Job Description:

Mechanical Estimator | M&E Building Services | South Coast | £65,000–£75,000 + Car Allowance + Bonus + Excellent Benefits

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Estimator to join a respected M&E Building Services contractor delivering technically challenging projects across the commercial, fast-track office fit-out, healthcare, education, industrial, and leisure sectors.

The business has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality mechanical installations and is known for its collaborative culture, technical expertise, and long-standing client relationships. With a secure pipeline of repeat business and continued growth, they are now looking to strengthen their pre-construction team with an estimator capable of taking ownership of tenders from enquiry through to final submission.

Projects typically include full mechanical packages such as HVAC systems, heating and cooling plant, ventilation, pipework, public health services, and plantroom installations, predominantly across commercial and office fit-out environments, alongside selected healthcare and education projects. Project values typically range from £500k to £6m.

This role offers genuine responsibility and visibility within the business, with the successful candidate playing a key role in securing future projects and supporting the company’s continued growth.

The Role – Mechanical Estimator

As Mechanical Estimator, you will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive tenders for mechanical building services projects, pricing full mechanical packages from first principles through to final submission using Ensign estimating software.

You will be involved throughout the pre-construction process, working closely with internal teams, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure commercially sound and technically robust tenders.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing detailed and competitive tenders for mechanical building services projects
• Producing take-offs, equipment schedules, and labour calculations
• Compiling complete tender submissions using Ensign estimating software
• Reviewing drawings, specifications, and employer’s requirements
• Liaising with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain accurate quotations
• Identifying value engineering opportunities and cost-effective solutions
• Managing multiple tenders and meeting deadlines while maintaining accuracy
• Working closely with operational and delivery teams throughout the pre-construction process

Candidate Requirements

The successful candidate will have a strong background in Mechanical Building Services estimating and will be confident producing full tenders independently.

• Experience as a Mechanical Estimator, HVAC Estimator, M&E Estimator, Mechanical Building Services Estimator, or Mechanical Pre-Construction Estimator
• Strong background within M&E or Mechanical Building Services contracting
• Proven experience using Ensign estimating software
• Experience pricing mechanical packages up to £4m+
• Strong technical understanding of HVAC systems, plant, pipework, and associated services
• Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills
• Ability to interpret drawings and specifications and produce detailed tenders
• Strong organisational and communication skills

This role requires proven experience pricing mechanical installation projects within M&E Building Services contracting environments. Candidates from FM, maintenance, or service-only backgrounds will not be suitable.

We are looking for individuals with a stable career history who can demonstrate consistent delivery within estimating roles.

Remuneration Package – Mechanical Estimator

• £65,000–£75,000
• Car Allowance
• Annual Company Bonus Scheme (Paid Year on Year)
• Company Pension Scheme
• Life Cover (Death in Service)
• Employee Wellbeing Support
• Company-Funded Training and Development
• Genuine Career Progression Opportunities
• Additional Benefits

This role would suit candidates currently working as:

Mechanical Estimator, HVAC Estimator, M&E Estimator, Mechanical Building Services Estimator, Mechanical Pre-Construction Estimator, Senior Mechanical Estimator.

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.