Estimator/Senior Estimator

Building Careers UK; Ringway; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction recruitment firm in Manchester is seeking an Estimator/Senior Estimator to prepare cost estimates and tenders for various projects. The role involves preparing detailed budgets, liaising with subcontractors, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have a solid track record in pricing residential and educational schemes. This opportunity offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including pension and healthcare.

Benefits

Car allowance

Pension

Private healthcare

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience as an Estimator in a main contracting environment.
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to interpret complex tender documents.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines with accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates, tenders, and budgets for projects.
• Review drawings and specifications to assess risks and opportunities.
• Liaise with subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations.
• Mentor and support junior estimators.

Skills

Estimating skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Tools

Estimating software

MS Office

Job description

Overview

Estimator / Senior Estimator - £50,000 to £75,000 + Package - Manchester

A long-established and reputable main contractor with a strong presence across the North West, delivering projects in low-rise residential housing, mid-rise apartments (3-4 storey), education (new build, refurbishments, and extensions), and a range of complex refurbishments. With project values typically ranging from £500k up to £15m, this contractor has built a strong reputation for quality, client care, and innovation. Due to continued growth and a healthy pipeline, they are now seeking to expand their commercial team.

Your new role

Our client is seeking an experienced Estimator or Senior Estimator to join their Manchester team. You will take a lead role in preparing cost estimates and tenders across a varied project portfolio, supporting bid submissions, and ensuring competitive and accurate pricing. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious individual who thrives in a collaborative and professional environment.

Responsibilities

• Preparing detailed cost estimates, tenders, and budgets for projects ranging from £500k to £15m.
• Reviewing drawings, specifications, and tender documentation to assess risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
• Leading on bids for low-rise housing, mid-rise apartment schemes, educational facilities, and refurbishment projects.
• Liaising with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive quotations.
• Producing tender summaries and reports for senior management review.
• Working closely with pre-construction, design, and operational teams to ensure smooth project handover.
• Building strong client and supply chain relationships to support repeat business.
• Mentoring and supporting junior estimators where required.

What you will need to succeed

• Demonstrable experience as an Estimator (or Senior Estimator) within a main contracting environment.
• A solid track record of pricing residential, education, and refurbishment schemes.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to interpret complex tender documents.
• Excellent analytical, numerical, and IT skills, including estimating software and MS Office.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills with a collaborative approach.

What you get in return

• Competitive salary of £50,000 - £75,000, depending on experience.
• Attractive package including car/allowance, pension, private healthcare, and other benefits.
• Opportunity to join a respected, employee-focused contractor with a strong project pipeline.
• A positive, team-orientated environment with genuine scope for career progression.
• Exposure to varied projects across residential, education, and refurbishment sectors, offering professional development and career satisfaction.

Apply

If you're interested in this opportunity, please get in touch today with our Commercial Specialist, Mark Harris.

Building Careers UK specialises in Construction and Property recruitment and serves as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job, you accept the Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers which can be found on our website.

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.

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