Trainee Mechanical Estimator – External
We are looking for a Trainee Mechanical Estimator to join our team. Working closely with the Lead Proposals Engineer and wider team, you will develop practical skills across the full bid lifecycle – from reviewing technical documents and building cost models to supporting tender submissions and engaging with clients.
The role will give you genuine exposure to complex projects, alongside work spanning highly regulated and technically demanding industries. You will receive mentoring and guidance from experienced engineers throughout, with a clear path towards contributing independently to the proposals process over time. The role will require travel between our Cumbrian sites.
Company
Bendalls Engineering is a long‑established UK engineering company founded in 1894, based in Carlisle, Cumbria. We operate across nuclear, defence, oil & gas, and renewable energy industries, providing expert fabrication, welding, machining and advanced process equipment production. With an annual turnover of £30 million+, we focus on people, continuous improvement and long‑term partnerships.
Location
Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, CA3 0EH, with travel to Barrow in Furness.
Hours of Work
Monday to Friday – 40 hours per week with an option of an early finish Friday.
Salary
£30,000 – £40,000 per annum.
Key Responsibilities
* Review technical specifications, drawings and project documentation under supervision to understand project scope and identify cost drivers.
* Support the preparation of comprehensive cost assessments covering labour, materials, equipment and subcontractor elements, adhering to company standards and industry regulations.
* Assist in the development of proposal documents under the guidance of senior team members.
* Work with the procurement team to obtain competitive pricing from suppliers and subcontractors.
* Carry out site visits and evaluations to gather project data and understand practical constraints.
* Support the identification of cost‑saving opportunities and contribute to value engineering discussions.
* Deliver accurate and timely estimates to support bid proposals and tender submissions.
* Attend internal and external meetings, building confidence in presenting and justifying estimates to stakeholders.
Requirements
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to work with engineers, project managers, suppliers and clients.
* Logical and analytical approach to problem‑solving with a keen eye for detail.
* Competence in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word.
* Ability to manage time and prioritise tasks to meet deadlines.
* A genuine interest in mechanical engineering, estimating or a related technical discipline.
Why Join Us
* Be part of a well‑established engineering business with a strong reputation.
* Take on a role with real ownership and visibility, becoming a trusted partner to the wider business.
* Work in a collaborative, supportive environment that values ideas, continuous improvement and professional development.
* Make a genuine impact on business performance.
Benefits
* Excellent pension contributions and life insurance.
* 25 days annual leave plus public holidays.
* Potential participation in salary sacrifice (technology and car scheme) and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
* Access to an Employee Assistance Portal and a health cash plan.
All successful candidates will be subject to a BPSS security check.
Bendalls Engineering Ltd is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief.
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