Graduate Estimator Trainee: Shape Budgets & Bids

Wates Group; Leeds; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Private medical insurance

Car allowance

Health & wellness programme

26 days holiday + bank holidays

Birthday Day off

Job summary

Wates Group is offering an Estimating Management Trainee programme in Leeds and London to develop commercial and technical skills for construction projects. You will learn to prepare cost plans, review drawings and tender documents, and collaborate with commercial, pre-construction, operations and supply chain teams to shape budgets and win work.

You will gain practical experience through a mix of placements, workshops and relevant qualifications, with progression opportunities across a leading

Qualifications

• By September 2027, you must have obtained a bachelor's degree with a predicted or achieved classification of 2:2 or above.
• Your degree subject must be relevant to the position.
• A full UK driving licence is required.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of cost plans, budgets and detailed estimates to support tender submissions and new business opportunities.
• Review project drawings, specifications and tender documentation to identify scope, risks and cost implications.
• Support the evaluation of subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring costs are competitive and aligned with project requirements.
• Help produce customer-focused bid responses and work-winning strategies, tailoring submissions to meet the specific needs of each client.
• Compile and coordinate tender documentation and electronic submissions, ensuring internal processes, governance and deadlines are met.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Commercial, Pre-Construction, Operations and Supply Chain teams to develop a broad understanding of the project lifecycle.
• Assist in researching market trends, material costs and labour rates to help inform estimating decisions.
• Develop an understanding of how different materials, designs and construction methods can affect project costs, helping to identify practical and cost-effective solutions for clients.
• Build strong relationships with colleagues, customers and supply chain partners while developing your professional network across the business.
• Gain the relevant technical and behavioural knowledge for your role, through the completion of a technical manual, behavioural workshops, short-term placements and relevant qualifications.

Education

Bachelor’s degree (2:1/2:2)

Job description

Wates Group is offering an Estimating Management Trainee programme in Leeds and London to develop commercial and technical skills for construction projects. You will learn to prepare cost plans, review drawings and tender documents, and collaborate with commercial, pre-construction, operations and supply chain teams to shape budgets and win work.

You will gain practical experience through a mix of placements, workshops and relevant qualifications, with progression opportunities across a leading