At a Glance
- Tasks: Create precise cost estimates for high-end commercial and residential projects.
- Company: Premier fit-out and specialist construction contractor in Central London.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, long-term contract, and a stable project pipeline.
- Other info: Opportunity for career stability and growth in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and work on prestigious projects that showcase premium craftsmanship.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in estimating with strong technical knowledge of high-end fit-outs.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced, detail‑oriented Estimator to join a premier fit‑out and specialist construction contractor in Central London. This role is focused on securing high‑specification projects across both the commercial and luxury residential sectors.
About the Projects
- High‑end commercial office fit‑outs and landmark hospitality/leisure spaces.
- Luxury residential refurbishments and structural alterations.
- Specialist architectural carpentry and bespoke joinery packages.
- Full design & build tenders acting as the Principal Contractor.
Key Responsibilities
- First‑Principles Estimating: Produce highly accurate, detailed cost estimates and budget breakdowns from tender drawings, specifications, and scope of works.
- Subcontractor & Supplier Enquiries: Issue clear tender packages to the supply chain (with a heavy focus on joinery, M&E, and high‑end finishes), analyze returns, and negotiate competitive rates.
- Take‑offs & Bill of Quantities (BQ): Carry out precise take‑offs and build comprehensive BQs.
- Risk & Opportunity Analysis: Identify potential project risks, value engineering opportunities, and margin‑enhancement strategies during the bid process.
- Tender Handovers: Present finalized bids to senior management for sign‑off and lead comprehensive commercial handovers to the project delivery and surveying teams upon winning.
Required Skills & Experience
- Proven Portfolio: A strong, referenceable track record of successfully pricing and winning projects across both the commercial and residential sectors (ranging from £500k to £5m+).
- Career Stability: Demonstrable longevity and solid commitment in your recent career history.
- Specialist Knowledge: Deep technical understanding of high‑end fit‑out, refurbishment, and architectural joinery/carpentry pricing.
- Software Proficiency: Strong skills in industry‑standard estimating software (e.g., ConEst, CauseWay, Bluebeam) and advanced Excel.
What We Offer
- Rate: £350 - £400 per day (Depending on Experience).
- IR35 Status: Assessed and confirmed as Outside IR35.
- Location: Central London office‑based with site visits as required.
- Continuity: A highly stable, long‑term contract opportunity backed by a robust project pipeline.
How to Apply
If you have a portfolio of great estimation work and the career stability to back it up, we want to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with a brief summary of your most notable project wins in the commercial/residential sectors.
Estimator employer: Randstad UK
As an Operations Administrator with us, you'll enjoy a flexible home-working environment while being part of a dynamic team that plays a vital role in our business success. We prioritise employee growth and development, offering opportunities for recent graduates to kickstart their careers in a supportive culture that values collaboration and communication. With regular travel to various regional offices, you will experience diverse working environments and build connections across the company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator
✨Join Local Construction Groups
Tap into local construction communities and forums—think Facebook groups, Meetup, or even LinkedIn. These platforms often have job postings specifically for freelancers and can connect you with potential clients who are looking for your skills.
✨Show Off Your Work
Create a public portfolio showcasing your previous projects. This could be through a personal website or platforms like Behance. Potential clients want to see what you can do, so let your best work do the talking!
✨Network at Construction Events
Get out there and attend construction trade shows and local networking events. These are great for making connections and can often lead directly to freelance opportunities, plus you get to meet people who share your passion for the industry.
✨Utilise Online Freelance Platforms
Don't forget to get on freelance job platforms like Upwork and Freelancer that cater to construction gigs. Build your profile there and start bidding on projects. It’s a solid way to get the ball rolling on your freelance journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Craft:In the construction field, it's all about your hands-on experience and the projects you've worked on. Make sure to include detailed descriptions of past projects in your CV or portfolio. Highlight specific skills, tools, and techniques you’ve mastered that are relevant to the work you're applying for at Randstad UK.
Provide a Portfolio:As this is a freelance role, having a solid portfolio is key! Include photos and descriptions of your previous work so potential clients can see what you bring to the table. Showcasing a variety of projects can really help demonstrate your versatility in the construction industry.
Clarify Your Availability and Rates:Freelancing is all about communication, so be clear about your availability and rates in your application. Let Randstad UK know when you can start and what your pricing structure looks like. This helps set the right expectations and shows you’re professional and organised.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:In construction, having the right certifications can set you apart. Mention any industry-relevant qualifications you have, such as health and safety certifications or trade-specific licenses. This not only bolsters your CV but also shows you've got the expertise to get the job done safely and effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad UK
✨Showcase Your Project Portfolio
For a freelance role in construction, we should prepare a strong portfolio demonstrating our previous work. Highlight completed projects, showcasing not just the end result but also the problem-solving skills and tools we used during construction. This visual evidence can really set us apart!
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Understanding the latest construction tools and techniques is essential for standing out. Familiarise ourselves with current methodologies and any new software that's relevant to the industry. If we can discuss how we've used these tools in previous projects, it’ll show that we’re on the ball and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
During the interview, we might face practical questions related to site management or problem-solving on the job. Be ready to discuss specific challenges we've faced in past projects and how we overcame them. This will demonstrate our ability to think on our feet and handle the real-world pressures of the construction field.
✨Pitch Your Rates and Work Style
As freelancers, we need to be clear about our rates and working style. Be prepared to discuss our pricing strategy based on past projects. This is not just about the numbers but conveying the value we bring to potential clients like Randstad UK. Confidence in our worth can go a long way in these discussions!
