Estimating Manager

1st Step Solutions Ltd; Grays; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company car

Pension scheme

Private health care

Career progression

Performance bonus

Job summary

1st Step Solutions Ltd. is seeking an experienced Estimating Manager for a senior role based in Grays, Essex.

The successful candidate will lead and develop the estimating function, oversee the full tendering process and drive profitable growth across mechanical and electrical projects. The role requires strong leadership, extensive bid management, and a track record of delivering high-value tenders in commercial, residential or industrial sectors.

Qualifications

• Senior estimating experience in MEP/building services.
• Strong technical knowledge of mechanical & electrical systems.
• Proven track record in winning commercial, residential, or industrial bids.
• Excellent commercial awareness and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and develop the estimating team.
• Set estimating strategy aligned with growth objectives.
• Oversee all MEP tenders from enquiry to submission.
• Review specifications, drawings and contract documents.
• Ensure accurate take-offs and pricing of labour, plant and materials.
• Develop competitive yet commercially sound bid strategies.

Skills

Estimating leadership

Team management

Bid/tendering

Strong Excel

Communication

Education

HNC/HND or degree in Building Services/Engineering/Quantity Surveying

Tools

Estimating software

Advanced Excel

Job description

1st Step Solutions are supporting a building services engineering company who have an opportunity for an Estimating Manager based in Grays, Essex.

Role Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced Estimating Manager to lead and develop their estimating function. This senior role will be responsible for managing the full tendering process, building a high-performing estimating team, and driving profitable growth across mechanical and electrical projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating team
• Set estimating strategy aligned with company growth objectives
• Implement best practice processes and systems
• Work closely with senior management on pipeline planning
• Oversee all MEP tenders from enquiry through to submission
• Review specifications, drawings, and contract documents
• Ensure accurate take-offs and pricing of labour, plant, and materials
• Develop competitive yet commercially sound bid strategies
• Manage risk and opportunity assessments on all bids
• Attend pre-tender meetings and client interviews
• Build strong relationships with clients, consultants, and supply chain
• Negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors to secure best value
• Support commercial team during contract award and handover
• Assist in value engineering and cost-saving initiatives
• Maintain and improve estimating software and databases
• Track tender success rates and provide performance reports
• Maintain cost data and benchmarking systems

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in a senior estimating role within MEP / building services
• Strong technical knowledge of mechanical & electrical systems
• Track record of winning projects in commercial, residential, or industrial sectors
• Excellent commercial awareness
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines
• Advanced Excel and estimating software experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desirable

• HNC/HND or degree in Building Services, Engineering, or Quantity Surveying
• Professional membership (CIBSE, RICS, etc.)
• Experience implementing estimating systems and procedures
• Knowledge of NEC & JCT contracts

Package

• Competitive salary
• Performance-related bonus
• Company car / allowance
• Pension scheme
• Career progression opportunities
• Private health care