Senior Construction Estimator – | £55k–£65k | Rayleigh
About Us
We’re a general building company with over a decade of experience, known for delivering quality across a broad range of projects. Our core focus is commercial construction, with project values typically ranging from £10,000 to £1.5 million. We operate as both a subcontractor and main contractor.
We’re now entering a period of growth, aiming to significantly expand our main contractor portfolio and triple the overall value of our projects over the coming years.
What sets us apart is our consistency, honesty, and hands-on approach. We’ve built long-standing relationships with clients based on trust—and this role will play a key part in strengthening and developing those partnerships. We directly employ our own construction teams and work alongside a trusted network of subcontractors.
Our projects span sectors such as rail, MoD, healthcare, and major insurance reinstatement works, with an increasing focus on government-funded schemes.
The Role
We’re looking for a Senior Construction Estimator who’s ready to do more than just price work—we want someone who can help shape our growth. You’ll lead the preparation of accurate, competitive tenders for projects in the £1M to £4M range, working closely with project managers, subcontractors, and clients to make sure every detail is considered.
We’re also looking for someone who’s happy to roll their sleeves up and get involved in improving our internal systems and processes. As we scale, the way we work needs to scale with us and your experience will be invaluable in refining what works and improving what doesn’t.
If you're someone who enjoys problem-solving, shaping systems, and being part of a close-knit team, you'll feel right at home here. Ideally, you’ll come from a main contractor background, be confident across all stages of the estimating process, and be comfortable working on a wide range of project types.
Key Responsibilities
* Review tender documentation in depth and collaborate with internal teams to gain a clear understanding of the project scope.
* Analyse project drawings, specifications, and plans to ensure all elements required for tendering are accounted for.
* Producing bill of quantities from outline specifications.
* Liaise with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive quotations and build robust, well-supported cost plans.
* Prepare detailed, accurate cost estimates for projects across a range of sectors, with a strong focus on value engineering and cost-effective solutions.
* Produce clear and comprehensive tender submissions, and present cost estimates with confidence to senior management.
* Participate in pre- and post-tender meetings, offering insight into all cost-related matters.
* Produce and compile project handover information for site teams and project managers, including cost summaries, templates, and documentation to support delivery and performance tracking.
* Support project teams in monitoring and managing costs during the construction phase, ensuring budgets are maintained and financial goals met.
* Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers throughout both the tender and delivery phases.
* Monitor market trends and material costs to ensure estimates remain competitive and realistic.
* Contribute to improving and developing internal processes, systems, and templates to enhance overall efficiency.
Essential Skills and Experience
A proven background in estimating within the construction industry, ideally with experience working for a main contractor on commercial projects
Solid hands-on knowledge of UK construction practices, including current building regulations and health & safety standards.
Experience preparing cost estimates for projects in the £1M–£5M range, with a strong commercial awareness.
Skilled in using digital take-off tools such as Bluebeam (or equivalent software) to extract and quantify from drawings efficiently.
Competent with industry software and Microsoft Office, especially Excel, for creating and managing cost plans.
Able to juggle multiple tenders at different stages while working to strict deadlines and maintaining accuracy.
Confident communicator with a collaborative approach—comfortable working with clients, suppliers, and internal teams.
Holds a relevant qualification such as a degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or has equivalent practical experience.
A sharp eye for detail combined with a proactive, solution-focused mindset—someone who takes pride in doing things right the first time.
Job Type:
Permanent, Full-time
Salary Range:
£55,000.00 – £65,000.00 per annum (depending on experience)
Possible Perks & Benefits:
Company pension scheme
Private healthcare cover
Company vehicle
Working Hours:
Monday to Friday
Standard daytime hours
Location & Travel Requirements:
Based Rayleigh – applicants must be able to commute reliably or be prepared to relocate prior to the start date.
Qualifications – Education:
Bachelor's degree desirable, but not essential
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years in a dedicated estimating role (required)
Licences/Certifications:
Full UK Driving Licence (required)
Right to Work:
Must have legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom
Work Environment:
On-site / Office-based role
Reference: