Job Description: Assistant Estimator
Location
Bury St Edmunds, office-based role (not hybrid or remote), with travel across East Anglia, Southeast, and Midlands for site visits
Salary
£30,000–£35,000 per annum plus car allowance
Role Overview
We are seeking an Assistant Estimator with 1–2 years of experience working for a main contractor and a desire to progress into estimating. The successful candidate will support the estimating team in preparing competitive bids for retail and leisure sector projects, including store refurbishments, fit-outs, and hotel extensions or conversions.
The role involves building and maintaining long-term relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers, particularly for framework agreements where a significant portion of work is negotiated.
Key Responsibilities
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Assist in the preparation of competitive cost estimates for retail and leisure projects
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Support senior estimators in reviewing tender documents, drawings, and specifications
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Conduct site visits across East Anglia, Southeast, and Midlands to understand project scope
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Collaborate with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain and review quotations
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Assist in compiling Bills of Quantities (BOQs) and schedules of work
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Support the production of analytical pricing and tender submissions
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Contribute to bid strategy and value engineering discussions
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Maintain accurate records of estimates, supplier pricing, and historical cost data
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Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers
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Attend client and consultant meetings as required
Qualifications & Experience
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1–2 years’ experience in a main contractor environment, ideally with exposure to estimating
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Some experience with commercial, retail, or leisure projects advantageous
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Understanding of construction methods and principles relevant to fit-outs, refurbishments, and conversions
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Familiarity with measurement standards and estimating procedures
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Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
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Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
Personal Attributes
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Ambitious and motivated to progress into a full estimating role
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills
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Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
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Resilient and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
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Client-focused with a professional approach
Benefits
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Competitive salary within the range of £30–35K
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Car allowance
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Standard company benefits for this level