At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare detailed cost estimates and feasibility studies for residential developments.
- Company: Join a major residential developer with a strong presence in the South East.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, private healthcare, flexible working, and retail discounts.
- Why this job: Shape projects from the start in a high-performing, stable business with career progression.
- Qualifications: Experience in estimating within housebuilding and strong knowledge of construction costs required.
- Other info: Perfect for those seeking a long-term career with real influence on land strategy.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 105000 £ per year.
Job Description
Estimator – Watford – Circa £75,000 + Package
Walker & Sloan are currently recruiting for an experienced Estimator on behalf of a major residential developer with a strong presence across the South East. Based out of their Watford office, this role will play a pivotal part in land acquisition and early-stage project appraisals.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys shaping projects from the outset and wants to work in a high-performing, stable business that delivers at scale.
The Role:
You'll be responsible for the preparation and presentation of detailed cost estimates and feasibility studies across a variety of residential developments, supporting the land and planning teams in making sound investment decisions. You'll also collaborate with internal departments to ensure that cost projections align with business targets and construction realities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare prime cost estimates for land appraisals
- Monitor cost movements throughout the planning process
- Collaborate with design, technical and commercial teams on feasibility reviews
- Calculate costs for house types, siteworks, remediation and external services
- Maintain and update standard pricing databases and quantity schedules
- Present cost information clearly to senior leadership
About You:
- Experience in a similar estimating role within the housebuilding sector
- Strong working knowledge of residential construction costs
- Familiar with COINS or similar estimating software
- Detail-oriented with strong analytical and presentation skills
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines and work independently
What You’ll Get:
- Salary circa £75,000 + full package
- Private healthcare, life assurance, pension
- Retail discounts, share plans, and tailored benefits
- Career progression within a highly respected national housebuilder
- Flexible working and a supportive team environment
Perfect for an experienced Estimator looking for a long-term career move where you can have a real influence on land strategy and cost planning.
Estimator employer: Walker & Sloan Ltd | Certified B Corp
Contact Detail:
Walker & Sloan Ltd | Certified B Corp Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the residential construction industry. Attend local events or join online forums where estimators and developers gather to share insights. This can help you learn about job openings and get referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with COINS or similar estimating software if you haven't already. Many employers, including us at StudySmarter, value candidates who are proficient in these tools, as they streamline the estimating process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with cost estimation in detail during interviews. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed budgets and collaborated with teams on previous projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company you're applying to thoroughly. Understand their recent projects and business goals, so you can tailor your discussions to show how your skills align with their needs and contribute to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in estimating within the housebuilding sector. Emphasise your familiarity with residential construction costs and any relevant software like COINS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to prepare detailed cost estimates and collaborate with various teams.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Provide examples in your application that showcase your analytical skills and attention to detail. This could include past projects where you successfully managed multiple deadlines or presented cost information to senior leadership.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which is crucial for an Estimator role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Walker & Sloan Ltd | Certified B Corp
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate a strong grasp of residential construction costs. Brush up on your knowledge of cost estimation techniques and be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Highlight your detail-oriented nature and analytical skills during the interview. Be ready to explain how you've used these skills in previous roles to make sound investment decisions or improve cost projections.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Software
Since familiarity with COINS or similar estimating software is important, ensure you can discuss your experience with these tools. If you haven't used COINS specifically, be prepared to talk about other software you've worked with and how it relates.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
This role involves working closely with various teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with design, technical, and commercial teams in the past, and be ready to discuss how you handle differing opinions and deadlines.