Job Title: Estimator / Senior Estimator
Location: Chester-Le-Street
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

About the Company

Our client is a well-established, fast-growing construction contractor delivering both minor works (up to £2M) and major works (up to £15M) across a broad range of sectors including education, leisure, and commercial. With a £90M annual turnover and a growing pipeline of high-profile projects (including 2* ongoing £9M school refurbishments and 2* £15M leisure centre redevelopments), they are known for consistent delivery, strong financial backing, and a supportive team culture.

The Durham office is a key regional hub with a collaborative, hands-on environment. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced estimator to join a business with real momentum and play a key role in shaping its future in the Northeast.

Role Overview

As Estimator / Senior Estimator, you will lead the pre-construction pricing and tendering process for a variety of refurbishment and new build projects, primarily within the £2M-£15M value range. You'll work closely with pre-construction and operational leads to develop winning tenders and oversee the commercial pipeline from initial enquiry through to submission.

You will also mentor and oversee an Assistant Estimator based in the Durham office, helping to build capability and consistency in the regional estimating function.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and coordinate competitive tenders across minor and major works divisions
Manage and develop pricing strategies, risk registers, and tender programmes
Interpret drawings, specifications, and employer's requirements
Liaise with supply chain to obtain quotations and ensure robust cost coverage
Value-engineer schemes in collaboration with design and operational teams
Attend pre-tender meetings, post-tender negotiations, and handovers
Support and mentor the Assistant Estimator on all aspects of project estimating
Maintain accurate cost databases, tender files, and supplier contacts

What We're Looking For

Minimum 5 years' experience in a construction estimating role (main contractor background preferred)
Experience across both refurbishment and new build projects
Solid understanding of modern construction methods and supply chains
Proven ability to lead tenders independently
Confident communicator and team player with strong commercial acumen
Ideally HNC / HND or Degree qualified in a construction-related field
Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Excel
Full UK driving licence

What's on Offer

Salary: Up to £75,000 (DOE)
Company Car / Allowance
Private Healthcare
Discretionary Bonuses
Pension Scheme - increasing each year after 3 years' service
33 Days Annual Leave (including bank holidays) - increasing every 3 years
Career development within a growing regional team
The opportunity to lead pricing on nationally recognised projects

If you're an experienced estimator looking for a stable, progressive role within a business that values both quality and people, this could be the opportunity for you