Senior Estimator

Acorn Limited; Slough; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company events

Wellbeing benefits – 24-hour turnaround GP appointment

25 days holiday

Cycle to Work Scheme

Job summary

Acorn Limited is seeking a Senior Estimator in Slough to oversee pricing strategies and lead a team of estimators. In this pivotal role, you will develop competitive, strategic cost estimates and ensure compliance with industry standards.

The successful candidate will have over five years of estimating experience, strong analytical skills, and a passion for mentoring others. Benefits include company events, 25 days holiday, and wellbeing programs.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in estimating, especially for complex projects.
• Strong leadership skills with a focus on quality solutions.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Develop pricing aligned with client requirements.
• Review and approve estimates prepared by junior team members.
• Conduct site surveys for accurate costings.
• Ensure smooth handover of contracts to Operations teams.

Skills

Estimating methodologies

Pricing strategies

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Leadership

MS Excel

Estimating software

Job description

Are you an experienced estimator ready to take ownership of high-value, complex projects and play a pivotal role in business growth?

We are looking for a Senior Estimator to lead the production of accurate, competitive, and strategic cost estimates across new bids, renewals, and re-tenders. This is an opportunity to step into a senior, influential position where your commercial insight and leadership will directly shape winning propositions and long-term client relationships.

The Role

As Senior Estimator, you will take the lead on developing pricing strategies, managing tender processes, and ensuring the highest standards of accuracy and compliance. You will work closely with Sales, Operations, and Commercial teams to deliver compelling, commercially sound proposals that align with wider business objectives.

Alongside your technical expertise, you will lead and develop a team of estimators, driving performance, mentoring junior talent, and promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Location: Slough

Salary: Based on experience

Hours: 37.5 hours a week

Company Benefits

• Company events
• Wellbeing benefits – 24 hours turnaround GP appointment for the whole family
• 25 days holiday (not including bank holidays)
• Cycle to Work Scheme

Key Responsibilities

• Develop pricing aligned with client requirements, task schedules, and SLAs
• Review and approve estimates prepared by junior team members
• Provide input into pricing strategies, risk assessments, and value engineering
• Manage internal sign-off processes for all estimates
• Review and assess tender documentation, specifications, and commercial requirements
• Conduct site surveys to ensure accurate costings
• Support bid/no-bid decisions through risk and cost analysis
• Produce high-quality tender submissions and proposal documents
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and tender interviews
• Ensure smooth handover of contracts to Operations teamsBuild strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors
• Source competitive and compliant supplier/subcontractor quotes
• Support contract negotiations and commercial discussions

General Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Sales, Business Development, and Operations teams
• Maintain accurate CRM records and forecasting data
• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards
• Deliver exceptional customer service at all times

About You

We’re looking for a driven and detail-oriented professional with strong leadership skills and a passion for delivering high-quality commercial solutions.

Essential Experience & Skills

• 5+ years experience in estimating, including complex or large-scale projects
• Strong knowledge of estimating methodologies, pricing strategies, and tender processes
• Excellent numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and compliance
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Proven experience leading and developing teams
• Proficiency in MS Excel, Word, and estimating software
• Experience within the FM or commercial sectors
• Knowledge of contract frameworks and SLAs

Equal Opportunity Statement We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, colour, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability.