Estimator

First Recruitment Group; Greater Manchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist contractor in construction is seeking an Estimator to join their commercial team in Greater Manchester. The successful candidate will be responsible for accurate pricing of projects, collaborating with technical teams, and improving internal estimating systems. Applicants should have at least 5 years of experience, preferably in healthcare or cleanroom sectors.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience within a construction or HVAC contracting environment.
• Knowledge of cleanroom, laboratory, life sciences, or healthcare projects is advantageous.
• Proven ability to interpret complex project documentation and formulate clear cost strategies.

Responsibilities

• Review project scope, specifications, and site survey information to define estimating requirements.
• Develop and manage bid programmes, ensuring timely preparation and submission of tenders.
• Coordinate with design and estimating teams to produce accurate and competitive pricing.

Skills

Commercial awareness

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Education

HND/HNC, BEng or equivalent in relevant discipline

Tools

MS Office

Estimating software

Job description

Overview

Are you an Estimator on the lookout for a new opportunity? A specialist contractor delivering complex projects within the healthcare, laboratory, life sciences, and cleanroom sectors is seeking an Estimator to join their commercial team at Trafford Park on a permanent staff basis.

The successful Estimator will take responsibility for the accurate pricing of design and build and turnkey projects at enquiry stage, support procurement during project execution, and contribute to the development of our supply chain. The Estimator will work closely with senior stakeholders and technical teams, bringing commercial insight and process improvement to the pre-construction phase of our projects.

Responsibilities

• Review project scope, specifications, and site survey information to define estimating requirements.
• Develop and manage bid programmes, ensuring timely preparation and submission of tenders.
• Analyse tender documentation, including contract terms and technical details.
• Prepare and issue enquiries for materials, equipment, and subcontracted services.
• Coordinate with design and estimating teams to produce accurate and competitive pricing.
• Lead the compilation of all supporting documentation for tender submissions.
• Prepare cost sheets, pricing summaries, and adjudication reports for senior review.
• Contribute to the improvement of internal estimating systems and standardised quotation formats.
• Identify and develop relationships with new and existing suppliers and subcontractors.
• Support the procurement process during project mobilisation, including negotiation and purchasing.
• Conduct site surveys when required to inform technical and commercial proposals.

Qualifications

• HND/HNC, BEng or equivalent in a relevant engineering or construction discipline, or significant relevant industry experience.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience within a construction or HVAC contracting environment.
• Knowledge of cleanroom, laboratory, life sciences, or healthcare projects is advantageous.
• Strong commercial awareness with an analytical and detail-focused approach.
• Proven ability to interpret complex project documentation and formulate clear cost strategies.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in MS Office; experience with estimating software is beneficial.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to influence and engage internal and external stakeholders.