Senior Estimator

Senior Estimator

Location: Central London

Company: A leading interior fit-out and refurbishment specialist

Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Senior Estimator to join the pre-construction team of an established Main Contractor who deliver a range of projects including Design & Build, Traditional contracting and more. This individual will play a pivotal role in developing high-quality, competitive tenders for fast-paced, design-led fit-out and refurbishment projects — typically ranging up to £20million.

This is a key position within our business, helping us secure and shape future projects while working closely with clients, consultants, and internal stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the preparation of detailed, accurate, and timely cost estimates for Cat A, Cat B, and refurbishment projects.

Develop conceptual budgets from early-stage client briefs or limited design information.

Analyse tender documents, identifying key risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.

Coordinate and manage the tender process, including subcontractor inquiries, clarifications, and reconciliations.

Prepare full Contract Sum Analyses and contribute to commercial strategy for competitive submissions.

Support pre-, mid-, and post-tender interviews and workshops with clients and project stakeholders.

Produce estimate reports detailing costs, contingencies, margins, and programme assumptions.

Collaborate closely with pre-construction, commercial, and project delivery teams to ensure a smooth transition post-award.

Maintain up-to-date records on bid performance, feedback, win rates, and supply chain performance.

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating function.

Support document preparation and presentation materials in conjunction with the marketing and bid teams.

Keep abreast of competitor activity and industry trends to inform pricing and strategy.

Required Skills & Experience

Proven experience in an estimating role within the interior fit-out, refurbishment, or related construction sectors.

Strong working knowledge of D&B, traditional, and two-stage procurement routes.

Demonstrated ability to develop budgets and pricing from early-stage or incomplete design information.

Excellent commercial awareness and established relationships within the subcontractor and supply chain network.

High level of numeracy, accuracy, and attention to detail.

Competence with estimating software (e.g., Evaluate, BidWork, Conquest, or similar platforms).

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present clearly to both internal and external audiences.

A collaborative team player with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.

Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tenders simultaneously while meeting deadlines