Senior Mechanical Estimator

CJC Recruit; Falkirk; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Mechanical Estimator to join a pre-construction team. This role focuses on producing accurate tenders for commercial MEP projects and requires a strong technical understanding of mechanical systems. Benefits include a competitive salary and opportunities for career progression within the company.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension

Holidays and benefits package

Opportunities for progression

Supportive environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Mechanical Estimator within MEP or building services.
• Strong understanding of commercial mechanical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for mechanical services.
• Interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and tender documentation.
• Identify value engineering opportunities.
• Ensure accuracy in estimations and compliance with regulations.

Skills

Mechanical Estimation

Technical Analysis

Cost Estimation

Problem-Solving

Communication

Job description

Mechanical Estimator – MEP Projects

Location: Scotland

Sector: Mechanical & Electrical Installation – Commercial Projects

Employment: Permanent

About the Company

Our client operates across a diverse range of sectors – Healthcare, Education, Retail, Sports & Leisure, Distilling & Brewing, Industrial, Refurbishment, Commercial, Corporate, Hospitality and Residential – delivering full Design‑to‑Commissioning MEP services.

They specialise in bespoke interior fit‑outs and comprehensive Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing projects, providing high‑quality engineering solutions to an established and growing client base.

With continued expansion in the commercial MEP space, they are looking to appoint an experienced Mechanical Estimator to strengthen their pre‑construction team.

Role Overview

The Mechanical Estimator is responsible for producing accurate, competitive, and technically robust tenders for mechanical installation packages across commercial MEP projects. The role works closely with the Pre‑Construction Manager, Project Managers, Designers, and supply‑chain partners to ensure all bids are compliant, profitable, and deliverable.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Tender Production

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for mechanical services (HVAC, pipework, LTHW/CHW, ventilation, domestic services, plant installation).
• Interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, schedules, and tender documentation.
• Prepare Bills of Quantities and detailed take‑offs using digital tools.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative technical solutions.
• Obtain supplier and subcontractor quotations; evaluate and compare costs.
• Ensure accuracy in labour, material, equipment, and preliminary estimations.

Technical & Commercial Input

• Work with the design and engineering teams to review drawings, identify risks, and clarify scope.
• Assist in developing tender strategies and bid proposals.
• Attend tender meetings, site visits, and clarification sessions as required.
• Provide post‑tender support, including breakdowns, revisions, and negotiations.
• Assist in handover to delivery teams following successful bids.

Risk, Compliance & Documentation

• Identify commercial, technical, and programme risks within each tender.
• Ensure all estimates comply with current regulations, standards, and company policies.
• Produce supporting documents, tender clarifications, summary sheets, and bid submissions.
• Maintain accurate records of tender documents, quotes, and cost databases.

About You

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Mechanical Estimator within an MEP, building services, or mechanical contracting environment.
• Strong technical understanding of commercial mechanical systems (HVAC, plant rooms, LTHW, CHW, VRF/VRV, ventilation, DHW).
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, schematics, and schedules.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical installation methods, labour outputs, and commercial principles.
• Excellent numerical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Solid understanding of the full tendering process for commercial projects.

Preferred

• Experience tendering in sectors such as Healthcare, Education, Industrial, Distillery/Brewing, Hospitality, and Corporate fit‑out.
• Familiarity with digital take‑off software and estimating packages.
• Ability to build strong supplier and subcontractor relationships.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary tailored to experience.
• Pension, holidays, and benefits package.
• Opportunities for progression into Senior Estimator, Pre‑Construction, or Bid Management roles.
• Supportive environment with access to in‑house design, commercial, and delivery teams.
• Chance to work on high‑profile commercial MEP projects across Scotland.