At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare competitive tenders for social housing refurbishment and maintenance projects.
- Company: Leading contractor in social housing with a strong regional presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, pension, healthcare, and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real difference in community projects.
- Qualifications: 5-7 years estimating experience in construction, ideally in social housing.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression in a dynamic environment.
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 Estimator in Kent employer: RHL Recruitment
Contact Detail:
RHL Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Estimator in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. The more people you know in the construction sector, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your estimating projects, including detailed cost estimates and successful bids. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of social housing refurbishment. Be ready to discuss your experience with estimating software and how you've tackled challenges in past projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We regularly update our job listings, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Project 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 match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical and commercial understanding of building processes. Mention any estimating software you’re proficient in, like Causeway or Conquest, as this will definitely catch our eye!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, be clear and concise about why you’re the perfect fit for the role. We appreciate straightforward communication, so get to the point while still showing your enthusiasm for the position.
Apply Through Our Website: Finally, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
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 preparing accurate cost estimates. Brush up on your knowledge of bills of quantities and cost plans. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've successfully managed estimating activities and how you ensured compliance with client expectations.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Familiarity with estimating software is crucial for this role. Make sure you can talk confidently about your experience with tools like Causeway or Conquest. If possible, prepare examples of how you've used these systems to streamline your estimating process or improve accuracy in your previous roles.
✨Understand the Market
Research the current trends in social housing refurbishment and planned maintenance. Being able to discuss recent projects or changes in regulations will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the industry. This insight can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Mentorship Matters
Since the role involves mentoring junior estimators, be prepared to share your approach to leadership. Think of examples where you've supported team members in their development. Highlighting your ability to guide others will demonstrate your commitment to teamwork and growth within the company.