Senior Estimator

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

Job summary

A leading construction contractor in Preston is seeking a Senior Estimator to join its commercial team. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in the UK construction sector, particularly in residential and education projects. This role involves preparing competitive estimates, leading the pre-tender process, and supporting project teams. The position offers a salary between £65,000 - £80,000, along with a comprehensive package that includes a car allowance and generous annual leave. Join a collaborative environment dedicated to your professional growth.

Benefits

Car allowance

Pension scheme

25+ days annual leave

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Estimator in the UK construction sector.
• Knowledge of construction methods and procurement strategies.
• Ability to manage multiple bids and priorities under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and competitive estimates for new construction projects.
• Lead the pre-tender process including cost planning and risk analysis.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers for obtaining quotations.

Skills

Numeracy

Analytical skills

Commercial judgement

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Project management

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying

Degree in Construction Management

Job description

Senior Estimator

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.

Your new role

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead the estimating function across a range of projects including residential, affordable housing, care homes, student accommodation, education, and refurbishment schemes. This role covers both new build and refurbishment projects. You will report into the Commercial/Estimating Manager and play a key role in bidding, tendering, and supporting the company's growth strategy.

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.

Application

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

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.