Estimator in Leeds, West Yorkshire

Job Description:

Estimator – West Yorkshire - Housebuilding

£50,000 – £60,000 + Package (Based on Experience)

We are currently recruiting for an Estimator to join an established housebuilder delivering traditional Homes, affordable housing developments and care homes across Yorkshire.

Based full-time in the company's West Yorkshire office, this is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Estimator to join a residential developer, playing a key role in the financial appraisal, cost planning and commercial viability of new housing developments.

The successful candidate will have previous experience within housebuilding, either directly for a residential developer or through a subcontractor operating within the residential construction sector. You will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive estimates, analysing construction costs and working closely with internal teams and the supply chain to ensure developments are commercially viable.

The Role

• Prepare detailed estimates, cost plans and budgets for traditional and affordable housing developments.
• Review architectural drawings, specifications, bills of quantities and tender documentation to establish accurate construction costs.
• Obtain, analyse and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure competitive pricing across all elements of construction.
• Develop and maintain accurate cost information covering materials, labour, plant and subcontract packages.
• Liaise with subcontractors and suppliers to negotiate pricing, clarify specifications and establish competitive commercial terms.
• Identify potential cost savings, alternative construction methods and value engineering opportunities without compromising quality or buildability.
• Assist with the preparation and review of development appraisals, budgets and cost forecasts.
• Work closely with the Commercial, Technical, Land and Construction teams to ensure estimates accurately reflect the requirements of each development.
• Assess construction drawings and specifications to identify discrepancies, risks and potential cost implications.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of material prices, subcontractor rates and market conditions across the Yorkshire residential construction sector.
• Support the preparation of tender submissions and contribute to the assessment of new development opportunities.
• Ensure estimates are accurate, commercially competitive and aligned with the company's construction methods and development objectives.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors, suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating procedures, cost databases and commercial reporting.

About You

• Previous experience as an Estimator within housebuilding or residential construction, either directly for a housebuilder or through a relevant subcontractor.
• Good understanding of traditional housebuilding methods, construction processes and associated build costs.
• Experience preparing estimates, cost plans and budgets for residential construction projects.
• Confident reviewing construction drawings, specifications and bills of quantities.
• Experience obtaining and analysing subcontractor quotations and negotiating competitive pricing.
• Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to identify cost efficiencies and value engineering opportunities.
• Excellent numerical, analytical and organisational skills, with a high level of attention to detail.
• Confident using Microsoft Excel and relevant estimating or construction cost-management software.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with Commercial, Technical and Construction teams.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Relevant qualification in Quantity Surveying, Estimating, Commercial Management or a construction-related discipline would be advantageous.
• Full UK driving licence, although the position itself is based full-time in the West Yorkshire office.

Salary & Package

• £50,000 – £60,000, based on experience.
• Car allowance.
• Performance-related bonus.
• Company pension scheme.

This is an excellent opportunity for an Estimator with housebuilding experience to join an established Yorkshire developer, contributing to the delivery of traditional and affordable housing while playing an important role in the commercial success of its developments.

If you have the relevant experience and are looking for your next opportunity within the residential construction sector, please get in touch for a confidential discussion.