Estimator Construction in Oldham

An established construction business is seeking an experienced Estimator to join its Pre-Construction division. This role is responsible for managing the full tendering and estimating process, delivering accurate, competitive, and commercially viable estimates in line with fluctuating market conditions. The Estimator will play a critical role in supporting work-winning activities and maintaining strong client relationships throughout the tender lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Tender Process Management

• Receive, review, and organise tender documentation.
• Upload all tender information into CRM software and maintain an up-to-date tender register.
• File and manage documents on the internal server for clear project visibility.
• Conduct initial bid appraisals to support bid/no-bid decisions.
• Identify key client stakeholders and decision makers.
• Review workload weekly with the Pre-Construction Manager to agree tender priorities.
• Fully interpret the scope of works and accurately measure client drawings.
• Produce marked-up drawings and clear take-off lists.
• Prepare accurate preliminary costs considering programme, specifications, and operational requirements.

• Build up rates using client specifications and standard estimating formats.
• Review contract conditions and scope to ensure full bid compliance.
• Prepare general and project-specific qualifications and clarifications.
• Produce high-quality tender submissions for approval prior to client issue.
• Continuously monitor market conditions to maintain competitive pricing.
• Submit bids on time, supporting the business's work-winning process.

• Assess tenders for risks and opportunities, reporting strategies back to the Pre-Construction Manager.
• Research and understand competitor activity for each project.

• Present full project details at handover meetings following a successful bid.
• Liaise with operational and commercial teams throughout the tender process.
• Ensure seamless transition of documentation and communication from estimating to pre-construction.

• Produce tender information for estimating timetables and resource planning.
• Update tender spreadsheets and CRM systems regularly.
• Generate weekly tender progress reports for review with the Pre-Construction Manager.

• Act as a proactive point of contact for clients throughout the tender journey.
• Provide solutions and respond to client queries professionally.
• Issue tender submissions upon internal approval.
• Follow up with clients post-submission and report updates for weekly internal meetings.

Values & Behaviours

The successful candidate will naturally align with core industry values such as teamwork, honesty, doing things right the first time, and striving for excellence in all areas of work.

Skills, Experience & Personal Attributes

Essential

• Strong data management and software skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings.
• Understanding of on-site operational delivery.
• Commercially aware and financially astute.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Effective communicator with strong influencing skills.
• Process-driven and structured in approach.
• Experience managing diverse stakeholder groups.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills.

Desirable

• Technical knowledge in Drylining, SFS, Metframe, or similar.
• Understanding of construction preliminary cost build-ups.
• Awareness of construction contracts and commercial processes.
• Knowledge of construction programming methodologies.

Qualifications

Essential

• A-Level education (or equivalent).
• Construction-related qualification (preferably HNC or above).

Desirable

• Technical product training.
• Professional membership (e.g., RICS, CIOB).