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- Tasks: Lead the estimation of complex fabrication projects in mechanical engineering.
- Company: Established mechanical engineering firm in Southampton with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on project success and profitability in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in mechanical engineering and strong estimating skills required.
- Other info: Join a busy, growing team and tackle exciting technical challenges.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 51000 £ per year.
I’m recruiting for a long-established mechanical engineering business in Southampton that delivers complex fabrication projects across petrochemical, oil & gas, and utility sectors. They’re busy, growing, and need a Lead Fabrication Estimator who genuinely knows their way around drawings, RFQs, structural steelwork, and fabricated assemblies.
If you enjoy the technical challenge of estimating bespoke fabrication projects — and want to join a company where your work directly influences bid success and project profitability — this is one to take seriously.
You’ll take ownership of multidiscipline fabrication estimates for a wide range of projects, including:
- Atmospheric tanks and bespoke welding/manufacturing work
- Working with suppliers/sub-contractors to obtain competitive, accurate quotations
You’ll work closely with the Sales & Estimating Manager and Operations Director, playing a key role in tender analysis, risk reviews, and helping to secure profitable, deliverable work.
This role is ideal for someone from a mechanical engineering, fabrication, or petrochemical/oil & gas background with strong numerical and technical estimating skills.
Experience estimating fabrication and pipework systems projects.
Salary £40k-£45k depending on experience.
25 days holiday +
Mechanical Commercial Estimator in Southampton employer: Red Chilli Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Red Chilli Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Commercial Estimator in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mechanical engineering and fabrication sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to meet potential employers and get insider info on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your estimating projects, especially those related to bespoke fabrication. This will give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Brush up on your technical knowledge and estimating skills. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses and boost your confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and helps us keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Commercial Estimator in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical Commercial Estimator role. Highlight your experience with drawings, RFQs, and any relevant projects you've worked on in the past. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about estimating bespoke fabrication projects and how your background in mechanical engineering or related fields makes you a perfect fit for us. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills in your application. Mention specific software or tools you’re familiar with that are relevant to estimating and fabrication. We love seeing candidates who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red Chilli Recruitment
✨Know Your Drawings Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with technical drawings and specifications relevant to the role. Brush up on your understanding of structural steelwork and fabricated assemblies, as you’ll likely be asked to discuss these in detail during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your estimating skills and knowledge of fabrication processes. Review common RFQs and think about how you would approach estimating for different projects. Being able to articulate your thought process will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since you’ll be working closely with suppliers and the Sales & Estimating Manager, be ready to discuss your experience in team settings. Share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated on past projects to secure competitive quotes or improve bid success.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
The role involves risk reviews and tender analysis, so prepare to talk about challenges you've faced in previous estimating roles. Highlight specific instances where your problem-solving skills led to successful project outcomes, showing that you can handle the complexities of this position.
