Pre-Construction Estimator: Tendering & Cost Planning

Wates Smartspace; Basingstoke; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Wates Residential is seeking an Estimator for our South region pre-construction team to develop robust cost plans, review tender documentation, and influence commercial strategy from the earliest stages of development.

You will work closely with pre-construction, commercial and work-winning teams to produce accurate estimates, support tender submissions, and maximise value across multiple projects. This role requires strong Excel skills and experience with CostX.

Qualifications

• Knowledge within a pre-construction or estimating environment.
• Knowledge of tendering, costing and pricing processes.
• Understanding of construction methodology and design.
• Experience working with subcontractors and supply chain partners.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong analytical and commercial awareness.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with estimating software such as CostX.

Responsibilities

• Review tender documentation to understand project requirements.
• Produce accurate cost plans and estimates across RIBA stages.
• Measure and assess design information using industry-standard tools.
• Liaise with supply chain; manage pricing with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Support tender submissions and commercial sign-off documents.
• Contribute to project commercial strategies and value engineering.
• Assess risks and opportunities to maximise project success.
• Maintain and develop cost data for future bids.

Skills

Tendering

Costing

Design understanding

Subcontractor liaison

Stakeholder comms

Analytical thinking

Excel advanced

Tools

CostX

Job description

Wates Residential is seeking an Estimator for our South region pre-construction team to develop robust cost plans, review tender documentation, and influence commercial strategy from the earliest stages of development.

You will work closely with pre-construction, commercial and work-winning teams to produce accurate estimates, support tender submissions, and maximise value across multiple projects. This role requires strong Excel skills and experience with CostX.