Estimator

Novax Recruitment Ltd; Bristol; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Novax Recruitment Ltd is seeking an Estimator for structural steelwork in Bristol. You will prepare detailed tender submissions, review drawings, and quantify steelwork requirements to secure profitable projects across commercial, industrial and infrastructure sectors.

The role requires strong analytical and numerical skills, experience with cost calculations, and effective liaison with clients and suppliers. You will manage multiple tenders to meet deadlines in a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Experience as estimator in structural steelwork or similar.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specs.
• Proven cost calculation and take-off experience.
• Commercially aware with strong analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and tender submissions for steelwork projects.
• Review drawings, specs and contract docs for tender accuracy.
• Undertake material take-offs and quantify steelwork requirements.
• Source quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Assess labour, fabrication, erection, transport costs.
• Identify commercial risks and opportunities in tender enquiries.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, and engineers to confirm needs.
• Develop value engineering to improve competitiveness.
• Maintain records of estimates, quotations, and tenders.
• Assist with project handovers after award.
• Monitor market pricing trends in steelwork.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Numerical skills

Communication

Attention to detail

Tools

Microsoft Office

Estimating software

Job description

Estimator - Structural Steelwork

Location: Bristol, UK

Salary: Competitive + Benefits

The Opportunity

An established structural steelwork contractor is seeking an experienced Estimator to join its commercial team in Bristol. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional with a strong background in structural steelwork to play a key role in securing a diverse range of projects across the commercial, industrial, infrastructure, and construction sectors.

The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive tenders, analysing project specifications, and supporting the business in winning profitable work. You will work closely with clients, engineers, suppliers, and internal departments throughout the tendering process.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and tender submissions for structural steelwork projects.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and contract documentation.
• Undertake material take-offs and quantify steelwork requirements.
• Source and evaluate quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Assess labour, fabrication, erection, transport, and associated project costs.
• Identify commercial risks and opportunities within tender enquiries.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, architects, and engineers to clarify project requirements.
• Attend pre-tender and post-tender meetings where required.
• Develop value engineering solutions to improve competitiveness and project viability.
• Maintain accurate records of estimates, quotations, and tender submissions.
• Assist with project handovers to operational teams following successful contract awards.
• Monitor market conditions and pricing trends within the steelwork and construction sectors.

Requirements

• Previous experience as an Estimator within the structural steelwork industry.
• Strong understanding of structural steel fabrication and erection processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Experience producing accurate material take-offs and cost calculations.
• Commercially aware with strong analytical and numerical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational abilities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build relationships with clients and suppliers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and estimating software.
• Ability to manage multiple tenders and work effectively to deadlines.

Desirable

• Experience estimating a variety of structural steelwork projects across different sectors.
• Knowledge of current UK steelwork and construction standards.
• Experience using specialist estimating or drawing software.
• Understanding of project management and construction delivery processes.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to work with a well-established and respected structural steelwork contractor.
• Diverse and technically interesting project portfolio.
• Long-term career progression opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Stable pipeline of work and continued business growth.