Estimator - Construction - Exeter

Howells Solutions Limited; Exeter; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A construction services provider is seeking an Estimator to prepare cost estimates for projects up to £20 million. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with design and delivery teams, ensuring compliance with specifications and maintaining cost efficiency. Essential criteria include proven main contractor experience and strong analytical skills. Apply now to join a team focused on successful project delivery.

Qualifications

• Proven main contractor experience pricing projects up to £20M.
• Broad experience across M&E, structural, drylining, and groundworks.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to control costs and quality.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects.
• Ensure project costs align with client requirements and legislation.
• Collaborate with preconstruction teams for tender opportunities.
• Provide robust cost plans and financial guidance.

Skills

Analytical skills

Mathematical skills

Cost control

Ability to read drawings

Education

Relevant Level 4 qualification (HNC/NVQ4 or equivalent)

Degree in a construction-related discipline

Tools

Conquest estimating software

Job description

The role:

As an Estimator, you will play a key role in preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for projects up to £20 million, working collaboratively with design, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure successful project outcomes. You will be responsible for pricing all key work packages - including M&E, structural, drylining, groundworks, and all associated trades - ensuring compliance with specifications, scope, and legislation while maintaining cost efficiency and value for the client.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and detailed cost estimates for projects up to approximately £20M, covering all construction disciplines and work packages.
• Ensure all project costs align with the project scope, client requirements, and current industry legislation.
• Work collaboratively with the wider preconstruction team to secure and convert tender opportunities.
• Produce robust and transparent cost plans throughout design stages, up to target price.
• Provide cost guidance to design teams and clients to support informed decision‑making and project affordability.
• Identify opportunities, risks, and value engineering options to enhance project value.
• Cost and track change control items throughout RIBA stages, providing timely updates and impact assessments.
• Complete or oversee detailed take‑offs in accordance with SMM7, NRM2, or building quants standards.
• Provide a complete cost information pack for project handover, including comparisons, bills of quantities, tender books, and quotations.
• Coordinate with design leads to incorporate design and consultancy fees within tender summaries.
• Support the change control process by identifying and pricing design changes between RIBA stages.
• Assess alternative design or construction solutions and provide cost advice to support budget and design decisions.

Essential Criteria

• Proven main contractor experience, with a track record of independently pricing full construction projects up to £20M.
• Broad experience across all major work packages, including M&E, structural, drylining, and groundworks.
• Strong understanding of various construction methods and techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to control costs, programme, and quality in line with targets.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and numerical skills.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
• Valid CSCS card.

Desirable Criteria

• Relevant Level 4 qualification (HNC/NVQ4 or equivalent).
• Degree in a construction‑related discipline.
• Experience using Conquest or similar estimating software.
• Experience in taking off quantities to SMM7 or NRM2 standards.
• Working towards professional membership (e.g., MCIOB or RICS).

Applications

If you feel that you have the relevant experience to be successful in this position and would like to find out more please apply online today attaching a copy of your current CV. Alternatively contact us on (phone number removed).

Howells are an Equal Opportunities employer. All applications will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.

Howells acts as an Employment Business for the supply of temporary workers and an Employment Agency in relation to permanent vacancies.