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- Tasks: Manage cost estimates and procurement for exciting construction projects.
- Company: Established contractor known for quality and collaboration in building and refurbishment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stable work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on teamwork and career development.
- Why this job: Join a hands-on team and make a real impact on construction projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in estimating or buying, with strong attention to detail and negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This role supports a growing construction-focused business by managing cost estimates and procurement activities. The position ensures accurate pricing, timely purchasing, and supplier engagement across projects, helping deliver profitable, well-controlled works from tender stage through to completion while maintaining robust controls, collaboration, and commercial awareness throughout daily operations and reporting.
Client Details:
- A well-established contractor operating across building and refurbishment projects
- Strong reputation for quality delivery and long-term client relationships
- Privately owned with a stable order book and repeat business base
- Known for a practical, hands-on and collaborative working culture
Description:
- Prepares detailed cost estimates for tenders and live projects
- Sources and negotiates with suppliers and subcontractors
- Places purchase orders in line with project programmes
- Performs drawing take offs
- Reviews drawings and specifications to assess cost risks
- Works closely with commercial and operational teams
- Maintains accurate cost records and procurement trackers
- Monitors budgets and reports cost movements
- Supports value engineering and cost-saving initiatives
Profile:
- Proven experience as an Estimator, Buyer, or combined role
- Background in construction or building services environments
- Able to read technical drawings
- Strong understanding of pricing, procurement, and cost control
- Confident negotiating with suppliers and subcontractors
- Able to interpret drawings and technical specifications
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Comfortable working independently and within small teams
- Proficient with Excel and estimating or procurement systems
Job Offer: Salary circa £40,000 - £50,000 with some small flexibility on this.
Estimator/Buyer (Wall Cladding) in Reading employer: Michael Page
Contact Detail:
Michael Page Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator/Buyer (Wall Cladding) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend local construction events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨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. This gives potential employers a tangible sense of what you can do, especially when it comes to cost estimates and procurement.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Brush up on your knowledge of pricing strategies, supplier negotiations, and cost control. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re the right fit for the Estimator/Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator/Buyer (Wall Cladding) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in estimating and procurement, especially in construction. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects you've worked on!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Estimator/Buyer role. We love seeing enthusiasm for the industry and a clear understanding of what we do at StudySmarter.
Show Off Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves reading technical drawings and using Excel, make sure to mention your proficiency in these areas. We appreciate candidates who can demonstrate their ability to interpret specifications and manage cost records effectively.
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’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your cost estimation skills. Be prepared to discuss how you approach pricing and procurement, and have examples ready that showcase your ability to manage budgets effectively.
✨Understand the Drawings
Since this role involves interpreting technical drawings, take some time to review common wall cladding specifications. Being able to discuss how you assess cost risks from these drawings will show your expertise and attention to detail.
✨Supplier Engagement Skills
Think about your past experiences negotiating with suppliers and subcontractors. Prepare to share specific examples of successful negotiations and how you built those relationships, as collaboration is key in this role.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
This position requires strong organisational abilities, so be ready to talk about how you maintain accurate cost records and procurement trackers. Highlight any systems or tools you use to stay organised and ensure timely purchasing.