Sales Estimator – Precision Engineering Meets Commercial Acumen

James Engineering Constructions Ltd; Peacehaven; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established construction firm in the UK is looking for a proactive Sales Estimator to join their commercial team. The ideal candidate will translate drawings into competitive cost proposals for complex projects, working closely with clients and operations. Strong estimating experience in structural steelwork is preferred. This role offers a competitive salary and the chance to influence project pricing in a supportive team environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Long-term role

Supportive team culture

Opportunities for career growth

Qualifications

• Experience in estimating, preferably in structural/modular steelwork.
• Ability to interpret and extract quantities from engineering drawings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Review tender enquiries and project specifications.
• Prepare accurate and timely cost estimates and quotations.
• Liaise with clients to clarify requirements.

Skills

Estimating experience

Ability to interpret and extract quantities from engineering drawings

Excellent communication skills

Commercial awareness

Highly organized and self-motivated

Good IT skills, especially Excel

Collaborative team player

Tools

StruMIS

Job description

Location: Alfreton, Derbyshire
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum (based on experience)
Type: Full-time, Permanent

Shape the Future of UK Steel Projects

James Engineering is a well‑established, family‑owned business with a strong reputation in the fabrication and installation of industrial chimneys, flue systems, and bespoke secondary and modular steelwork.

As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a proactive, detail‑focused Sales Estimator to join our commercial team. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in pricing and winning complex, interesting projects across the UK and abroad.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Sales Estimator, you’ll be at the forefront of new business, translating drawings and specifications into commercially viable, accurately costed proposals.

You’ll work closely with our clients, operations team, and directors to ensure bids are competitive, realistic, and aligned with our reputation for quality and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Review tender enquiries and project specifications
• Take off steelwork quantities from technical drawings
• Prepare accurate and timely cost estimates and quotations
• Liaise with clients to clarify requirements and ensure best‑fit solutions
• Collaborate with production and contracts teams to confirm pricing and lead times
• Maintain records of submitted bids and track outcomes
• Support follow‑up conversations to convert quotes into live contracts

What You’ll Bring

You’ll have a sharp eye for detail, strong commercial instincts, and ideally experience in structural or industrial steelwork, chimneys and flues.

Your Skills & Experience

• Experience in estimating (preferably in structural/modular steelwork)
• Ability to interpret and extract quantities from engineering drawings
• Excellent communication skills – verbal and written
• Commercially aware and confident discussing margins, costs, and client expectations
• Highly organised and self‑motivated, able to manage multiple bids
• Good IT skills, especially Excel
• Comfortable working independently but also as part of a collaborative team
• References required
• Experience of StruMIS would be advantageous but not essential

What We Offer

• Competitive salary tailored to your experience
• Secure, long‑term role in a successful and growing family business
• A supportive, approachable team culture
• Opportunities to influence how we win and price projects
• Continued investment in tools, technology, and training
• On‑site parking and modern workshop/facilities

We welcome applicants from both experienced estimators and up‑and‑coming professionals ready to take the next step in their career.
No agencies please.