Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare detailed cost estimates for exciting construction projects across various sectors.
- Company: Join a leading contractor known for high-profile London refurbishments and fit-outs.
- Benefits: Competitive pay based on skills, with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of construction in London.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in construction estimating with strong analytical and communication skills.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Kenna Recruitment Ltd is a well‑known specialist main contractor focusing on key London refurbishment and fit‑out projects, typically handling schemes up to about £10 million. They work with an approximate turnover of £100 million and aim to maintain this level over the next year. The company is hiring an Estimator to support the Senior Estimator due to an influx of tenders and growth into 2026. The role requires delivering high‑quality work to secure repeat and future business.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates (preliminary, conceptual, and definitive) for projects across multiple sectors (residential, heritage, public buildings, etc.).
- Analyze drawings, specifications, and tender documentation to quantify work.
- Perform take‑offs for materials, labour, plant, and sub‑contractor packages.
- Obtain, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Identify risks, opportunities, and cost‑saving measures; develop value engineering proposals.
- Build and maintain estimating databases and cost libraries.
- Prepare bid documentation, including pricing breakdowns, risk analysis, assumptions, and exclusions.
- Collaborate with the commercial team to develop win strategies, bid schedules, and pricing models.
- Liaise with design, planning, and operations teams to ensure constructability and cost control.
- Provide post‑award support: monitor actual vs estimated costs, advise on variations, assist in change management.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, tools, and methods.
Person Specification / Skills & Experience
- Minimum of 3‑5 years’ experience in construction estimating (contractor side preferred).
- Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and labour rates.
- Proven experience with cost take‑off, measurement, and quantity surveying techniques.
- Proficiency in commercial estimating software (e.g., CostX, BuildSmart, etc.).
- Good understanding of contract types (JCT, NEC, etc.) and procurement routes.
- Strong analytical, numerical, and negotiation skills.
- Excellent communication skills – able to liaise with both internal teams and external suppliers/sub‑contractors.
- Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Management
Industry Construction
Estimator employer: Kenna Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Kenna Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend construction events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Estimator role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills in action! If you’ve got a portfolio of past projects or case studies, bring them along to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your estimating prowess and how you can add value to Kenna Recruitment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Brush up on your knowledge of construction methods, materials, and cost estimation techniques. Being well-prepared will help you stand out as a strong candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented Estimators, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at Kenna Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Estimator role. Highlight your experience in construction estimating and any relevant software skills. We want to see how your background aligns with 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 your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your achievements in estimating and project management. We’re keen to see examples of how you've delivered high-quality work and contributed to successful projects.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from us during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kenna Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your strong analytical skills. Brush up on your knowledge of construction methods, materials, and labour rates. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of cost estimates you've prepared in the past, and how you approached the analysis of drawings and specifications.
✨Familiarise with Software
Make sure you're comfortable with commercial estimating software like CostX or BuildSmart. If you have experience with these tools, be ready to share how you've used them to improve efficiency in your estimating processes. If not, do a bit of research to understand their functionalities.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
You'll be liaising with various teams, so it's crucial to highlight your communication abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with design, planning, and operations teams in the past. This will show that you can work well in a team environment and contribute to win strategies.
✨Prepare for Risk Analysis Questions
Given the role's focus on identifying risks and opportunities, be ready to discuss how you've handled risk analysis in previous projects. Think about specific instances where you developed value engineering proposals or cost-saving measures, and be prepared to explain your thought process.
