At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Estimator, managing bids for exciting civil engineering projects.
- Company: MJ Church is a top Civil Engineering contractor in England, delivering impactful projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements, competitive salaries, and great perks like a car allowance.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team focused on growth and professional development in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum three years' estimating experience in civil engineering; strong analytical and communication skills required.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and mentoring junior team members.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 54000 £ per year.
MJ Church is a leading Civil Engineering and Earthworks contractor operating across England. We deliver projects valued between £100,000 and £80 million for public and private sector clients across diverse industries. Alongside our core construction services, we have a growing waste management business expanding across the Southwest and Wales.
Joining MJ Church offers an exciting and challenging opportunity for driven individuals seeking professional and personal growth in a dynamic, results-focused environment.
In response to significant business growth and a robust project pipeline, we are seeking to appoint multiple Estimators. This critical Pre-Construction role demands precision, commercial acumen and a methodical approach to ensure our bids remain both competitive and accurate. You will oversee the full estimation lifecycle for civil engineering and bulk earthworks projects, analysing technical documentation, building first-principles cost models, and liaising with internal stakeholders, suppliers and subcontractors.
We offer genuine flexibility in working arrangements, provided you can attend our offices or project sites as required. We are supportive of contracted hours being worked flexibly over the week to support professional development and personal commitments.
Key responsibilities:- Cost Modelling: Prepare comprehensive estimates for labour, materials, plant and subcontract packages.
- Technical Review: Critically assess drawings, specifications and works information.
- Tender Management: Lead the estimating process from initial enquiry through to final bid submission.
- Supply Chain Engagement: Establish and maintain strategic relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to secure optimal rates and delivery.
- Documentation & Handover: Produce clear, structured tender handover documentation and contribute to continuous process improvement.
- You are a commercially astute construction professional with a strong background in estimating within civil engineering and earthworks.
- You enjoy working as part of a collaborative team and bring analytical rigour, attention to detail, and a proactive mindset to your work.
- Minimum of three years’ professional estimating experience within civil engineering and/or earthworks.
- Proven competence in first principles estimating and the preparation of Bills of Quantities (BoQs).
- Proficiency in industry-standard estimating software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
- In-depth knowledge of UK highways specifications, construction methodologies and cost drivers.
- Exceptional communication, negotiation and stakeholder management abilities.
- Experience on large-scale or technically complex projects.
- Sound understanding of project management processes.
- Demonstrated leadership or mentoring of junior team members.
- Up-to-date awareness of health, safety and environmental regulations.
- Degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying or Construction Management.
- Salary: we are seeking multiple estimators with varied levels of experience; salary will depend on experience. From Junior Estimator at £50,000 to Senior Estimators up to £90,000 per annum.
- Car allowance or company vehicle.
- 24 days plus statutory bank holidays.
- Pension: Contributory scheme.
- Free on-site parking.
- Holiday buy and sell scheme.
- Cycle to work scheme.
Please note that unfortunately we are unable to sponsor visa candidates.
Estimators employer: MJ Church Contracting
Contact Detail:
MJ Church Contracting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimators
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with MJ Church's recent projects and their approach to civil engineering and earthworks. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of MJ Church on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your technical skills, especially in industry-standard estimating software and advanced Microsoft Excel. Being proficient in these tools will not only boost your confidence but also make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with first principles estimating and Bills of Quantities (BoQs) in detail. Be ready to share specific examples from your past work that highlight your analytical skills and attention to detail.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimators
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in estimating within civil engineering and earthworks. Emphasise your proficiency in first principles estimating and any experience with Bills of Quantities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your commercial acumen and analytical skills. Mention specific projects you've worked on and how your contributions led to successful outcomes.
Highlight Technical Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in industry-standard estimating software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills. This is crucial for the role and will set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Communication Abilities: Since the role involves liaising with stakeholders, suppliers, and subcontractors, provide examples of your exceptional communication and negotiation skills in your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at MJ Church Contracting
✨Showcase Your Estimating Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with cost modelling and first-principles estimating. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully managed the estimation lifecycle, highlighting your analytical skills and attention to detail.
✨Understand the Company and Its Projects
Research MJ Church and their recent projects in civil engineering and earthworks. Understanding their work will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to UK highways specifications and construction methodologies. Brush up on relevant regulations and be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your estimating processes.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As an estimator, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Be ready to showcase your communication and negotiation skills during the interview, perhaps by discussing a time when you successfully managed a challenging stakeholder relationship.