Construction Estimating Trainee – Build Your Career

Wates Group; Leeds; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Car allowance

Health & wellness programme

26 days holiday + bank holidays

Birthday Day off

Job summary

Wates Group in Leeds is seeking an Estimating Management Trainee to develop commercial and technical skills for construction projects from the earliest stages. You will learn to prepare cost plans, estimates and budgets to shape project finance and support winning bids.

You will work with experienced estimators, commercial teams, and supply chain partners, reviewing drawings and tender docs, analysing requirements and delivering competitive estimates while developing your professional network.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree expected by Sep 2027, 2:2 or above, relevant subject.
• Full UK driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of cost plans, budgets and detailed estimates for tender submissions.
• Review drawings, specifications and tender docs to identify scope and cost implications.
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotes to ensure competitive costs.
• Contribute to customer-focused bid responses and work-winning strategies.
• Coordinate tender documentation and electronic submissions within governance and deadlines.
• Collaborate with Commercial, Pre-Construction, Operations and Supply Chain teams.
• Research market trends, material costs and labour rates to inform estimating decisions.
• Analyze how materials and construction methods affect project costs and propose cost-effective solutions.
• Build relationships with colleagues, customers and supply chain partners.

Skills

Cost estimation

Tender submissions

Budgeting

Subcontractor evaluation

Market research

Collaboration across teams

Construction cost knowledge

Job description

Wates Group in Leeds is seeking an Estimating Management Trainee to develop commercial and technical skills for construction projects from the earliest stages. You will learn to prepare cost plans, estimates and budgets to shape project finance and support winning bids.

You will work with experienced estimators, commercial teams, and supply chain partners, reviewing drawings and tender docs, analysing requirements and delivering competitive estimates while developing your professional network.