Senior Estimator

Building Careers UK; Penwortham; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction recruitment agency seeks a Senior Estimator for a well-established North West contractor in Preston. This role involves preparing accurate estimates for various projects including residential and education sectors. The successful candidate will have proven experience in the UK construction sector, strong numeracy and analytical skills, and a degree in a related discipline. Attractive salary and benefits are offered, promoting personal development and a collaborative work environment.

Benefits

Car/car allowance

Pension

25+ days annual leave

Additional company benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Estimator in the UK construction sector.
• Experience with new build and refurbishment projects.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and costs.

Responsibilities

• Preparing competitive estimates for new build and refurbishment projects.
• Leading the pre‑tender process including cost planning and risk analysis.
• Reviewing and interpreting tender documents and specifications.

Skills

Strong communication and negotiation skills

Excellent numeracy

Analytical skills

Proactive and detail-oriented

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related discipline

Job description

Senior Estimator – Preston

Preston – £65,000‑£80,000 + Package

Your new company

You will be joining a well‑established North West construction contractor with a strong reputation for delivering high‑quality residential, education, care home, student accommodation, and refurbishment projects. Known for their collaborative approach and long‑term client partnerships, this company is growing steadily and is now seeking a talented Senior Estimator to strengthen their commercial team in Preston.

Responsibilities

• Preparing accurate and competitive estimates for new build and refurbishment projects across multiple sectors.
• Leading the pre‑tender process, including cost planning, risk analysis, and pricing strategy.
• Reviewing and interpreting tender documents, drawings, and specifications.
• Building strong relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and consultants to obtain quotations and assess costs.
• Producing detailed Bills of Quantities, cost plans, and procurement strategies.
• Ensuring tender submissions meet internal standards, deadlines, and client requirements.
• Collaborating with project teams to review post‑tender feedback and implement lessons learned.
• Supporting the Commercial/Estimating Manager with forecasting and pipeline reporting.
• Mentoring and guiding junior estimators and commercial staff as required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Estimator in the UK construction sector, preferably in residential, care homes, student accommodation, education, or refurbishment projects.
• Experience with both new build and refurbishment projects.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, costs, and procurement strategies.
• Experience preparing tenders for projects of varying size and complexity.
• Knowledge of JCT or NEC forms of contract is desirable.
• Excellent numeracy, analytical, and commercial judgement.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and priorities under pressure.
• Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Proactive, detail‑oriented, and commercially minded.

Benefits

You will receive a competitive salary between £65,000‑£80,000, plus a comprehensive package including car/car allowance, pension, 25+ days annual leave, and additional company benefits. This role offers an opportunity to influence the company's growth strategy, take ownership of high‑profile projects, and work in a supportive, career‑focused environment where personal development and progression are encouraged.

Apply

Apply: If you're interested in this opportunity, then please get in touch today with our Commercial Specialist, Mark Harris.

Building Careers UK specialises in Construction and Property recruitment and serves as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job, you accept the Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers which can be found on our website.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Our recruitment process is designed to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.

Please Note: Due to high volume of applicants, only those shortlisted will be contacted.