At a Glance
- Tasks: Take ownership of tenders and influence project selection in a hands-on role.
- Company: Join a family-run contractor known for quality projects and a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car, phone, laptop, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a valued role with autonomy and responsibility.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Construction Estimator with strong commercial awareness and attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Construction Estimator with a building background to join a well-established contractor delivering a diverse range of projects from £50k to £2m across the commercial, education, healthcare, and residential sectors.
Working within a close-knit, family-run business, you will take full ownership of tenders and work directly with senior leadership, giving you real influence over project selection and the future pipeline of the company. If you are currently in a role where you feel like just another number, this position offers the chance to be genuinely valued, trusted, and given the autonomy to make an impact.
About the Company
This is a long-established, family-run building contractor with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality projects across multiple sectors including commercial, education, healthcare, and residential. The business has built long-standing client relationships and benefits from a consistent pipeline of repeat work. Known for its supportive and down-to-earth culture, the team operates in a collaborative environment where individuals are trusted, respected, and given real responsibility.
The Role
As Construction Estimator, you will take full ownership of tenders from initial enquiry through to final submission, working closely with Directors and playing a key role in securing new business. Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing accurate, competitive, and commercially sound tenders
- Reviewing drawings, specifications, and full tender documentation
- Managing subcontractor and supplier enquiries and analysing returns
- Identifying risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions
- Attending site visits and pre-tender meetings where required
- Taking full responsibility for tender submissions and deadlines
- Supporting the handover of successful tenders into project delivery
This is a hands-on role offering full visibility across the pre-construction process, with genuine autonomy and accountability.
Requirements
- Proven experience working as a Construction Estimator within the building sector
- Ability to manage tenders independently and take full ownership of the process
- Experience pricing projects across sectors such as commercial, education, healthcare, or residential
- Strong understanding of construction methods, cost planning, and procurement
- Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documentation
- Strong commercial awareness and attention to detail
- A proactive, self-sufficient approach with the confidence to liaise directly with senior stakeholders
This role would suit candidates currently working as: Estimator, Construction Estimator, Building Estimator, Senior Estimator, or Pre-Construction Estimator.
Remuneration Package
£50,000 - £60,000, Company Car, Company Phone and Laptop, Benefits Package
Next Steps
Please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion.
About David Leslie Ltd
David Leslie Ltd is a family-run construction recruitment consultancy with over 20 years experience connecting professionals and employers across the UK. Specialising in the Building, Fit-Out, and M&E Building Services sectors, our approach is built on trust, integrity, and long-term partnerships, ensuring both clients and candidates receive a service that is personal, transparent, and expertly delivered.
Construction Estimator in Chelmsford employer: DAVID LESLIE LTD
David Leslie Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and down-to-earth work culture where employees are genuinely valued and trusted. As a family-run business in Basildon, Essex, we provide our Construction Estimators with the autonomy to influence project selection and a consistent pipeline of diverse projects, fostering both personal and professional growth within a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Estimator in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the construction industry and let them know you're on the lookout for a Construction Estimator role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of current construction trends and techniques. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the projects the company is involved in, especially in sectors like commercial and healthcare.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of past tenders you've worked on to demonstrate your expertise. This will not only highlight your experience but also give you a chance to discuss your thought process and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining a family-run business that values its team members.
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Estimator in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Construction Estimator role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing tenders and working with different sectors like commercial and healthcare. 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 passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our family-run business. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love that!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, don’t just list your duties. Instead, showcase your achievements and the impact you've made in previous roles. We’re interested in how you’ve taken ownership of tenders and contributed to project success.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive – a quality we value highly!
How to prepare for a job interview at DAVID LESLIE LTD
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Construction Estimator, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in pricing and cost planning. Brush up on your previous projects and be ready to discuss specific figures, methodologies, and how you approached tender submissions. This shows you’re not just familiar with the numbers but can also articulate your thought process.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Since this role is within a family-run business, it’s crucial to show that you align with their supportive and collaborative culture. Research the company’s values and be prepared to discuss how your work ethic and approach fit into their environment. Share examples of how you’ve thrived in similar settings.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about interpreting drawings, specifications, and technical documentation. Review common construction methods and be ready to explain how you would manage subcontractor enquiries or identify risks in a project. This will showcase your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Autonomy
This role offers genuine autonomy, so be prepared to discuss instances where you’ve taken ownership of a project or tender. Highlight your proactive approach and how you’ve successfully managed deadlines and responsibilities independently. This will reassure them that you can handle the level of accountability they’re looking for.
