Estimator in Leeds

Estimator in Leeds

Leeds Full-Time 42750 - 52250 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Jobiqo

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create detailed cost plans and competitive tenders for exciting civil engineering projects.
  • Company: Join a respected contractor known for delivering complex infrastructure and rail projects.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, hybrid working, pension scheme, and ongoing training.
  • Other info: Collaborative team culture in a modern office environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing business with clear progression opportunities.
  • Qualifications: HNC/HND/Degree in Civil Engineering or related field; hands-on estimating experience considered.

The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.

Civil Engineering / Infrastructure / Rail

We are currently supporting a well-established and highly respected contractor in their search for an experienced Estimator to strengthen their commercial teams.

The role would be based in South Yorkshire or West Leeds.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing business delivering complex projects across the civil engineering, infrastructure, rail and specialist construction sectors.

The successful candidate will play a key role in the pre-construction process, producing accurate and competitive cost plans, tender submissions, and pricing strategies that support continued project success.

Working closely with commercial, operational and technical teams, you will be responsible for developing detailed estimates, assessing project risks, and contributing to strategic tender decisions.

Key Responsibilities as an Estimator

  • Produce detailed cost plans and competitive tender submissions for a broad range of infrastructure and construction projects.
  • Build estimates using first-principles pricing techniques, incorporating labour, plant, materials, subcontractor packages, logistics and productivity assumptions.
  • Prepare and develop Schedules of Rates (So R) based on resource analysis, construction methodology and benchmark pricing.
  • Carry out detailed quantity take-offs from engineering drawings, specifications and technical documents using both digital and manual measurement methods.
  • Review and interpret contract documents, bills of quantities, technical specifications and project scope information.
  • Support the development of practical construction methodologies, sequencing plans, access strategies and temporary works considerations.
  • Obtain and assess quotations from subcontractors, suppliers and specialist providers to ensure commercially robust tender submissions.
  • Identify and evaluate commercial, technical, operational and programme risks, contributing to tender risk reviews and mitigation planning.
  • Prepare tender clarifications, assumptions, qualifications and adjudication documentation.
  • Work collaboratively with planning, engineering, operations and commercial teams to ensure proposals are practical, competitive and deliverable.
  • Maintain and develop internal pricing databases, benchmark cost libraries and historical estimating records.
  • Contribute to value engineering exercises and alternative construction solutions to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
  • Develop and maintain knowledge of NEC contracts, framework agreements and client-specific commercial requirements.
  • Participate in tender review meetings, bid handovers and post-submission negotiations where required.
  • Ensure compliance with internal quality standards, management systems and industry best practice.
  • Continuously develop technical estimating knowledge and remain informed of market trends, cost movements and sector developments.
  • Estimator Candidate Profile

We are keen to speak with estimators who can demonstrate strong technical pricing capability alongside a practical understanding of construction delivery.

Qualifications

  • HNC / HND / Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline
  • Equivalent hands-on estimating experience will also be considered

Skills & Experience

  • Experience preparing estimates within civil engineering, rail, infrastructure or multidisciplinary construction environments
  • Strong understanding of first-principles estimating and resource-based pricing methodologies
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications and contract documentation confidently
  • Experience producing Bills of Quantities and/or Schedule of Rates
  • Strong commercial awareness and analytical capability
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and relevant estimating software packages
  • Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tender deadlines
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams
  • Knowledge
  • Good understanding of civil engineering and/or rail construction techniques and delivery methods
  • Familiarity with NEC contracts and framework-based project delivery environments
  • Appreciation of tender risk management and value engineering principle
  • What's on Offer
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Hybrid, flexible working (up to 2 days hybrid per week after probation)
  • Pension scheme
  • Life insurance
  • Sick pay
  • Paid volunteer days
  • Ongoing training and development
  • Clear progression opportunities
  • Modern office environment and collaborative team culture

Estimator in Leeds employer: Jobiqo

Bromley Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a local government pension scheme and unique discounts, the Council prioritises employee well-being and career growth. Located in the vibrant Bromley Civic Centre, you will be part of a team that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the borough while enjoying the balance of urban and suburban life.

Jobiqo

Contact Details:

Jobiqo Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Estimator in Leeds

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 Jobiqo, 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 at Jobiqo.

We think you need these skills to ace Estimator in Leeds

Cost Estimation
First-Principles Pricing Techniques
Quantity Take-Offs
Contract Document Interpretation
Risk Assessment
Tender Submission Preparation
Microsoft Excel Proficiency

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 Jobiqo

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!