MEP Estimator - Laboratory Fit-Out

Henley Chase; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist delivery firm is looking for an experienced MEP Estimator to join their growing team. This role involves preparing cost estimates for complex laboratory fit-outs and working on high-value projects in the life sciences sector. Candidates should have hands-on experience in laboratory environments, strong technical knowledge, and excellent communication skills. The position offers competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Performance-related bonus

Private healthcare

Pension scheme

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an MEP Estimator within the construction or fit-out sector.
• Demonstrable experience delivering laboratory fit-out projects.
• Strong technical understanding of mechanical and electrical building services.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for MEP packages.
• Estimate HVAC, electrical, public health systems.
• Engage with supply chain for competitive quotations.

Skills

MEP Estimating

Laboratory fit-out experience

Attention to detail

Stakeholder engagement

Estimating software proficiency

Education

HNC/HND or Degree in Building Services Engineering

Professional membership (RICS, CIBSE, CIOB)

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel)

Job description

Job Description: MEP Estimator - Laboratory Fit-Out

Location: Cambridge or London (hybrid working available)
Salary: Up to £100,000 per annum (dependent on experience) + benefits

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced MEP Estimator with direct laboratory fit‑out experience to join a growing specialist delivery team working on high‑value, technically complex projects across the life sciences, pharmaceutical, and R&D sectors. This role will support projects from early feasibility through to tender submission, working closely with pre‑construction, design, and delivery teams.

The position can be based out of either our Cambridge or London offices, with flexibility for hybrid working.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for MEP packages on laboratory and high‑spec commercial fit‑out projects
• Take responsibility for estimating HVAC, electrical, public health, BMS, specialist lab systems (e.g. containment, gases, cleanrooms, fume cupboards)
• Interpret client briefs, drawings, specifications, and employer's requirements
• Produce cost plans, budgets, and tender submissions at all project stages
• Engage with supply chain and specialist subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations
• Value engineer MEP solutions while maintaining compliance with laboratory standards and regulations
• Work closely with design managers, project managers, and commercial teams
• Attend tender interviews and client meetings as required
• Identify risk, opportunity, and cost‑saving initiatives
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of market rates, materials, and emerging lab technologies

Required Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as an MEP Estimator within the construction or fit‑out sector
• Demonstrable experience delivering laboratory fit‑out projects (life sciences, pharma, research, healthcare, or clean environments)
• Strong technical understanding of mechanical and electrical building services in regulated environments
• Experience estimating projects typically ranging from £5m-£50m+
• Excellent commercial awareness and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tenders concurrently
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Office (Excel essential)

Desirable Qualifications

• HNC/HND or Degree in Building Services Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related discipline
• Professional membership (RICS, CIBSE, CIOB or similar)
• Experience working with Tier 1 or specialist life sciences contractors

What's on Offer

• Salary up to £100,000 depending on experience
• Performance‑related bonus
• Private healthcare and pension scheme
• Flexible / hybrid working arrangements
• Clear progression path within a growing life sciences delivery business
• Opportunity to work on landmark laboratory and R&D developments

If you are an MEP Estimator with hands‑on laboratory fit‑out experience and are looking to join a technically driven, well‑capitalised business operating at the forefront of the life sciences sector, we would be keen to hear from you.