Contract Administrator in London

Position: Contract Administrator

Location: Dalston

Salary: £25,000-£28,000 depending on experience

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Sector: Landscape Construction and Maintenance

About Our Client: We are a well-established and fast-growing business specialising in commercial landscape construction and grounds maintenance. Our projects span public realm schemes, commercial developments, housing, education, and high-end private estates. With a strong reputation for quality, teamwork, and reliability, we are committed to developing our people and delivering outstanding service to our clients.

We are now seeking a capable and enthusiastic Contract Administrator Graduate to join our head office team in a multi-functional support role, offering exposure across several departments. This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to build a career in landscape contracting, project management, quantity surveying, or business operations.

About the Role: As a Contract Administrator / Graduate, you'll be working alongside our estimating, operations, commercial, and administrative teams to help keep projects running smoothly and efficiently. This is a varied role requiring adaptability, initiative, and strong communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Estimating & Commercial Support

• Support with preparation of cost estimates, tender submissions, and client pricing.
• Analyse drawings, bills of quantities, and specifications.
• Compile and update pricing databases and supplier quotes.
• Assist with value engineering and budget planning.

• Support the Contracts Manager and Site Supervisors with project coordination.
• Help produce and update work programmes and delivery schedules.
• Assist with arranging labour, tools, and materials for ongoing projects.
• Track project progress and assist with compiling internal reports.

• Place orders for plants, materials, consumables, and equipment hire.
• Monitor supplier lead times and delivery schedules.
• Liaise with external suppliers to ensure best value and service.
• Help maintain accurate records of stock, hire returns, and material usage.

• General office duties including document control, filing, and data entry.
• Support the implementation and upkeep of project documentation, RAMS, and site packs.
• Assist with health & safety documentation and training records.
• Help maintain compliance logs for vehicles, plant, and equipment.

• Act as a point of contact between departments, sites, and head office.
• Coordinate diaries for meetings, inductions, and site visits.
• Support HR/admin teams with onboarding new staff and maintaining records.
• Contribute to staff communication tools (e.g., newsletters, memos, intranet updates).

Requirements:

Essential:

• Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject such as Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, or Environmental Management.
• A strong interest in the landscaping, horticulture, or construction industry.
• Good organisational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Competent user of Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.
• A proactive approach with a willingness to learn and take on new challenges.

Desirable:

• Previous work experience in construction, horticulture, or landscape environments.
• Familiarity with estimating software or project management tools.
• Full UK driving licence.

What You'll Gain:

• A unique opportunity to work across multiple departments and gain insight into the inner workings of a successful landscape business.
• Training and mentoring from experienced professionals.
• Clear pathways for progression into estimating, operations, commercial management, or site-based roles.
• Involvement in real-world, high-impact projects.
• A friendly, collaborative team environment where your contribution matters.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and progression opportunities
• Company pension scheme
• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Support with further training and professional development
• Free on-site parking
• Exposure to sustainable and innovative landscaping practices

Chappell Enterprises UK is an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and are a Disability Confident Employer, offering interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum essential criteria for the role.