Construction Estimator

Apple Technical Recruitment (UK); Cambridge; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Private healthcare

Enhanced pension contribution

Job summary

Apple Technical Recruitment is seeking a Construction Estimator for a leading Tier 1 main contractor in Cambridge. You will join the pre-construction team, delivering element-by-element cost plans and first-principle estimates on major schemes up to £150m, while working with BIM models to produce detailed cost breakdowns.

The role requires 3–5 years in estimating within a main contractor environment, familiarity with Conquest or similar software, and knowledge of procurement routes such as

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in an Estimating role within a main contractor environment.
• Exposure to pricing or cost planning on construction projects.
• Familiarity with estimating software (Conquest or similar).
• Understanding of modern procurement routes (Two-Stage, D&B, JCT/NEC).
• Strong numerical aptitude and commercial awareness.

Responsibilities

• Work as part of the Tier 1 pre-construction team delivering accurate element-by-element cost plans and first-principle estimates on major schemes up to £150m.
• Quantify and take off drawings, schedules, and BIM models to construct cost breakdown structures.
• Issue, analyse, and scope subcontractor and supplier packages to ensure coverage and competitive pricing.
• Assist Senior Estimators during mid-tender reviews, risk meetings, and value engineering exercises.
• Manage tender documentation, pricing databases, and handovers to commercial and project delivery teams.

Job description

Vacancy Summary

Job Title: Construction Estimator

Job Type: Permanent

Job Ref: #1432

Location: Cambridge

Salary: c£50,000-£60,000 basic plus excellent benefits package including (car allowance, enhanced employer pension contribution over 5%, private healthcare, performance bonus)

Company & Project:

A leading Tier 1 main contractor with a track record in the Cambridge region is seeking a Construction Estimator to join their established pre-construction team.

Working within a structured, multi-disciplinary bid team on high-profile regional projects, the business has secured key framework positions and a robust pipeline across Commercial, Life Sciences, Higher Education, Healthcare, and Mixed-Use sectors.

This role will support the pricing and cost planning of major capital schemes ranging in value from £30m to £150m+, working alongside an experienced Senior Estimator who would be an excellent mentor.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Work as an integral part of the Tier 1 pre-construction team, delivering accurate element-by-element cost plans and first-principle estimates on major schemes up to £150m.
• Quantify and take off drawings, schedules, and digital models (BIM) to construct comprehensive cost breakdown structures.
• Issue, analyse, and scope subcontractor and specialist supplier packages to ensure compliance, full scope coverage, and competitive pricing.
• Assist Senior Estimators during mid-tender reviews, client risk meetings, and value engineering exercises.
• Manage tender documentation, maintain pricing databases, and support handover meetings to the commercial and project delivery teams.

Desirable Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in an Estimating role within a main contractor environment.
• Exposure to pricing or measuring packages on construction projects.
• Familiarity with industry-standard estimating software (Conquest or similar platforms).
• Understanding of modern procurement routes (Two-Stage, D&B, JCT/NEC forms of contract).
• Previous Roles: Estimator OR Assistant Estimator OR Intermediate Estimator.

Qualifications & Skills:

• HND/HNC or Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or comparable qualification.
• Strong numerical aptitude, commercial awareness, and proficient Excel / Estimating software skills.

Application Process:

If you would like more information on this Construction Estimator position, please send your current CV through to Jess Quinn for review. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 48 hours.

Services advertised by Apple Technical Recruitment are those of an Employment Agency/Business.