Senior Estimator

Trades Workforce Solutions; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm based in the UK is seeking a Senior Estimator to join their growing commercial team. This permanent role involves managing the preparation of high-quality tenders and cost estimates while mentoring junior estimators. The ideal candidate will have at least 4 years of experience in design & build or fit-out projects, showcasing strong commercial acumen and advanced Excel skills. This position offers significant autonomy and the chance to influence strategic bid strategies in a collaborative work environment.

Benefits

Influential role within a growing team

High level of autonomy

Collaborative working environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years' experience as an Estimator, ideally within design & build or fit-out.
• Demonstrable history of delivering high-margin, successful bids.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the preparation of high-quality tenders and detailed cost estimates.
• Negotiate contractual terms and payment structures.
• Produce detailed itemised cost plans to support financial control.

Skills

Estimating in design & build

Commercial acumen

Stakeholder management

Advanced Microsoft Excel

Mentoring junior team members

Understanding of M&E disciplines

Education

Degree or HNC/HND in construction or commercial discipline

Job description

Senior Estimator

Permanent | Construction & Design & Build Fit‑Out | New Milton, Hampshire

Hatched Talent is proud to be partnering with a high‑performing construction and fit‑out business to recruit an experienced Senior Estimator to join their Project Finance function.

This is a commercially critical role, offering strategic influence across the pre‑contract lifecycle. You’ll lead tender activity, shape competitive and profitable bids, and act as a mentor to the wider estimating team – ensuring commercial rigour without compromising quality or client outcomes.

The Role

Reporting to the Group Commercial Director, you will oversee all financial elements of the pre‑contract process. Your remit will include bid strategy, cost planning, subcontractor engagement, and client liaison, ensuring tenders are both competitive and commercially sound.

You’ll work closely with design, commercial, and leadership teams, contributing ideas, improving processes, and safeguarding project wins through the full pre‑contract phase.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the preparation of high‑quality tenders and detailed cost estimates
• Mentor and support estimators, promoting best practice and consistent standards
• Attend client briefs to understand technical, commercial, and budget requirements
• Review and analyse employer’s requirements and tender documentation
• Negotiate contractual terms and commercially viable payment structures
• Source and evaluate subcontractor quotations, resolving discrepancies
• Produce detailed itemised cost plans to support financial control
• Work collaboratively with design teams on value engineering initiatives
• Support Licence to Alter (LtA) processes and advise clients on validations and surveys
• Maintain strong client relationships throughout the pre‑contract stage
• Review estimating processes and implement improvements
• Support senior leadership in team management and recruitment where required

About You

You will be a commercially astute Senior Estimator with strong leadership capability and a proven track record of delivering profitable projects.

Essential experience and skills:

• Minimum 4 years’ experience as an Estimator, ideally within design & build or fit‑out
• Demonstrable history of delivering high‑margin, successful bids
• Strong commercial acumen with the confidence to advise across the business
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Ability to mentor and develop junior team members
• Strong understanding of M&E disciplines
• Advanced knowledge of JCT contracts and current building regulations
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; strong working knowledge of Word and Outlook
• Qualification or equivalent knowledge of relevant health & safety legislation
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable:

• Degree or HNC/HND in a construction or commercial discipline

Why Apply?

• Senior, influential role within a growing commercial team
• High level of autonomy and strategic input
• Opportunity to shape bid strategy and estimating processes
• Collaborative, values‑driven working environment
• Exposure to complex, high‑quality construction and fit‑out projects

If you are a Senior Estimator looking for a role where your commercial expertise, leadership, and judgement will be genuinely valued, we’d welcome your application.

Apply today via Hatched Talent.