Assistant Estimator

OCS Recruitment Ltd; City Of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in civil engineering seeks an Assistant Estimator in West London. This role involves assisting in tenders, reviewing technical drawings, and engaging with suppliers. Candidates should have site experience or a relevant degree, strong analytical skills, and a desire to pursue a career in estimating. Competitive salary and career progression opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive starting salary (DOE)

Training and mentorship

Pension scheme and benefits package

Qualifications

• Site engineering experience with a civil engineering contractor or a related degree.
• Eagerness to learn and progress into estimating.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparation of competitive tenders and cost estimates.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and project requirements.
• Engage with suppliers and subcontractors for quotations.

Skills

Strong numerical and analytical skills

Ability to read and interpret construction drawings

Good IT skills (Excel essential)

Proactive approach and attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying / Commercial Management / Civil Engineering

Tools

Estimating software knowledge

Job description

Overview

Are you an ambitious Engineer with site experience or a Graduate with a commercial degree looking to build a career in estimating? We're seeking an Assistant Estimator to join our established West London team, supporting the pricing and tendering of a wide range of groundworks and civil engineering projects. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a technical eye and commercial mindset to step into a rewarding long-term estimating career.

What You'll Be Doing

• Assisting in the preparation of competitive tenders and cost estimates
• Reviewing engineering drawings, specifications, and project requirements
• Helping compile bills of quantities, schedules, and material take-offs
• Engaging with suppliers and subcontractors for quotations
• Supporting senior estimators in preparing tender submissions and bid documents
• Learning how to evaluate commercial risks and opportunities on civil/groundworks packages
• Building knowledge of cost databases, estimating software, and construction methodologies

What We\'re Looking For

• Either:
• Site engineering experience with a civil engineering contractor, OR
• A degree in Quantity Surveying / Commercial Management / Civil Engineering
• Strong numerical and analytical skills
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Good IT skills (Excel essential; estimating software knowledge a bonus)
• Eagerness to learn and progress into a career in estimating
• A proactive approach, attention to detail, and strong communication skills

What\'s in It for You?

• Competitive starting salary (DOE) with clear progression opportunities
• Training and mentorship from experienced estimators and commercial managers
• Exposure to a variety of civil engineering and groundworks projects across London
• Pension scheme and benefits package
• A long-term career pathway into Estimator / Senior Estimator roles