Estimator

Paxton Personnel Ltd; Beauly; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career progression

Professional environment

Support from experienced team

Job summary

Paxton Personnel Ltd is seeking an Estimator to join a well-established Highlands construction contractor. You will prepare accurate tenders, review project docs, and price packages from labour to subcontractors, collaborating closely with planning and production teams to maximise value.

Ideally you have estimating experience in construction, a related degree, and strong Excel and estimating software skills. A proactive, detail-focused approach is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Previous estimating experience in construction.
• Good understanding of construction processes and costs.
• Knowledge of Bills of Quantities and take-offs.
• Experience reviewing drawings, specs and tender docs.

Responsibilities

• Review tender documents, drawings and specs to understand project requirements.
• Prepare Bills of Quantities and carry out quantity take-offs.
• Prepare subcontractor work packages and issue enquiries.
• Obtain competitive quotations from suppliers and assess value.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates covering labour, plant, materials and subcontractor costs.
• Develop tender programmes and construction methodologies with planning/production teams.
• Assist with tender submissions and internal tender reviews.
• Attend site visits and client/design team discussions as required.

Skills

Numerical skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Excel

Estimating software

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Education

Construction management / QS / civil eng degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Estimating software

Job description

The Opportunity

We are currently recruiting for an Estimator to join a well-established and successful construction contractor operating across the Highlands and surrounding areas.

This is an excellent opportunity for an organised and commercially minded individual to join a busy estimating team, supporting the preparation of accurate and competitive tenders for a variety of construction projects.

Working closely with the commercial, planning and production teams, you will play an important role in the tendering process, from reviewing project documentation and preparing cost estimates through to subcontractor pricing and tender submissions.

The role would suit someone with previous estimating experience or a construction background who is looking to further develop their skills within a supportive and experienced team.

The Role

As Estimator, you will assist in preparing competitive and accurate tenders, ensuring all submissions meet company procedures, client requirements and project specifications.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Reviewing tender documentation, drawings and specifications to understand project requirements.

• Preparing Bills of Quantities and carrying out accurate quantity take-offs.

• Preparing subcontractor work packages and issuing enquiries to prospective subcontractors.

• Identifying material requirements and obtaining competitive quotations from suppliers.

• Reviewing and analysing subcontractor quotations to ensure best value and suitability.

• Preparing detailed cost estimates covering labour, plant, materials and subcontractor costs using estimating software.

• Working closely with planning and production teams to develop tender programmes and construction methodologies.

• Assessing labour and resource requirements in line with proposed project programmes.

• Assisting with the preparation of tender summaries, preliminaries and supporting documentation.

• Identifying potential cost savings, risks and value engineering opportunities.

• Supporting the preparation of tender submissions, including exclusions, provisional sums and subcontractor terms.

• Participating in internal tender review meetings.

• Attending site visits, client meetings and design team discussions where required.

• Ensuring all estimating activities are completed in accordance with company procedures and deadlines.

About You

We are looking for someone who is organised, analytical and has a good understanding of construction processes and costs.

Ideally, you will have:

• Previous experience in an estimating role within the construction industry.

• A qualification in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering or a related discipline would be advantageous.

• A good understanding of construction methods, materials, labour and plant costs.

• Experience reviewing drawings, specifications and tender documentation.

• Knowledge of Bills of Quantities and quantity take-offs.

• Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and estimating software.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work with subcontractors, suppliers and internal teams.

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage competing deadlines.

• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn and develop.

Candidates with a construction or commercial background who are looking to progress into estimating will also be considered.

What's on Offer?

• Opportunity to join an established and respected construction contractor.

• Exposure to a varied range of construction projects.

• Support and development from an experienced commercial and estimating team.

• Opportunities for career progression.

• Competitive salary and benefits package, depending on experience.

• A supportive and professional working environment.