Trainee Estimator

Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd; St Albans; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction supply company is seeking a Trainee Estimator to join their Colney Heath Steels team. This full-time role involves preparing estimates for steel and building materials, reviewing technical documents, and supporting customer queries. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, good numeracy skills, and a desire to learn. The position offers a salary range of £30,000 - £34,000 with benefits including paid holidays and training opportunities.

Benefits

25 days paid holiday plus Bank Holidays

Pension scheme

Employee assistance programme

Access to online GP services

Opportunities for ongoing development

Qualifications

• Keen attention to detail with strong numeracy and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Confidence using spreadsheets and emails.
• Willingness to learn and grow within the role.
• Professional and reliable work ethic.
• Previous experience in building materials or construction is helpful but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Prepare quotations and estimates accurately.
• Review technical drawings and specifications.
• Liaise with customers to understand their requirements.
• Maintain records and update databases.
• Work with sales and operations for project delivery.
• Develop knowledge of steel products and industry trends.
• Uphold health and safety requirements.

Skills

Attention to detail

Numeracy skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Computer skills

Reliability

Proactive approach

Job description

About Lawsons – Colney Heath Steels

Lawsons is the UK's leading independent supplier of timber, fencing, and building materials, proudly serving customers since 1921. With 35 branches across London and the South East, we are committed to delivering exceptional service, quality products, and professional growth for our 700+ employees. We’re looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our Colney Heath Steels team as a Trainee Estimator and begin a rewarding career in the construction supply industry.

Start Your Career as a Trainee Estimator – Construction & Steelwork Supplies

If you have an eye for detail, enjoy working with numbers, and are eager to learn, this is your opportunity to kickstart your career with a company built on excellence, integrity, and teamwork. As a Trainee Estimator at Lawsons, you’ll play a vital part in supporting steelwork and construction projects through accurate cost calculations and professional customer service.

Main Responsibilities of a Trainee Estimator – Colney Heath Steels

• Assist in the preparation of quotations and estimates for steelwork and building materials, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail at every stage.
• Review technical drawings, specifications, and project documents to develop cost estimates under supervision.
• Liaise with customers and internal teams to understand requirements, discussing solutions and providing information on products and pricing.
• Support the management of incoming enquiries, maintaining careful records and updating relevant databases.
• Work collaboratively with the sales and operations teams to ensure successful delivery of projects and customer satisfaction.
• Continuously develop knowledge of steel products, construction materials, and industry trends through training and on-the-job experience.
• Uphold all Health & Safety requirements in accordance with company procedures and industry standards.

What Makes a Successful Trainee Estimator in Construction and Steel?

• Keen attention to detail, with strong numeracy and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills – both verbal and written.
• Confidence working with computers, especially spreadsheets and email.
• Eagerness to learn, take on feedback, and grow within the role.
• Professional, reliable, and proactive approach to work.
• Previous experience in building materials, construction, or a similar environment is helpful but not essential – full training will be provided.
• Commitment to delivering outstanding customer service and working as part of a supportive team.

Working Hours, Salary, and Benefits at Lawsons Colney Heath Steels

• Full-time role, Monday to Friday (core hours – further details upon application).
• Salary range £30,000 - £34,000, with scope for progression as your skills and experience develop.
• 25 days paid holiday plus Bank Holidays and a paid celebration day.
• Pension scheme, death in service cover, and access to our employee assistance programme.
• Access to our MY Reward benefits platform, including online GP services.
• Opportunities for ongoing development and career progression within the Lawsons Group.

Why Start Your Professional Journey as a Trainee Estimator with Lawsons?

• Join a respected, stable, and growing company with over a century of heritage.
• Receive expert training and mentoring to help you succeed in your new role.
• Work in a friendly environment where your contributions are valued and recognised.
• Experience genuine opportunities for future advancement in the construction supply industry.