Senior Estimator

JBC Resourcing; Leeds; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized architectural manufacturing company in Leeds is seeking an experienced Estimator to manage the end-to-end estimation process for architectural and interior signage tenders. The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of experience in a dedicated Estimator role, strong technical acumen in interpreting complex drawings, and a sharp commercial mindset. This position is crucial in bridging design concepts with manufacturing processes and offers opportunities for growth and margin protection.

Qualifications

• 3+ years experience in an Estimator role within architectural manufacturing.
• Proven ability to interpret complex architectural drawings.
• Experience with specialized management information systems.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end estimation process and ensure cost models are accurate.
• Serve as a technical bridge between sales and manufacturing.
• Manage all incoming inquiries from initial contact to tender submission.

Skills

Architectural drawing interpretation

Cost estimation

Commercial acumen

Value engineering

Tools

MIS / ERP systems

Job description

Role & Core Responsibilities

Reporting to the Sales Director, you will be the commercial and technical bridge between the client's design concepts and the final manufacturing cost.

Financial Ownership: Own the end-to-end estimation process for complex architectural and interior signage tenders, ensuring all cost models are accurate, profitable, and adhere to strict client specifications.

MIS System: Produce estimates using the management system to accurately reflect raw material costs, labour, installation, and overhead, driving efficiency and margin protection.

Technical Partnership: Serve as the primary technical bridge between the external sales team, clients, and the manufacturing facility, translating complex briefs into technically and commercially feasible plans.

Value Engineering: Proactively work in partnership with the sales team to present compelling value-engineered alternatives to clients to secure complex, high-margin projects without compromising quality.

Enquiry Management: Efficiently manage all incoming inquiries, taking ownership from the initial communication through to final tender submission.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will have specialized estimation experience in the architectural manufacturing sector.

Required Experience: 3+ years in a dedicated Estimator role within the signage, architectural metalwork, retail equipment manufacturing, or high-spec shopfitting sectors.

Technical Acumen: Proven ability to read and interpret complex architectural drawings, manufacturing specifications, and installation requirements.

Systems Focus: Experience using a specialized management information system (MIS / ERP) for costing and production planning is highly desirable.

Commercial Skills: A sharp commercial mindset with a focus on margin protection and upselling value‑add alternatives.

Location: Must be based within commutable distance of the Leeds office (LS postcode), with occasional travel to the St Helens site.