necessary equipment provided.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Company
Our client is a well-established main contractor delivering projects across industrial, retail, commercial, groundworks, and heritage sectors. They specialize in projects ranging from £5K to £10M, covering new builds, refurbishments, fit-outs, and civil engineering works. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality projects, they are now looking to expand their team with an experienced Estimator.
The Project
As an Estimator, you will play a key role within the pre-construction and commercial team, working on a variety of projects across industrial, retail, commercial, groundworks, and heritage sectors, with values ranging from £5K - £10M. You will be responsible for managing tenders, preparing detailed cost estimates, and engaging with suppliers and subcontractors to secure the best terms.
Requirements
- 3+ years' experience in civils and/or refurbishment projects.
- Experience working with a main contractor (candidates from subcontractors or M&E backgrounds will not be considered).
- Strong ability to complete a full take-off and create subcontractor enquiries.
- Familiarity with Causeway or similar estimating software.
- Experience pricing both single and two-stage tenders.
- Relevant degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field preferred but not essential.
- Full UK Driving License required.
Additional Skills:
- Strong cost analysis and budgeting skills.
- Ability to assess project risks and propose mitigation strategies.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Proficient in using Microsoft Office and relevant estimating software.
The Role
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, including in-house bills of quantities for D&B projects.
- Manage pre-qualification, quality, and pre-bid submissions.
- Work closely with the bid team to develop competitive tender submissions.
- Conduct thorough cost analysis, ensuring pricing accuracy.
- Engage with suppliers and subcontractors, securing competitive quotes and favourable terms.
- Identify risks and mitigation strategies for construction projects.
- Work with the Managing Estimator and other key stakeholders to align with business goals.
- Support the estimating, surveying, and pre-construction teams.
What's on Offer?
- Car allowance
- 33 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- All necessary equipment/PPE provided
- Competitive salary - completely negotiable based on experience
- Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hybrid working negotiable
Estimator - Main Contractor employer: Caval Limited
Contact Detail:
Caval Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator - Main Contractor
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction industry, especially those who work with main contractors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Causeway or similar estimating software if you haven't already. Consider taking a short course or tutorial to enhance your skills, as this will make you a more attractive candidate for the Estimator role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with both single and two-stage tenders during interviews. Be ready to provide specific examples of projects you've worked on and how you managed the estimating process.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent projects and their approach to cost management. This knowledge will help you tailor your discussions and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator - Main Contractor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in civils and refurbishment projects. Emphasise your time spent with main contractors and any specific projects that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your experience with estimating software like Causeway, and how your skills in cost analysis and budgeting make you a strong candidate.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in risk assessment, communication, and negotiation. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed tenders and engaged with suppliers in past roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an Estimator role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Caval Limited
✨Showcase Your Relevant Experience
Make sure to highlight your 3+ years of experience in civils and refurbishment projects. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, focusing on your role and the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Familiarity with estimating software like Causeway is crucial. Be ready to explain how you've used such tools in past roles, and if possible, bring examples of cost estimates you've prepared.
✨Prepare for Cost Analysis Questions
Expect questions about your approach to cost analysis and budgeting. Think of examples where you successfully identified risks and proposed mitigation strategies, as this will show your analytical skills.
✨Engage in Role-Play Scenarios
During the interview, you might be asked to engage in role-play scenarios, such as negotiating with suppliers or subcontractors. Practise these skills beforehand to demonstrate your excellent communication and negotiation abilities.