At Three9s Talent, we specialise in placing commercially capable professionals into delivery-led SME construction and fit-out contractors where accuracy, accountability, and clear thinking matter more than corporate process.
We are currently supporting an established contractor looking to appoint an Estimator who can operate independently day-to-day, take responsibility for their work, and contribute reliably to live tenders - without requiring constant supervision.
This is not a junior role and not a training position.
This Role Will Suit You If:
* You already have hands-on UK estimating experience and can work with minimal day-to-day guidance
* You are organised, disciplined, and reliable with documents, data, and deadlines
* You take pride in producing accurate, well-presented estimates
* You communicate clearly and professionally with internal teams and suppliers
* You are comfortable asking questions early, not late
* You can explain the logic behind your pricing when challenged
Key Responsibilities:
* Preparing accurate estimates using UK pricing methodologies
* Reviewing drawings and tender documentation to identify risks, gaps, and ambiguities
* Requesting, reviewing, and comparing supplier and subcontractor quotes
* Clearly defining exclusions, provisional sums, and allowances
* Maintaining well-structured estimating files and Excel-based pricing models
* Managing multiple tenders simultaneously in a controlled, organised manner
* Supporting commercial discussions with clear, logical pricing input
What Good Work Looks Like Here:
* Estimates are reviewed and discussed, not ignored or rubber-stamped
* Clear scope definition, exclusions, and pricing logic are valued over rushed numbers
* Estimators are listened to during commercial discussions
* Quality and accuracy matter more than volume-only bidding
What You Can Expect:
* A stable, established SME environment with a consistent workflow
* Clear expectations and the autonomy to manage your own work
* Exposure to the full tender lifecycle, from initial review through to delivery alignment
* Practical, direct feedback focused on improving outcomes - not box-ticking
* A professional team environment where effort and competence are recognised
What We’re Looking For:
* Proven experience in estimating within UK construction or commercial fit-out
* Strong attention to detail and logical, methodical thinking
* Confidence working independently without constant oversight
* Solid Excel skills and comfort working with detailed spreadsheets
* A professional attitude - open to feedback, but not reliant on instruction
* Understanding of construction methods; MEP or joinery exposure is an advantage
* A professional mindset - open to feedback, but not reliant on instruction
This Role Is Not Suitable If:
This role will not be suitable for someone who requires close supervision or step-by-step instruction to complete their work. It is also unlikely to suit individuals who rely solely on historic rates without checking current relevance, avoid taking responsibility for pricing decisions, or struggle to manage their workload, documentation, and deadlines across multiple tenders. Candidates who become defensive when estimates are challenged, rather than discussing issues constructively, or who are specifically seeking a junior, trainee, or heavily supported role will find this environment misaligned.
This is an opportunity to join a well-run SME environment where estimators are expected to carry responsibility, think logically, and contribute professionally from day one.
Apply with your CV for a confidential discussion with Three9s Talent