Cost Estimator

Main Purpose

To develop accurate, transparent, and auditable cost estimates for FM and maintenance services across M&E (Mechanical & Electrical) and building fabric assets in office buildings and shopping centres. This includes using industry standards such as SFG20 and applying condition-based maintenance methodologies to build reliable pricing models that align with both operational realities and corporate governance requirements.

Overview of Duties

• To produce detailed and compliant estimates for FM and maintenance services.
• To ensure estimates reflect the correct scope, frequency, and methods aligned with statutory, SFG20, condition-based maintenance strategies and BICS methodologies.
• To support finance and operational teams with robust, justifiable models to inform pricing, bids, and new business / contract renewals.
• To develop tools and templates that enhance consistency, transparency, and auditability in pricing models.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain pricing models for planned maintenance services incorporating SFG20 task schedules, statutory compliance, and asset condition.
• Evaluate and interpret asset registers, condition surveys, and client specifications to develop scope and resource-based estimates data.
• Apply cost and productivity benchmarks for labour, materials, and subcontractors to ensure estimates are competitive and realistic.
• Collaborate with asset managers, engineers, and surveyors to understand maintenance strategies and integrate them into pricing.
• Prepare clear, auditable documentation that supports internal governance, client assurance, and contract compliance.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry best practices, cost trends, and technological developments in FM and building maintenance.
• Assist in reviewing client proposals and tender documents to identify commercial and technical risks or opportunities.
• Support continuous improvement of estimating tools and methodologies to enhance accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Proficient in using SFG20, CAFM systems, and maintenance planning tools.
• Strong Excel and data analysis skills with ability to build complex cost models and outputs.
• Working knowledge of condition-based and predictive maintenance strategies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and commercial audiences.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking capabilities.
• Familiarity with common commercial contract structures and risk transfer approaches.

Experience:

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in estimating or cost planning within FM, M&E services, or building maintenance.
• Demonstrable experience producing cost models and estimates for multi-site, commercial environments (e.g., offices, retail).
• Understanding of M&E systems (HVAC, electrical, water systems) and building fabric components (doors, windows, roofs, finishes).
• Experience working with technical asset data, condition surveys, and statutory compliance frameworks.
• Previous involvement in tendering or bid support for facilities management or maintenance contracts is desirable.

Personal Attributes:

• Methodical, detail-oriented, and organised in approach.
• Integrity and a commitment to producing high-quality, defensible outputs.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
• Adaptable and proactive in response to changing project or client needs.
• Commitment to continuous learning and development in estimating best practices and FM technologies.