Senior Estimator in Thornwood Common, Essex

About the Company

Our client is an established design and build main contractor based in Epping, Essex. The business manily delivers high-end residential, commercial, education and industrial schemes amongst others.

The Role

This is a combined estimating and pre-construction role. You will take projects from first enquiry through to a secured contract and a smooth handover to the delivery team. That means pricing tenders, shaping early-stage cost and procurement advice, and working with clients and designers to develop schemes that are buildable and on budget. You will work closely with directors, the design team, the commercial team and the supply chain, with real influence on which projects the business pursues and wins.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating and tendering

Prepare detailed estimates and tender submissions for design and build, fit-out, refurbishment and new-build projects

Review drawings, specifications and tender documents, carrying out quantity take-offs and building up accurate cost plans

Price bespoke joinery and furniture packages, working with in-house and external specialists

Source, issue and chase subcontractor and supplier enquiries, then analyse and compare returns to secure competitive pricing

Identify risks, assumptions, exclusions and clarifications and make sure they are clearly set out in submissions

Pre-construction

Provide early-stage budgets, feasibility pricing and cost plans to clients and the design team

Support design development, advising on buildability, programme, materials and cost implications

Lead value engineering exercises and propose cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality

Develop procurement strategies and packages, including early engagement of key subcontractors

Prepare pre-construction programmes and outline construction methodology to support tenders

Manage client and design team communication through the pre-construction stage, including cost reporting and updates

Attend client meetings, design team meetings and tender interviews, presenting pricing and approach where required

Assist with contract negotiation, and the review of contract terms and risk

Hand over successful projects to the delivery team with a clear cost breakdown, procurement status and risk register

General

Maintain and update cost databases, rates and benchmarking data

Mentor and support junior estimators or assistants where applicable

Skills and Experience

Essential

Proven experience as an Estimator or Senior Estimator with a main contractor, fit-out contractor or design and build contractor

Hands-on pre-construction experience, including cost planning, feasibility pricing and value engineering

Strong track record pricing fit-out, refurbishment or interior projects, ideally including high-end residential or commercial work

Ability to read and interpret architectural and technical drawings and specifications

Sound knowledge of construction methods, materials, programme and procurement routes

Strong commercial awareness and experience managing subcontractor and supplier pricing

Proficiency in estimating and take-off software, plus Microsoft Excel

Excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work to tight tender deadlines