Estimator

Calco Recruitment; Kesgrave; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-regarded contractor in Ipswich is seeking an experienced Estimator. Responsibilities include preparing cost estimates, analyzing tender documents, and engaging with suppliers. The ideal candidate should have proven experience in the field, expertise in construction methods, and proficiency in pricing software. This role offers competitive salaries, a supportive environment, and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Company vehicle or car allowance

Regular working hours

Opportunities for continued development

Qualifications

• Proven experience in an Estimator role within groundworks, earthworks, or civil engineering.
• Excellent understanding of cost drivers in substructure and excavation works.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, multi-project environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for various packages.
• Analyse tender documents to identify risks and opportunities.
• Engage with suppliers for accurate pricing.

Skills

Cost estimation

Understanding of construction methods

Proficient in pricing software

Ability to read technical drawings

Education

HNC/HND/Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Construction Management

Tools

Excel

Causeway

Job description

Overview

A well-regarded groundworks and earthworks contractor based in Ipswich is looking to strengthen its pre-construction function with the appointment of an experienced Estimator. Working across a busy pipeline of residential, commercial, and infrastructure schemes, you'll be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and well-considered tenders that support both new and existing client relationships. This is a key position within a tight-knit commercial and operational team, offering autonomy, long-term stability, and the opportunity to shape how work is priced and secured in a business that self-delivers across the East Anglia region.

The Role

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for groundworks, bulk earthworks, drainage, foundations, and enabling works packages.
• Analyse tender drawings, specifications, and scope documents to identify risks and opportunities.
• Lead take-offs and build-up of rates from first principles where required.
• Engage with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain accurate pricing.
• Contribute to value engineering discussions and buildability reviews with the operations team.
• Attend site visits, tender adjudications, and pre-start handovers.
• Maintain an accurate and organised tendering process, ensuring deadlines are met and commercial assumptions are clearly documented.

Requirements

• Proven experience in an Estimator role within groundworks, earthworks, or general civil engineering.
• Excellent understanding of construction methods and cost drivers in substructure and excavation works.
• Proficient in take-offs and pricing software (e.g. Excel, Causeway, or similar estimating tools).
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Comfortable working independently or as part of a small team in a fast-paced, multi-project environment.

Desirable

• Background in pricing for residential developers, commercial contractors, or civils frameworks.
• HNC/HND/Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Construction Management.
• Familiarity with tendering both competitive and negotiated work.

What\'s on Offer

• Competitive salary depending on experience.
• Company vehicle or car allowance.
• Regular working hours and a supportive office environment.
• Long-term workload secured through repeat business and regional client partnerships.
• Opportunities for continued development within a well-run, growing business.

If you\'re an experienced Estimator looking to join a hands-on, delivery-focused contractor with a strong regional reputation, this role offers stability, variety, and a great team environment