Senior Estimator

Michael Taylor Search & Selection; City Of London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction recruitment agency is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead the estimating function for commercial projects in London. The role will involve preparing detailed cost estimates, collaborating with teams, and assessing risks. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of estimating experience, strong analytical and communication skills, and a relevant professional qualification. This position offers an opportunity to drive cost control and commercial success in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience as an estimator in commercial construction or fit-out.
• Strong proficiency in take-off and quantity measurement from drawings.
• Experience in tendering and subcontractor procurement.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of detailed cost estimates for commercial projects.
• Analyze architectural and structural drawings to quantify work.
• Liaise with subcontractors to obtain competitive rates.

Skills

Technical understanding across all disciplines

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team leadership

Risk assessment

Education

Professional qualification in Quantity Surveying

Membership of professional bodies (RICS, CIOB)

Tools

Estimating software

Spreadsheets

Job description

Michael Taylor are delighted to be working alongside a valued client in their search for a Senior Estimator. They are an industry leading main contractor specialising in commercial fit-out and refurbishment projects. We deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions across London and the UK, working closely with clients, architects, and contractors to turn complex designs into reality.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Senior Estimator to lead and manage the estimating function for our commercial project portfolio. You will be responsible for delivering accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for projects at pre-construction stages, supporting tender submissions, and working closely with design, procurement, and project delivery teams to ensure cost control and commercial success.

The Senior Estimator will also play a key strategic role in securing new business, managing risk, and driving process improvements within the estimating team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of detailed and conceptual cost estimates (preliminary & detailed) for commercial, fit-out, refurbishment, and design & build projects.
• Analyse architectural, structural, MEP, and interior drawings, specifications, bills of quantities, and project briefs to quantify work elements.
• Price all disciplines (finishes, MEP, joinery, building services, structural works, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC) and prepare trade breakdowns.
• Liaise with subcontractors, specialist contractors, suppliers, and vendors to obtain competitive rates, review quotations, clarify scope, and validate pricing assumptions.
• Assess risk, apply contingencies and allowances, and ensure costs are realistic and resilient.
• Maintain internal cost databases, rate libraries, and historical records to inform estimates and future proposals.
• Collaborate with design, procurement, and project teams to refine design for cost efficiency, value engineering, and constructability input.
• Review tender packages, assumptions, exclusions, and contract terms to ensure clarity and alignment with project risks.
• Present and defend estimates to senior management and clients as required.
• Mentor and support junior estimators and continuously improve estimating processes, tools, and workflows.
• Provide input to bid strategy, margin allocations, and commercial decision-making.
• Monitor market rates, material cost trends, labor rates, supply chain constraints, and inflationary pressures, feeding back into estimating assumptions.
• Assist with post-contract reviews to evaluate estimating accuracy and support project delivery teams.

Requirements & Skills

Essential

• Proven experience (typically 7+ years) as an estimator in commercial construction, fit-out, interiors, or design & build.
• Strong technical understanding across all disciplines: finishes, building services / MEP, structural, joinery / cabinetry, etc.
• Excellent proficiency in take-off / quantity measurement from drawings / specifications.
• Experience in tendering, subcontractor procurement, negotiation, and commercial assessment.
• Ability to assess risk and apply suitable contingency.
• Familiarity with estimating software and spreadsheets.
• Strong analytical, numerical, and financial skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Sound commercial judgment and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple bids concurrently and meet tight deadlines.
• Team leadership and mentoring ability.

Desirable

• Experience in London / UK commercial fit-out and refurbishment market.
• Understanding of building regulations, sustainability measures, and M&E systems.
• Exposure to integrated design & build projects.
• Professional qualification in Quantity Surveying, Estimating, Construction Management, or relevant discipline.
• Membership of professional bodies (RICS, CIOB, or equivalent).

Reporting & Team Structure

• Reports to the Head of Estimating.
• Will manage or mentor assistant estimators.
• Works closely with commercial, design, procurement, and project delivery teams.