At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare accurate tenders for social housing projects and manage estimating activities.
- Company: Leading contractor in social housing refurbishment with a strong regional presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, pension, healthcare, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on community-focused projects.
- Qualifications: 5-7 years estimating experience in construction and relevant qualifications.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression in a growing business.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: NW Kent
Salary: Competitive c£50-65k + benefits (depending on experience)
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Our client is a leading main contractor specialising in social housing refurbishment, planned maintenance, and regeneration projects. With a strong presence across the southern region, they deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions for local authorities, housing associations, and framework partners.
The Senior Estimator will play a key role within the team, preparing accurate and competitive tenders for social housing refurbishment and maintenance projects. Working from the office, you will manage all estimating activities across the Southern region, ensuring bids are compliant, commercially viable, and aligned with client expectations.
- Lead the preparation and submission of detailed cost estimates for social housing refurbishment, planned maintenance, and decarbonisation projects.
- Analyse tender documentation, drawings, and specifications to assess project requirements and risks.
- Produce accurate bills of quantities, cost plans, and value engineering options.
- Liaise with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive quotations.
- Review tender submissions to ensure accuracy, compliance, and alignment with company policies.
- Mentor and support junior estimators within the team.
Minimum 5–7 years’ estimating experience within the construction industry, ideally focused on social housing refurbishment, planned maintenance, or fit-out projects.
Excellent technical and commercial understanding of building refurbishment processes, materials, and trades.
Proficient in estimating software (e.g. Causeway, Conquest, Excel-based systems).
Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the southern region when required.
Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
Experience in Decent Homes, Planned Works, External Wall Insulation, or Net Zero retrofit programmes.
Competitive salary and car allowance.
Company pension and healthcare benefits.
Hybrid working (Swanley office / site / home).
Career progression within a growing regional business.
Project Cost Estimator in Kent employer: RHL Recruitment
Contact Detail:
RHL Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Cost Estimator in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the construction industry, especially those who have experience with social housing projects. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your game face on for interviews! Research the company and their recent projects, especially in social housing refurbishment. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in what they do and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Cost Estimator in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Estimator role. Highlight your experience in social housing refurbishment and any relevant projects you've worked on. 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 the perfect fit for our team. Mention specific experiences that relate to the job description, especially your estimating experience and technical knowledge.
Showcase Your Software Skills: Since proficiency in estimating software is key, make sure to mention your experience with tools like Causeway or Conquest. We love seeing candidates who are tech-savvy and 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 applications and ensures you get all the latest updates about your application status. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at RHL Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in cost estimation. Brush up on your knowledge of bills of quantities and cost plans. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you successfully managed costs and how you approached value engineering options.
✨Understand the Client's Needs
Familiarise yourself with the types of projects the company undertakes, especially in social housing refurbishment and planned maintenance. Show that you understand their client base and can align your estimating strategies with their expectations.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Since proficiency in estimating software is crucial, be prepared to talk about your experience with tools like Causeway or Conquest. If possible, bring examples of how you've used these systems to improve accuracy and efficiency in your previous roles.
✨Mentorship Matters
Highlight any experience you have in mentoring junior estimators. This role involves supporting others, so share specific instances where you've guided team members or improved their skills, demonstrating your leadership potential.