Estimator

Kenna Recruitment Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction recruitment firm is seeking an Estimator to support their Senior Estimator amid growing project demands. The role includes preparing detailed cost estimates for various sectors and requires 3-5 years of relevant estimating experience. Candidates should have strong negotiation skills and proficiency in commercial estimating software like CostX. The ideal applicant should be able to analyze specifications and effectively liaise with both internal teams and suppliers. This opportunity offers a chance to grow with a reputable contractor-focused business in the UK.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years’ experience in construction estimating, preferable on contractor side.
• Proficient with commercial estimating software.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods and labour rates.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cost estimates for projects across various sectors.
• Analyze drawings and specifications to quantify work.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure cost control and constructability.

Skills

Construction estimating

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Tools

CostX

BuildSmart

Job description

Our Client are a well known specialist main contractor focusing on key London refurbishment and fit out projects, they typically work on schemes up to about £10million. They are now hiring an Estimator to support their Senior Estimator due to an influx of tenders and to support their continued growth into 2026. As a business they continually turnover around £100million and are looking to maintain this level of business over the next year. They key for them is delivering the right volume of work, at the highest standard to ensure repeat and future work.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates (preliminary, conceptual, and definitive) for projects across multiple sectors (residential, heritage, public buildings, etc.).
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and tender documentation to quantify work.
• Perform take-offs for materials, labour, plant, and sub-contractor packages.
• Obtain, evaluate, and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Identify risks, opportunities, and cost-saving measures. Develop value engineering proposals.
• Build and maintain estimating databases and cost libraries.
• Prepare bid documentation, including pricing breakdowns, risk analysis, assumptions, and exclusions.
• Collaborate with the commercial team to develop win strategies, bid schedules, and pricing models.
• Liaise with design, planning, and operations teams to ensure constructability and cost control.
• Provide post-award support : monitor actual vs estimated costs, advise on variations, assist in change management.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating processes, tools, and methods.

Person Specification / Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in construction estimating (contractor side is preferred).
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and labour rates.
• Proven experience with cost take-off, measurement, and quantity surveying techniques.
• Proficiency in commercial estimating software (e.g., CostX, BuildSmart, etc.).
• Good understanding of contract types (JCT, NEC, etc.) and procurement routes.
• Strong analytical, numerical and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication skills – able to liaise with both internal teams and external suppliers / sub-contractors.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.