Trainee Estimator

Job Description:

Trainee Estimator – Excellent Career Progression

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a Trainee Estimator to join a growing construction and fit‑out contractor. This role is perfect for someone looking to build a long‑term estimating career in a fast‑paced environment, supported by experienced professionals and clear development pathways.

You’ll work with well‑known national clients across retail, commercial and fit‑out sectors, gaining exposure to a wide variety of projects while developing your technical and commercial skills.

The Role

As a Trainee Estimator, you’ll play a key part in preparing and pricing tenders, building strong subcontractor relationships, and ensuring tender submissions are accurate, competitive and delivered on time. You’ll take ownership of specific trade packages and contribute directly to successful project wins.

Key Responsibilities

Preparing and pricing tenders

Creating subcontractor bid packages and ensuring strong coverage

Negotiating improved pricing using creativity and commercial awareness

Reviewing tender documents and raising follow‑up queries

Producing RFIs and clarifications to improve accuracy

Completing detailed tender analysis for internal review

Building bid lists aligned to project scope

Liaising with clients and subcontractors to minimise exclusions

Suggesting value‑engineering options

Reviewing drawings with the Project Team and identifying potential issues

Managing lead times and ensuring suppliers meet programme dates

Sourcing and qualifying new subcontractors and suppliers

Maintaining strong subcontractor relationships

Working collaboratively with QS, Project Management, HSQE, Buying and Accounts teams

Ensuring all bids and budgets are submitted 100% on time

Double‑checking all deliverables to minimise errors

Following established estimating processes and procedures

Taking off dimensions using Bluebeam and populating BOQs

Setting up tender folders and maintaining accurate documentation

Working flexibly during peak tender periods to meet deadlines

Person Specification

Essential:

• Qualified to A‑Level standard or above
• GCSE Maths grade C or higher
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong IT skills
• Keen interest in building a professional career in construction

Desirable:

• Previous experience as a Junior/Trainee/Assistant Estimator
• Experience within UK construction (main contractor or subcontractor)
• Familiarity with tender processes and/or Bluebeam
• Understanding of construction trades and scope interpretation

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary
• Clear career progression and professional development
• Mentoring from experienced project and commercial teams
• Supportive, collaborative and inclusive working environment
• 25 days holiday (+ public holidays), rising with service
• Death in Service benefit
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Auto‑enrolment pension
• Refer‑a‑friend bonus
• Regular social events including summer and Christmas celebrations

If you’re ambitious, detail‑driven and ready to take the next step in your estimating career, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Sally Whittingham or apply online.