Estimator

Bennett and Game Recruitment LTD; Bedford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-known recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Estimator for a reputable contractor in Bedford. The successful candidate will prepare competitive tender submissions, manage enquiries, and produce accurate cost plans for construction projects. With a strong focus on refurbishment and groundwork, the role offers a salary between £50,000 and £65,000, alongside benefits such as mileage allowance, holidays, and retirement plans. This position promises long-term career progression and requires a UK driving licence.

Benefits

Mileage allowance

21 days holiday + Bank Holidays

Company pension scheme

Long-term career progression opportunities

Stable and supportive working environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience as an Estimator within the construction sector.
• Strong general construction knowledge – refurbishments, civils, groundworks & design & build.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documents.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates, BOQs, and tender submissions.
• Review drawings, specifications, and project information.
• Manage subcontract enquiries and evaluate returns.

Skills

Numerical skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Position: Estimator
Location: Bedford (Office-based with regional site visits)
Salary: £50,000 - £65,000 (DOE)

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced Estimator to join a reputable regional contractor with a long-standing history of delivering high-quality refurbishment, design & build, civils, and groundwork projects. With continued growth and a strong pipeline of work, the business is now seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Estimator with at least 5 years' experience to support tendering across a diverse project portfolio.

Estimator - Job Overview

The successful Estimator will take responsibility for preparing competitive tender submissions, managing enquiries, and producing accurate cost plans for a wide range of construction projects. This office-based role (with occasional site travel) requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work autonomously within a busy estimating department.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates, BOQs, and tender submissions
• Review drawings, specifications, and project information
• Issue and manage subcontract enquiries and evaluate returns
• Prepare take-offs and measure quantities accurately
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering options
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors
• Contribute to handover meetings, supporting project teams with cost breakdowns
• Attend site visits to assess project scope as required
• Assist with procurement and ensure tender deadlines are metMaintain accurate tender documentation and commercial records

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years' experience as an Estimator within the construction sector
• Strong general construction knowledge – refurbishments, civils, groundworks & design & build
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documents
• Excellent numerical, analytical, and negotiation skills
• Competent with IT systems including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel)
• Strong communication and organisation skills
• Full UK driving licence
• Able to visit regional project sites as required
• Reliable, professional, and seeking a long-term position

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £50,000 - £65,000 (DOE)
• Mileage allowance
• 21 days holiday + Bank Holidays
• Company pension scheme
• Long-term career progression opportunities
• Stable and supportive working environment