Estimator

M J Church; Chippenham; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading civil engineering firm in Chippenham is seeking multiple Estimators for vital pre-construction roles. Candidates should have a strong background in civil engineering and earthworks, with a minimum of three years of estimating experience. Salaries range from £70,000 for Junior Estimators to £90,000 for Senior Estimators, depending on experience. Flexible working arrangements are supported. The ideal candidate will exhibit strong analytical and communication skills, and proficiency in estimating software.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years’ professional estimating experience within civil engineering and/or earthworks.
• Proven competence in first principles estimating and the preparation of Bills of Quantities (BoQs).
• In-depth knowledge of UK highways specifications, construction methodologies and cost drivers.

Responsibilities

• Prepare comprehensive estimates for labour, materials, plant and subcontract packages.
• Critically assess drawings, specifications and works information.
• Lead the estimating process from initial enquiry through to final bid submission.

Skills

Cost Modelling

Technical Review

Tender Management

Supply Chain Engagement

Documentation & Handover

Analytical Skills

Negotiation Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying or Construction Management

Tools

Estimating Software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

MJ Church is a leading Civil Engineering and Earthworks contractor operating across England. We deliver projects valued between £100,000 and £60 million for public and private sector clients across diverse industries. Alongside our core construction services, we have a growing waste management business expanding across the Southwest and Wales.

Joining MJ Church offers an exciting and challenging opportunity for driven individuals seeking professional and personal growth in a dynamic, results-focused environment.

The Role

In response to significant business growth and a robust project pipeline, we are seeking to appoint multiple Estimators. This critical Pre-Construction role demands precision, commercial acumen and a methodical approach to ensure our bids remain both competitive and accurate. You will oversee the full estimation lifecycle for civil engineering and bulk earthworks projects, analysing technical documentation, building first-principles cost models, and liaising with internal stakeholders, suppliers and subcontractors.

We offer genuine flexibility in working arrangements, provided you can attend our offices or project sites as required. We are supportive of contracted hours being worked flexibly over the week to support professional development and personal commitments.

Key responsibilities:

• Cost Modelling: Prepare comprehensive estimates for labour, materials, plant and subcontract packages.
• Technical Review: Critically assess drawings, specifications and works information.
• Tender Management: Lead the estimating process from initial enquiry through to final bid submission.
• Supply Chain Engagement: Establish and maintain strategic relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to secure optimal rates and delivery.
• Documentation & Handover: Produce clear, structured tender handover documentation and contribute to continuous process improvement.

Who You Are

You are a commercially astute construction professional with a strong background in estimating within civil engineering and earthworks. You enjoy working as part of a collaborative team and bring analytical rigour, attention to detail, and a proactive mindset to your work.

• Minimum of three years’ professional estimating experience within civil engineering and/or earthworks.
• Proven competence in first principles estimating and the preparation of Bills of Quantities (BoQs).
• Proficiency in industry-standard estimating software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• In-depth knowledge of UK highways specifications, construction methodologies and cost drivers.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience on large-scale or technically complex projects.
• Sound understanding of project management processes.
• Demonstrated leadership or mentoring of junior team members.
• Up-to-date awareness of health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Degree (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying or Construction Management.
• Salary: we are seeking multiple estimators with varied levels of experience; salary will depend on experience. From Junior Estimator at £70,000 to Senior Estimators up to £90,000 per annum