My Shortlist

Your shortlisted jobs will appear here. To view your shortlist: Login Or Register

Date Added: Mon 23/03/2026

Technical Estimator

Reading, UK
Apply Now

Company: GIBSON SEARCH

Job Type: Permanent, FullTime

Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 per annum

We are looking for a Technical Estimator with strong technical and drawing based experience, ideally qualified as Structural Engineer or Architect to join this niche business, who deliver some of the most challenging and intricate projects across the Architectural, Interiors, and Heritage building sectors - working here provides exposure to some of the most prestigious and technically demanding projects in the UK & Europe.

The Opportunity

As Technical Estimator, you will have the opportunity to transition from a technical design background into a commercial role, supporting the intersection of design, engineering, and commercial decision-making, delivering the estimating process for complex, bespoke construction packages. A deep understanding of drawings, details, materials, and construction methodology is fundamental to success in this position.

Key Responsibilities of the Technical Estimator

Technical & Design-Led Estimating

  • Prepare technically robust estimates for complex architectural and interior projects
  • Carry out detailed drawing take-offs from architectural, structural, and specialist design packages
  • Interrogate drawings and specifications to fully understand design intent, buildability, tolerances, interfaces, and sequencing
  • Identify technical risks, assumptions, exclusions, and opportunities at tender stage
  • Engage in early-stage design development, providing cost and buildability feedback

Commercial & Analytical

  • Develop accurate cost plans, bills of quantities, and tender submissions
  • Build and maintain sophisticated Excel-based estimating models and cost databases
  • Analyse supplier and subcontractor quotations, ensuring technical and commercial alignment
  • Support value engineering exercises without compromising design integrity or craftsmanship
  • Contribute to commercial strategy and tender negotiations

Qualifications & Experience of the Technical Estimator

  • Degree-qualified Civil / Structural Engineering, or a related discipline
  • Strong experience working with construction drawings, technical detailing, and specifications.
  • Proven ability to undertake detailed and accurate quantity take-offs
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for cost modelling and data analysis
  • Strong understanding of construction methodologies and materials
  • Excellent technical judgement and problem-solving skills
  • Familiarity with bespoke or design-led construction environments

Ideal Candidate Profile for the Technical Estimator

  • Technically minded and detail-driven, with a strong grounding in drawings and design
  • Commercially curious and motivated to develop a long-term career in estimating and commercial management
  • Comfortable challenging design information constructively to improve buildability and cost certainty
  • Organised, analytical, and confident working with complex technical information
  • Values craftsmanship, quality, and precision.

If you have not received a response within 5 working days, then you have not been successful on this occasion.

Gibson Search acting as an Employment Agency.

Apply Now