Job Description:

Construction Estimator | Building Contractor | Essex | £60,000–£70,000 + Company Car + Benefits

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Construction Estimator to join a long-established, family-run building contractor delivering a diverse range of projects across the commercial, education, healthcare, residential, and refurbishment sectors.

Working directly alongside the Directors, you will take full ownership of tenders from enquiry through to submission, playing a key role in helping shape the future growth and success of the business.

This role would suit an experienced Estimator who enjoys autonomy, wants to be genuinely valued within a smaller business environment, and is looking for a long-term opportunity where their knowledge, commercial input, and experience will carry real influence.

Projects typically range from £50k through to £2m, with a strong pipeline of repeat business and negotiated work across Essex and the surrounding areas.

About the Company

This is a well-established, family-run building contractor with an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality projects across multiple sectors including commercial, education, healthcare, residential, and refurbishment.

The business has built long-standing relationships with clients through reliability, quality of delivery, and a collaborative approach. Known for its supportive and down-to-earth culture, the company offers a stable environment where individuals are trusted, respected, and given genuine responsibility.

Unlike larger contractors where estimators can often feel removed from decision-making, this position offers direct access to senior leadership and the opportunity to play a visible role within the business.

The Role

As Construction Estimator, you will be responsible for managing tenders independently from initial enquiry through to final submission.

You will work closely with the Directors and wider delivery team, helping assess opportunities, manage costs, identify risks, and secure profitable projects aligned with the company’s strengths and long-term strategy.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing accurate, commercially sound, and competitive tenders
• Reviewing drawings, specifications, schedules, and full tender documentation
• Managing subcontractor and supplier enquiries and analysing quotations
• Producing detailed cost plans and pricing breakdowns
• Identifying commercial risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions
• Attending site visits, client meetings, and pre-tender discussions where required
• Managing tender submissions and ensuring deadlines are achieved
• Supporting successful project handovers into delivery teams
• Liaising directly with Directors regarding tender strategy and project selection
• This is a hands-on role where you will be trusted to operate independently and take genuine ownership of the estimating function.

Requirements

• Proven experience working as a Construction Estimator within the building or construction sector
• Experience independently managing tenders from enquiry through to submission
• Strong background pricing projects within sectors such as commercial, education, healthcare, residential, or refurbishment
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and technical documentation
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of construction methods and procurement
• Experience managing subcontractor and supplier enquiries
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
• A proactive and self-sufficient approach with the confidence to work closely with senior stakeholders
• Stable career history and commitment to delivering high-quality work

This role would suit candidates currently working as: Construction Estimator, Building Estimator, Estimator, Senior Estimator, Pre-Construction Estimator, or Quantity Surveyor / Estimator.

Remuneration Package – Construction Estimator

• £60,000–£70,000
• Company Car
• Company Phone and Laptop
• Benefits Package
• Long-Term Career Opportunity
• Supportive and Stable Working Environment

Next Steps

Please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion.

About David Leslie Ltd

David Leslie Ltd is a family-run construction recruitment consultancy with over 20 years’ experience connecting professionals and employers across the UK. Specialising in the Building, Fit-Out, and M&E Building Services sectors, our approach is built on trust, integrity, and long-term partnerships, ensuring both clients and candidates receive a service that is personal, transparent, and expertly delivered.