An established and highly regarded construction business is looking to appoint an experienced Estimator to play a key role within its senior pre-construction function.The business delivers a varied portfolio of construction projects for both public and private sector clients, with a strong reputation for quality, collaborative delivery and long-standing client relationships. Its work covers new build, refurbishment and design & build schemes, supported by an established supply chainWith a healthy pipeline and continued plans for growth, this is an opportunity to join the business at an important stage of its development.
The Role
Reporting directly into the Senior Leadership Team, you will take responsibility for pricing and tendering projects typically ranging from £5m to £15m.Importantly, this isn't simply a role where you'll inherit an established process and be expected to follow it. There is a genuine opportunity to mould and shape the estimating and bids function, helping to develop the systems, processes and overall approach to securing new work.
Responsibilities will include:
- Managing tenders from initial enquiry through to final submission
- Pricing construction projects typically valued between £5m and £15m
- Producing detailed and commercially robust estimates
- Reviewing tender documentation, drawings and specifications
- Managing subcontractor and supplier enquiries
- Analysing quotations and identifying best value
- Carrying out risk and opportunity reviews
- Working closely with the commercial, operational and senior leadership teams
- Supporting tender interviews, clarifications and negotiations
- Developing estimating, tendering and bid processes across the business
- Helping improve consistency around bid strategy, tender reviews and submissions
- Providing commercial input into project selection and tender strategy
About You
This role would suit an experienced Estimator from a main contracting / general building background who wants more ownership and influence within a business.
You'll ideally have:
- Strong estimating experience within building construction
- Experience pricing projects of a similar scale and complexity
- Good knowledge of subcontractor and supplier markets
- A thorough understanding of construction methods and tendering
- Strong commercial awareness
- The ability to manage tenders independently
- A collaborative approach when working with operational and commercial teams
Why Join?
The real attraction here is the level of influence the successful person can have
You'll be working directly with the Senior Leadership Team and will have the opportunity to put your own stamp on how the business approaches estimating and bids going forward
For someone who enjoys winning work but also wants to improve processes, influence strategy and build something, this offers considerably more scope than a traditional Estimator position
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
Estimator (Construction) in Chester employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers
Hays Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for SEN SLD/PMLD teachers in the Hounslow/Hillingdon area. With access to exclusive vacancies, ongoing professional development, and a dedicated consultant to guide your career, you will find ample opportunities for growth while making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with special educational needs. Join us to be part of a community that values inclusivity and fosters both personal and professional development.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator (Construction) in Chester
✨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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers, 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 Estimator (Construction) at Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers.
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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers
✨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!
