Mechanical Estimator
Location: Dartford
Salary: DOE
Reporting to: Estimating Director
Overview
An established and growing M&E contractor is seeking an experienced Mechanical Estimator to join its pre-construction team based in Dartford.
This role plays a key part in the tendering and bid process, responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for mechanical building services projects across a variety of sectors. The successful candidate will work closely with the estimating team, supply chain partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure high-quality, competitive tender submissions that support the company’s continued growth.
Key Responsibilities
* Review and analyse tender documentation, drawings, and specifications to understand project scope and requirements.
* Raise and manage Requests for Information (RFIs) with clients and consultants where clarification is required.
* Prepare detailed mechanical take-offs in line with recognised estimating conventions.
* Issue enquiries to supply chain partners and manage responses to ensure competitive pricing.
* Evaluate and compare subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring the most commercially viable options are incorporated into submissions.
* Compile accurate and competitive tender submissions for internal review.
* Prepare cost breakdowns and supporting documentation for internal tender adjudication meetings.
* Present the costing strategy, programme considerations, and risk factors during adjudication.
* Ensure the timely submission of tenders in line with client deadlines.
* Support the handover process to the operations team following successful bids.
Skills & Behaviors
* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify and mitigate project risks.
* Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tenders simultaneously.
* Strong communication and organisational skills, both written and verbal.
* Proactive and solutions-focused with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Confident in assessing alternative systems or approaches that may provide value engineering opportunities for clients.
* Ability to work effectively under pressure and to tight deadlines.
Experience & Qualifications
* Ideally qualified through an apprenticeship, City & Guilds, ONC, or equivalent mechanical engineering qualification.
* Proven experience in a Mechanical Estimator role within an M&E contractor or main contractor’s M&E division.
* Strong understanding of mechanical building services systems and installation processes.
* Demonstrated ability to produce accurate cost estimates and meet strict tender deadlines.
* Experience working on commercial, residential, or mixed-use construction projects would be advantageous