Job Title: Estimator / Senior Estimator
Location: Chester-Le-Street
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Company
I'm working exclusively with a leading UK main contractor delivering award-winning fit-out, refurbishment, and new build projects across a wide range of sectors including retail, leisure, education, logistics, and public sector.
The company is privately owned, part of a well-capitalised construction group, and boasts a turnover of £90 million. It operates two distinct business streams:
* Minor Works Division - projects up to £2M, delivering fast-track refurbishments and rollouts for clients like Tesco, Amazon, and Royal Mail
* Major Projects Division - schemes up to £15M, including new builds and complex developments
Due to continued growth and several recent project wins, they are looking to appoint both an Estimator and a Senior Estimator to join their dynamic pre-construction team.
Role Overview
You'll be joining an experienced commercial function, working on a diverse and challenging range of projects from initial enquiry through to handover. The team is collaborative, methodical, and well-respected by clients for its professionalism and ability to win and deliver quality work.
Whether you're stepping up into a senior role or bringing years of estimating experience to the table, this is a fantastic opportunity to work on nationally recognised schemes with one of the most reputable contractors in the Midlands.
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare competitive, fully costed tenders using first principles
* Develop and maintain supply chain pricing and relationships
* Conduct site visits and produce value-engineered options
* Collaborate with the wider pre-construction, commercial, and delivery teams
* Present bids internally and externally with clear risk analysis
* Mentor junior estimators (Senior level only)
Recent and Ongoing Projects
Here are some recent examples that showcase the variety and scale of work:
* David Lloyd Leisure Centres - Two new £15M health and fitness builds
* Education Sector - £9M school refurbishment and new build projects across the North
* Tesco - Nationwide minor works refurbishments and rollouts
* Amazon & Royal Mail - Distribution facility upgrades and infrastructure enhancements
What We're Looking For
* Estimator: 3+ years of estimating experience
* Senior Estimator: 6+ years' experience and leadership capability
* Solid understanding of construction methods, materials, and building regs
* Ability to read technical drawings and specifications
* Strong communication and numeracy skills
* UK Driving Licence
What's on Offer
* Salary:
* Estimator: Up to £60,000
* Senior Estimator: Up to £75,000
* Car Allowance or Company Vehicle
* 33 Days Holiday (including Bank Holidays), increasing every 3 years
* Private Healthcare
* Pension with increasing employer contributions after 3 years
* Long-term stability with career progression into Pre-Construction Manager or Commercial Lead roles
If you're looking to work with a high-performing contractor on a long-term basis with the support and resources of a £90M business but the agility of a smaller team, I'd love to have a confidential chat