At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to estimate and manage exciting commercial painting projects.
- Company: A growing commercial painting contractor in London with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Starting salary from £35,000, training, and genuine career progression.
- Other info: Work closely with experienced professionals and enjoy exposure to major projects.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and shape your career in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: 6-12 months of relevant experience in construction estimating or quantity surveying.
A growing commercial painting and decorating contractor is looking for an ambitious Junior Estimator to join its commercial team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone at junior, trainee or assistant level who already has some exposure to construction estimating, quantity surveying or commercial support. You will work alongside experienced commercial professionals while gradually taking ownership of tenders and developing your responsibilities.
You do not need to be the finished article. The business is looking for someone with approximately 6–12 months of relevant construction experience, a proactive attitude and the confidence to ask questions, find information and make the role their own. The role would suit a Junior Estimator, Assistant Estimator, Trainee Estimator or Assistant Quantity Surveyor looking to develop within a specialist subcontracting environment.
What you will be doing:
- Reviewing tender enquiries, drawings, specifications and bills of quantities.
- Measuring works and completing take-offs for commercial painting and decorating packages.
- Assisting with the preparation of accurate and competitive estimates.
- Building up labour, material, access and subcontractor costs.
- Obtaining and comparing quotations from suppliers and specialist subcontractors.
- Identifying scope gaps, tender risks, qualifications and potential opportunities.
- Preparing quotations, tender returns and supporting documentation.
- Liaising with clients, suppliers, subcontractors and site teams to obtain information and resolve queries.
- Attending occasional site visits, tender meetings and project handovers.
- Maintaining accurate tender records and supporting the wider commercial team.
- Taking on greater responsibility as your knowledge and confidence develop.
What we are looking for:
- Approximately 6–12 months of experience within construction estimating, quantity surveying or commercial support.
- Applications are welcomed from junior, trainee and assistant-level candidates.
- Experience with a specialist subcontractor or construction finishing trade would be advantageous.
- Painting and decorating, fit-out, drylining, flooring, ceilings, joinery or related trade experience would be particularly relevant.
- Some experience reading construction drawings, specifications or bills of quantities.
- Good numerical ability and strong attention to detail.
- Competence with Microsoft Excel.
- Experience with digital take-off software would be beneficial, although further training can be provided.
- Clear written and spoken English, with the confidence to communicate professionally.
- A proactive and resourceful approach to finding information and solving problems.
- Commercial awareness and a genuine desire to build a long-term career.
- Ability to work full-time from the Central London office.
What is on offer:
- Starting salary from £35,000, dependent on experience.
- Genuine progression as your responsibilities and contribution grow.
- Scope for your salary to develop alongside your role.
- Training and support from experienced commercial professionals.
- Exposure to major commercial projects across London and the South East.
- Direct contact with senior management, clients, suppliers and project teams.
- The opportunity to shape the position and make it your own.
- A permanent role within a growing specialist contractor.
How to apply:
Apply with your CV and a short note outlining your construction estimating, quantity surveying or specialist subcontractor experience.
Painting Estimator employer: Optima Site Solutions Ltd
Optima Site Solutions is an excellent employer for Labourers, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its team members. With over 20 years in the industry, employees benefit from diverse project opportunities in Minster on Sea, along with access to ongoing training and career advancement. Join us to be part of a company that values your skills and fosters a rewarding work environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Painting Estimator
✨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 Optima Site Solutions Ltd, 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 Painting Estimator at Optima Site Solutions Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Painting Estimator
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 Optima Site Solutions Ltd
✨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!
