Design & Build Estimator – Education Frameworks in Solihull

Design & Build Estimator – Education Frameworks
Location: West Midlands (office-based with hybrid options)
Type: Permanent, full-time
Salary: £55,000 – £75,000 + package

The company
Our client is a well-established and respected regional building contractor based in the West Midlands. They deliver new build, refurbishment and maintenance projects across education, healthcare, leisure, commercial and industrial sectors. Education is their core market, and they work with local authorities and academy trusts. They have a hands-on leadership team, a strong record of repeat business and a loyal supply chain.

The role
Following continued framework success, our client is looking for an experienced Design & Build Estimator to lead on school projects procured through a range of major public sector frameworks. Schemes are typically £5–£8 million, with some up to £10 million. You’ll take projects from early enquiry through to a competitive, well-qualified tender.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading the estimating process on D&B education schemes, mainly via framework mini-competitions and direct awards
• Preparing cost plans and tender submissions from early-stage and developing design information
• Producing and pricing quantities, and building up rates and preliminaries
• Running supply chain enquiries, analysing returns and selecting the strongest packages
• Working with the design team to develop value-engineered solutions within client budgets
• Identifying and pricing risk, and preparing clarifications, assumptions and exclusions
• Contributing to bid strategy and handing over tenders to the delivery team
• Building and maintaining strong subcontractor and supplier relationships

What we’re looking for

• Proven estimating experience with a regional or Tier 1 main contractor
• Strong Design & Build experience, pricing from limited or emerging design
• Education sector experience (schools especially) is highly desirable
• Experience pricing through public sector frameworks
• Confident estimating projects in the £5–£10 million range
• Commercially sharp, with good attention to detail and strong numerical skills
• Proficient with estimating software and Excel
• Degree or equivalent in QS, Construction or a related discipline (preferred, not essential)

What’s on offer

• £55,000 – £75,000 depending on experience
• Plus Package
• A strong, framework-led pipeline of education work
• A stable, respected contractor with a supportive leadership team