Structural Steel Estimator (or Trainee / Junior Estimator)

Contek Recruitment Solutions Ltd; Preston; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

EOT profit sharing

Pension scheme

On-site parking

Job summary

Contek Recruitment Solutions Ltd is recruiting a Structural Steel Estimator in Preston for an established steel fabrication specialist. The role suits someone with experience in structural and architectural steelwork or related fields and offers opportunities to learn and progress.

You will read and interpret drawings, prepare material take-offs and cost estimates, obtain supplier quotes, assess labour and site costs, and present formal quotations to clients.

Qualifications

• Read, interpret, and analyze architectural and structural engineering drawings/specifications.
• Prepare accurate, detailed material take-offs and cost estimates for structural steelwork and secondary metalwork.
• Obtain competitive quotes from material suppliers, galvanizers, coaters, and subcontractors.
• Assess fabrication and erection labor requirements, timeframes, and site setup costs.
• Prepare and present comprehensive formal quotations to clients.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with main contractors, architects, and suppliers.
• Hand over awarded projects smoothly to our project management and fabrication teams.

Responsibilities

• Read, interpret, and analyze architectural and structural engineering drawings/specifications.
• Prepare accurate, detailed material take-offs and cost estimates for structural steelwork and secondary metalwork.
• Obtain competitive quotes from material suppliers, galvanizers, coaters, and subcontractors.
• Assess fabrication and erection labor requirements, timeframes, and site setup costs.
• Prepare and present comprehensive formal quotations to clients.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with main contractors, architects, and suppliers.
• Hand over awarded projects smoothly to our project management and fabrication teams.

Skills

Estimating software

Excel

CAD drawings reading

Job description

Position Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: Competitive, negotiable based on experience

About the Role

We are an established steel fabrication specialist seeking a dedicated Structural Steel Estimator to join our busy team.

Whether you are an experienced estimator with a solid background in structural and architectural steelwork, or someone from a related background (such as CAD drafting, steel detailing, fabrication, or quantity surveying) looking to transition into a full-time estimating role, we want to hear from you. We are more than happy to invest in training the right person who possesses the right foundational knowledge and a drive to learn.

As an Employee‑Owned Business, they believe the people who contribute to our success should share in it. Through their Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), their employees directly benefit from the company's achievements and future growth.

• Individual performance-related bonus.
• Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) tax‑free profit share bonus.
• Company pension scheme.

Key Responsibilities

• Read, interpret, and analyze architectural and structural engineering drawings/specifications.
• Prepare accurate, detailed material take-offs and cost estimates for structural steelwork and secondary metalwork.
• Obtain competitive quotes from material suppliers, galvanizers, coaters, and subcontractors.
• Assess fabrication and erection labor requirements, timeframes, and site setup costs.
• Prepare and present comprehensive formal quotations to clients.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with main contractors, architects, and suppliers.
• Hand over awarded projects smoothly to our project management and fabrication teams.

What We Are Looking For

For Experienced Estimators:

• Proven track record estimating structural steel frame buildings and fabrications.
• Strong familiarity with UK steel standards, connection details, and fabrication processes.
• Proficiency with estimating software, Excel, and reading CAD drawings.

For Trainee / Career-Changer Applicants:

• Practical experience or strong knowledge in structural steelwork (e.g., as a Steel Detailer, CAD Technician, Fabricator, Site Supervisor, or Junior QS).
• Ability to read and interpret technical construction and structural drawings accurately.
• Strong numerical skills, comfortable working with spreadsheets, and high attention to detail.
• A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn estimating methodology on the job.

Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience and skill level.
• Full training, mentorship, and support (if entering at a trainee/junior level).
• Opportunities for career progression within a growing team.
• On-site parking and friendly working environment