At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the estimating process for exciting construction projects and prepare competitive tenders.
- Company: Established construction business known for quality and strong client relationships.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and a chance to influence project strategy.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking team and make a real impact on diverse projects.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in construction estimating with strong analytical and communication skills.
An established and growing construction business is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Estimator to join its pre-construction team in Chorley. The company delivers a diverse portfolio of new build, refurbishment and regeneration projects across the residential, commercial, education and industrial sectors. Its approach is built around quality, commercial strength, strong client relationships and practical value engineering.
This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious estimator who wants to play a significant role in the continued growth of a forward-thinking construction business.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Project Management, you will take ownership of the estimating process from initial enquiry through to tender submission, ensuring bids are commercially robust, competitive and aligned with client requirements. You will:
- Lead the preparation and submission of detailed tenders across a range of construction projects.
- Review drawings, specifications, scopes and other tender documentation.
- Develop accurate cost plans, estimates and budgets.
- Obtain and assess subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Identify commercial risks, opportunities and value-engineering solutions.
- Work closely with project management, design and commercial teams to develop effective tender strategies.
- Prepare clear and compelling bid proposals that demonstrate value and understanding of the client's requirements.
- Analyse historical project and cost data to establish benchmarks and improve estimating accuracy.
- Contribute to the ongoing development of estimating processes, systems and methodologies.
- Support negotiations with clients, consultants, subcontractors and suppliers.
- Help drive continuous improvement and the effective use of technology within the pre-construction function.
The Candidate
You will be an experienced construction estimator with a strong understanding of the commercial and technical aspects of delivering new build and refurbishment projects. You should have:
- At least 5 years' relevant construction estimating experience.
- A proven track record of preparing competitive tenders within a main contracting environment.
- Experience across new build and refurbishment projects.
- Strong analytical and numerical skills with excellent attention to detail.
- The ability to interpret drawings, specifications and construction information.
- Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, subcontractor procurement and cost planning.
- Excellent IT and estimating software skills.
- Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder-management abilities.
- A commercially minded approach, with the confidence to challenge assumptions and identify opportunities.
- A relevant degree or equivalent professional experience in construction, civil engineering, quantity surveying or a related discipline.
Why Join?
This is a chance to join a business with an established reputation for reliability, quality and long-term client relationships, while contributing directly to its continued growth. The company works across Northern England and Wales and has experience ranging from specialist projects through to major commercial and regeneration schemes.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Work on a varied and interesting project portfolio.
- Take genuine ownership of the estimating function.
- Work closely with senior leadership and influence project strategy.
- Develop innovative approaches to estimating and value engineering.
- Join a collaborative team with strong technical and commercial expertise.
- Progress your career within a growing construction business.
- Contribute to projects that deliver lasting value for clients and communities.
Senior Estimator in Chorley employer: Kingdom People
At Kingdom People, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As an Engineering Manager in our dynamic team, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, competitive compensation, and the chance to make a significant impact on cutting-edge high-voltage electronics projects. Our commitment to employee growth and a supportive environment makes us a standout choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Estimator in Chorley
✨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 Kingdom People, 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 Senior Estimator at Kingdom People.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Estimator in Chorley
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 Kingdom People
✨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!