At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare accurate cost estimates for exciting fit-out projects in commercial, retail, and leisure sectors.
- Company: Join a dynamic and ambitious fit-out contractor with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with excellent growth potential and exciting project pipeline.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-value projects while collaborating with talented teams.
- Qualifications: Experience as an Estimator in construction or fit-out, with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Due to continued growth, we are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Estimator to join our clients Pre-Construction team based in Bolton. Working closely with the Head of Pre-Construction, the successful candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for commercial, retail, and leisure fit-out projects ranging from £500,000 to £3 million in value. This role offers an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic and ambitious business with a strong pipeline of work and a reputation for delivering high-quality fit-out projects across the UK.
Estimating and Cost Planning
- Review tender documentation, drawings, specifications, and employer requirements.
- Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for fit-out and refurbishment projects.
- Undertake quantity take-offs and pricing exercises from drawings and specifications.
- Analyse project risks and opportunities to support competitive tender submissions.
- Develop cost plans and budgets throughout the pre-construction process.
- Prepare tender adjudication documents and present findings to senior management.
Supply Chain Management
- Obtain and evaluate quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with the supply chain to ensure competitive pricing and reliable delivery.
- Assess subcontractor quotations for completeness and compliance with project requirements.
- Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative construction solutions.
Tender Management
- Coordinate tender enquiries and manage bid deadlines.
- Ensure all tender returns are submitted accurately and within required timescales.
- Attend tender review and adjudication meetings.
- Assist in the preparation of presentations and commercial submissions for clients.
Pre-Construction Support
- Work collaboratively with design, operations, and commercial teams during bid and pre-construction stages.
- Support the development of project programmes and procurement strategies.
- Assist with contract negotiations where required.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating systems and procedures.
Market Intelligence
- Monitor market conditions, labour trends, material pricing, and supply chain developments.
- Maintain an up-to-date database of costs, suppliers, and subcontractors.
- Provide commercial insight to support business development opportunities.
Skills and Experience
- Previous experience as an Estimator within the construction or fit-out sector.
- Proven experience pricing commercial fit-out, retail, or leisure projects.
- Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and procurement routes.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and tender documentation.
- Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
- Strong commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and estimating software packages.
- Ability to manage multiple tenders simultaneously and work to tight deadlines.
Desirable
- Experience pricing projects between £500k and £3m.
- Relevant construction qualification (HNC, HND, Degree, or equivalent).
- Knowledge of JCT forms of contract.
- Experience within a fast-paced fit-out contractor environment.
Personal Attributes
- Self-motivated and highly organised.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Commercially focused with a proactive approach.
- Strong team player who can collaborate effectively across departments.
- Driven to contribute to the growth and success of the business.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work on exciting commercial, retail, and leisure fit-out projects.
- Career progression within a growing and ambitious business.
- Supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Ongoing professional development opportunities.
If you are an experienced Estimator looking to join a thriving fit-out contractor with a strong reputation and ambitious growth plans, we would like to hear from you.
Estimator employer: Stratus Search & Recruitment
Join a dynamic and ambitious fit-out contractor in Bolton, where your expertise as an Estimator will be valued and rewarded. With a competitive salary, a supportive work culture, and ample opportunities for career progression, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality projects while collaborating with a talented team. This is not just a job; it's a chance to grow within a thriving business that prioritises professional development and fosters strong relationships across all levels.
Contact Details:
Stratus Search & Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Stratus Search & Recruitment, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Estimator at Stratus Search & Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stratus Search & Recruitment
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
