Senior Estimator - Commercial Construction
Location: East London
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Sector: Commercial Construction

About the Role:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Estimator to join a leading construction contractor delivering complex commercial projects across London and the South East. This role is ideal for a commercially minded estimator with a strong background in reinforced concrete structures and commercial construction, capable of leading the estimating function from initial enquiry through to tender submission.

The successful candidate will play a key role in securing major projects by producing accurate, competitive, and commercially viable estimates while collaborating closely with operational, commercial, and pre-construction teams.

Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the preparation and submission of detailed cost estimates and tender proposals for commercial construction projects.
* Review tender documentation, drawings, specifications, and contract requirements to determine project scope and pricing strategy.
* Produce accurate take-offs and cost plans using industry-standard estimating software and methodologies.
* Develop competitive pricing for labour, plant, materials, subcontractors, and specialist packages.
* Obtain and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure best value and compliance with project
requirements:
* Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions during the tender process.
* Prepare tender adjudication documents and present commercial recommendations to senior management.
* Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders throughout the pre-construction phase.
* Support bid submissions, contract negotiations, and project handovers to delivery teams.
* Maintain and develop estimating databases, cost benchmarks, and market intelligence.
* Assist in developing tender strategies for complex commercial and reinforced concrete projects.
* Ensure all estimates are prepared in accordance with company procedures and commercial objectives.

Requirements:
Essential
* Minimum 7 years' experience in an Estimating role within the construction industry.
* Proven experience estimating commercial construction projects of varying scale and complexity.
* Strong background in reinforced concrete structures, including frame construction and associated packages.
* Excellent understanding of construction methods, sequencing, and project delivery.
* Experience pricing projects from first principles.
* Strong knowledge of procurement routes, subcontractor engagement, and supply chain management.
* Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and construction documentation.
* Excellent commercial awareness and attention to detail.
* Strong analytical and numerical skills.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
* Ability to manage multiple tenders and work effectively under tight deadlines.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Desirable:
* Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
* Experience working on high-value commercial developments in London.
* Familiarity with JCT and NEC forms of contract.
* Membership of a relevant professional body such as RICS, CIOB, or ICES.
* Experience using estimating software such as Conquest, Causeway, Candy, or similar platforms.

What's on Offer:
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Opportunity to work on prestigious commercial developments across London.
* Long-term career progression within a growing and well-established contractor.
* Exposure to complex reinforced concrete and structural projects.
* Collaborative and professional working environment.
* Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
* Modern office location with excellent transport links in East London.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Senior Estimator seeking to play a key role in securing major commercial construction projects while contributing to the continued growth of a successful and respected contractor.

Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.