Senior Mechanical Estimator

Vincent Gurney Ltd; Bracknell; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established M&E contractor based in Bracknell is looking for a Senior Mechanical Estimator. This senior role entails producing competitive cost estimates for mechanical and HVAC projects, leading tender processes, and mentoring junior estimators. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience, strong technical knowledge of mechanical systems, and proficiency in Excel. This position offers hybrid working arrangements, private healthcare, and opportunities for career advancement.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Generous holiday entitlement

Flexible working hours

Career advancement opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years of mechanical estimating experience in M&E sector.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems and HVAC services.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and digital estimating tools.

Responsibilities

• Produce detailed mechanical cost estimates using estimating software.
• Review project drawings and specifications to understand scope.
• Lead tender processes and manage submissions.

Skills

Mechanical estimating experience

Technical understanding of HVAC systems

Microsoft Excel proficiency

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Location: Bracknell, Berkshire (Office-based; hybrid options negotiable)

Reports To: Estimating Manager / MEP Commercial Manager

Salary: Up to £85,000 per annum (dependent on experience)

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Estimator to join a well-established M&E contractor based in Bracknell. This senior role will position you as a key contributor within the pre-construction team—working closely with the Estimating Manager, Project Managers, and commercial leadership to produce accurate, competitive cost estimates across mechanical and HVAC building services projects. You will take a leading role in tendering, provide expert insight during bid development, and support strategic decision-making that aligns with the company's growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce detailed, accurate mechanical cost estimates using Excel and digital take-off/estimating tools.
• Review and interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documents to fully understand project scope.
• Lead tender and bid processes—compile documentation, manage submissions, coordinate with clients, consultants, and subcontractors.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of supplier rates, material costs, and market trends.
• Drive value engineering discussions to identify cost-effective, technically sound alternatives.
• Attend client meetings, site visits, and clarification sessions to support bid accuracy.
• Maintain comprehensive internal estimating records, pricing databases, and supplier directories.
• Mentor junior members of the estimating team and contribute to ongoing process improvement.

Essential Qualifications & Skills

• Significant experience in mechanical estimating within the building services/M&E sector (typically 5+ years).
• Strong technical understanding of mechanical systems, including HVAC, public health, and associated services.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel; competent with digital take-off or estimation software.
• Confident communicator—experienced in liaising with clients, consultants, project stakeholders, and supply chain partners.
• Excellent analytical skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple bids concurrently.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Desirable Experience

• Experience with advanced estimating or tendering software beyond Excel.
• Familiarity with both pre-designed and design & build estimating methodologies.
• Prior involvement in complex value engineering and alternative-means solutions.
• Background working in sectors such as healthcare, education, commercial, or public sector projects.

Working Arrangements & Benefits

• Bracknell-based office with hybrid flexibility (e.g., 1 day per week WFH).
• Flexible working hours available (e.g., 6:30am-3:00pm or 8:00am-5:00pm).
• Private healthcare, generous holiday entitlement, and additional company benefits.
• Opportunity to join a forward-thinking, growth-focused team with genuine scope for career advancement.

What We're Looking For

A proactive and technically strong senior estimator who excels at interpreting complex documentation, building accurate cost models, and producing high-quality, competitive tenders. You'll thrive in a professional environment where expertise, initiative, and collaboration are highly valued.