About Us
City Gate Construction is a privately owned main contractor established in 2003, delivering construction, refurbishment and maintenance services across Scotland and England. Headquartered in Paisley, we have built a strong reputation for quality, reliability and customer service, supported by a skilled in-house workforce, a collaborative culture and a commitment to continuous improvement. With experience across both public and private sectors, we continue to grow our project portfolio and are looking to strengthen our commercial team with the appointment of an experienced Senior Estimator.
The Role
We are seeking a proactive and commercially astute Senior Estimator to join our commercial team in Paisley. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced construction professional to play a key role in securing profitable new business across a range of construction, refurbishment and maintenance projects. You will lead the estimating process from initial enquiry through to final submission, working closely with internal stakeholders, subcontractors and suppliers to produce accurate, competitive and well-considered tenders. As a senior member of the team, you will also contribute to estimating strategy, mentor junior colleagues where appropriate, and help drive continuous improvement across the function.
A key part of the role is aligning with the business strategy of being disciplined and selective in our approach to bidding. Identifying and prioritising bid opportunities that are commercially viable, operationally deliverable and aligned with the company’s strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates and tender submissions for construction and refurbishment projects
* Oversee the Maintenance Estimators, developing key strategies and policies
* Review tender enquiries, drawings, specifications and contract documentation to identify scope, risks and commercial opportunities
* Obtain, evaluate and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure best value and robust pricing
* Work closely with operational, commercial and technical teams to develop practical, competitive and profitable tender solutions
* Attend site visits, pre-tender meetings and internal review meetings as required
* Prepare cost plans, tender analyses, value engineering options and tender adjudication documents for Commercial Director review
* Support handover of successful tenders to delivery teams, ensuring key assumptions and risks are clearly communicated
* Contribute to the development of estimating systems, cost databases and best practice processes
* Provide guidance and support to less experienced estimating team members where appropriate
Skills / Experience
* Proven experience in a senior estimating role within construction, refurbishment or maintenance
* Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, sequencing and project delivery considerations
* Ability to interpret drawings, specifications and tender documentation with accuracy and commercial awareness
* Experience in managing multiple tenders and working to deadlines in a fast-paced environment
* Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail
* Confident in liaising with subcontractors, suppliers, clients and internal teams
* Good knowledge of market rates, procurement approaches and value engineering principles
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant estimating software
* Excellent communication and organisational skills with a collaborative and proactive approach
* Relevant construction qualification preferred but not essential for candidates with strong practical experience
What We Offer
* Competitive salary, dependent on experience
* Annual bonus scheme
* Company pension
* Ongoing training and development opportunities
* Long service awards
* Staff perks and employee benefits
* Opportunity to join a growing business with a strong pipeline of work and a supportive team environment
If you are an experienced estimator looking to take the next step in your career with a well-established and ambitious contractor, we would like to hear from you.
We welcome applications from all, as we are an Equal Opportunities Employer and a socially and environmentally responsible company