Estimator

Building Careers UK Ltd; North Waterhouse Farm; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Building Careers UK Ltd in Greater Manchester is seeking an experienced Estimator to join a regional main contractor. You will develop accurate tenders for new build and refurbishment projects and work closely with design and commercial teams.

The role requires strong Excel and estimating software skills, a solid understanding of construction methods, and the ability to manage multiple tenders while maintaining relationships with clients, subcontractors and suppliers.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Estimator within a Main Contractor environment.
• Experience pricing both new build and refurbishment projects.
• Strong understanding of estimating principles and construction methods.
• Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Preparing accurate and competitive tenders for new build and refurbishment projects.
• Reviewing drawings, specifications, and tender documentation.
• Producing detailed take-offs, cost plans, and pricing schedules.
• Obtaining and evaluating quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Preparing comprehensive tender submissions within agreed timescales.
• Identifying value engineering opportunities and cost-saving solutions.
• Assessing commercial and technical risks throughout the tender process.
• Attending tender adjudication meetings and supporting bid strategy.
• Working closely with commercial, operational, and design teams.
• Building and maintaining relationships with clients, consultants, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Supporting successful project handovers to the delivery team following contract award.

Skills

Estimator experience

Main Contractor

Tenders & pricing

Take-offs

Excel

Negotiation

Drawings interpretation

Multiple tenders

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Management

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Estimator - Main Contractor

Location - Greater Manchester

Salary/Package - £60,000 - £80,000 + Excellent Benefits Package

About the Company

Our client is an award-winning, employee-owned regional main contractor with over 50 years of experience delivering high-quality construction projects across the North West. Specialising in both new build and refurbishment, they work across the education, healthcare, commercial, residential, industrial, community, and public sectors, building a strong reputation for quality, collaboration, and exceptional client service.

With a healthy pipeline of secured work and long-standing relationships built through repeat business and framework agreements, the business continues to invest in its people, technology, and sustainable growth. As part of their continued expansion, they are now seeking an experienced Estimator to join their pre-construction team and play a key role in securing future projects.

The Role

As Estimator, you will be responsible for:

• Preparing accurate and competitive tenders for new build and refurbishment projects

• Reviewing drawings, specifications, and tender documentation

• Producing detailed take-offs, cost plans, and pricing schedules

• Obtaining and evaluating quotations from subcontractors and suppliers

• Preparing comprehensive tender submissions within agreed timescales

• Identifying value engineering opportunities and cost‑saving solutions

• Assessing commercial and technical risks throughout the tender process

• Attending tender adjudication meetings and supporting bid strategy

• Working closely with commercial, operational, and design teams

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, consultants, suppliers, and subcontractors

• Supporting successful project handovers to the delivery team following contract award

The Ideal Candidate

The successful Estimator will have:

• Proven experience as an Estimator within a Main Contractor environment

• Experience pricing both new build and refurbishment projects

• Strong understanding of construction methods and estimating principles

• Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills

• The ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications

• Strong negotiation and communication skills

• Experience managing multiple tenders simultaneously

• Good knowledge of estimating software and Microsoft Excel

• A proactive, organised, and commercially driven approach

• Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline would be advantageous

What's on Offer

• Competitive basic salary of £60,000 - £80,000

• Attractive benefits package

• Opportunity to join an award‑winning regional main contractor

• Exposure to a diverse portfolio of high‑quality construction projects

• Long‑term career progression within a growing pre‑construction team

• Ongoing professional development and training

• Collaborative and supportive working environment

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Our recruitment process is designed to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.

Please Note: Due to high volume of applicants, only those shortlisted will be contacted.