Estimating Manager

Job Description:

Estimating Manager

If you know steel fabrication inside out and enjoy turning complex drawings into smart, commercially sound bids, this could be your next move.

We have an amazing opportunity for an experienced Estimating Manager to take ownership of a key function within a well-established business.

This is a senior, hands-on role with real influence. You’ll lead a small, established estimating team, shape how work is priced and secured, and work closely with projects, contracts, and sales to ensure bids are commercially sound and deliverable.

Although the business operates at scale, the culture remains grounded and people-focused. It’s an inclusive organisation, where relationships matter, experience is respected, and contributions don’t go unnoticed.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll be trusted to take projects from first glance to final submission, using both technical insight and commercial instinct. You’ll also be managing a small, established estimating team, providing guidance, structure, and support while continuing to lead from the front.

Your day to day will include:

• Reviewing technical tender drawings and fully understanding scope, risks, and requirements
• Extracting, quantifying, and pricing materials with accuracy and confidence
• Determining the most efficient fabrication and process routes for each project
• Applying practical experience to estimate labour and process times realistically
• Working closely with the supply chain to confirm robust and competitive cost inputs
• Preparing, issuing, and managing quotations and tender documentation
• Liaising with clients to follow up tenders, answer queries, and help convert bids into secured work
• Maintaining and improving estimating systems, templates, and market price benchmarks
• Coordinating closely with projects, contracts, and sales teams to ensure alignment and smooth delivery

Leadership & team focus

You’ll be responsible for managing, mentoring, and developing a small, capable estimating team. The team is already established, so this isn’t about starting from scratch, it’s about refining processes, sharing knowledge, and creating consistency and confidence across all estimates.

What were looking for

This role suits someone who combines technical credibility with commercial awareness and a natural leadership style. Ideally, you’ll bring:

• Strong, hands-on knowledge of the steel fabrication sector and its supply chain
• A strong understanding of the industry landscape and how work is typically won
• A proactive, organised approach with excellent attention to detail
• Strong numerical and financial skills, backed by sound commercial judgement
• An analytical mindset, able to interpret information quickly and focus on what really matters
• Confidence using IT systems and CRM platforms

What you’ll get

• A senior role with genuine autonomy and influence
• Responsibility for an established team
• A business where people are genuinely valued
• The stability of a large, well-established organisation with the feel of a close-knit team
• The chance to improve systems and processes 
• Long-term career security within a respected business