Senior Estimator

SWG Construction (Build & Renovate) Ltd is a well-established and growing regional construction company with a strong track record of delivering high-quality projects across Mid and North Wales and the West Midlands. We work across all sectors with a current turnover in excess of £20 million. Due to continued expansion, we seek an experienced Senior Estimator to join our team and play a key role in our future success.

The Role:

As a Senior Estimator, you will be a vital part of our pre-construction process, responsible for accurately estimating project costs, preparing competitive tenders, and building strong relationships with clients and subcontractors. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of the estimating process for a variety of projects, from inception to handover. While the role offers flexibility with remote working, you will be required to attend the office one or two days per week.

Key Responsibilities:

Tender Management: Thoroughly review and analyse tender documentation, including specifications, drawings, bills of quantities, reports, and contracts (JCT and NEC), ensuring accuracy and completeness.

Cost Estimation: Utilise your expertise to produce accurate cost estimates for various projects. This will involve undertaking detailed on-screen take-offs using Bluebeam (or similar software), producing bills of quantities, and verifying existing measures. You will proficiently use Causeway estimating software to manage cost information, produce detailed costings, and generate accurate tender submissions.

Client and Stakeholder Engagement: Develop and nurture relationships with clients, architects, project managers, and consultants. Collaborate effectively with the bid team to ensure timely and high-quality tender submissions.

Supply Chain Management: Prepare and issue subcontractor enquiries, analyse quotations, and negotiate effectively to secure competitive prices. Maintain strong relationships with our existing supply chain, providing feedback and arranging meetings as required.

Tender Clarifications: Manage and coordinate all tender clarifications, actively participate in tender launch events, and confidently lead settlement adjudication meetings.

Post-Tender Management: Handle post-tender negotiations and clarifications and produce comprehensive handover documentation for successful bids, ensuring a smooth transition to the operations team.

Reporting: Provide essential cost reporting information, including dashboards and forecasts, to monitor project and package tender margins, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to overall business profitability.

Essential Skills and Qualifications:

Proven Experience: A minimum of 5 years experience as a Senior Estimator working for a main contractor within the UK construction industry. You will have a demonstrable track record of successfully estimating a wide range of building projects across various sectors.

Technical Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of construction methods, materials, and best practices is essential. Proficiency in Causeway estimating software and on-screen take-off tools such as Bluebeam is also essential.

Qualifications: A relevant construction qualification (HNC/HND or degree) is highly desirable.

Commercial Acumen: Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills, with a proven ability to interpret tender documents, identify risks, and develop competitive pricing strategies.

Contractual Awareness: Familiarity with JCT and NEC forms of contract.

Organisational Skills: Excellent attention to detail, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team to meet tight deadlines.

IT Literacy: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant construction software.

Driving Licence: Full UK driving licence.

Why Join Us:

Competitive Salary & Benefits: We offer a competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.

Project Variety: Gain valuable experience working on a diverse portfolio of interesting and challenging projects across various sectors.

Career Progression: Excellent opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing company.

Supportive Environment: Join a friendly and supportive team committed to collaboration and mutual success.

Flexible Working: Enjoy a flexible remote working arrangement with the opportunity to work from home and maintain a healthy work-life balance.