senior mechanical estimator.

The Mechanical Estimator prepares accurate and competitive tenders for mechanical and electrical construction work. Using technical expertise, current market rates, and sound commercial judgement, the role develops robust cost plans that reflect project scope, complexity, risk, and required margins. The Estimator manages each agreed tender from initial enquiry through submission and supports a complete handover to the delivery team when a bid is successful.

Key responsibilities

Prepare detailed project estimates using tender objectives, scope information, profit and loss analysis, drawings, specifications, and material take-offs.

Assess project complexity, variables, and risks, applying appropriate contingencies and allowances where information is uncertain.

Obtain package estimates from specialist subcontractors and review submissions for accuracy, completeness, competitiveness, and compliance with the scope of work.

Establish current market rates before quotations are received and price work elements from first principles where appropriate.

Benchmark estimates against historical performance, agreed key performance indicators, and relevant market data.

Ensure every tender includes the full scope of work, identifies material risks, and supports the required commercial margin.

Organise tender launch, review, and adjudication meetings, ensuring complete documentation is available in sufficient time.

Support bid analysis and contract negotiations in collaboration with commercial, finance, estimating, and operational leaders.

For successful tenders, prepare a detailed cost plan and deliver a clear, complete handover to the project team.

Maintain accurate commercial records and comply with data-protection requirements and company procedures.

Accountability

Working within the estimating team, the postholder is accountable for producing complete and commercially sound tenders for opportunities the business has agreed to pursue. Estimates must clearly address scope, cost, risk, programme considerations, and margin expectations from enquiry through submission.

Knowledge and experience

At least five years' experience in a similar estimating role within the construction industry, ideally with a mechanical contractor.

Strong knowledge of mechanical specifications, systems, materials, construction methods, and M&E design principles.

Ability to interpret preliminaries, specifications, drawings, schedules of work, bills of quantities, and contract documents.

Experience preparing quantity and material take-offs from drawings.

Experience in fast-paced commercial fit-out environments is desirable but not essential.

Technical and behavioural skills

Strong numerical, analytical, and commercial reporting skills.

Confident use of common office software, including word-processing and spreadsheet applications.

Clear written and verbal communication, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships.

Sound negotiation, risk-identification, and practical problem-solving skills.

Ability to plan, prioritise, and manage competing deadlines while maintaining accuracy under pressure.

Able to work independently and contribute effectively as part of a team.

Proactive and accountable approach to tender development and decision-making.

Qualifications

GCSEs or equivalent, including English and mathematics.

A BTEC or equivalent approved qualification in construction, civil engineering, or a related discipline.

A degree or equivalent qualification in construction management, civil engineering, or a related discipline is desirable but not essential.

Professional chartership is beneficial but not essential.