Senior Estimator

• 25 days holiday per year, with 24 days reserved for Christmas shutdown
• Discretionary bonus
• Pension scheme, with salary sacrifice option after 3 months and company-matched contributions
• Family-run business with a supportive culture
• Working hours:
  
  8:30 17:00

This established Bedford-based manufacturer designs, manufactures and installs specialist security products for the UK construction industry. Its products include ballistic, blast-resistant and healthcare doors, walls, windows and louvres, used across government, healthcare and critical-infrastructure projects.

The business has a stable team, a practical management style and a supportive working environment. Continued growth has created an opportunity for a Senior Estimator to join its commercial team in Bedford and take the lead on detailed tenders for specialist manufactured products and installation packages.

As Senior Estimator, you will manage tenders from the initial enquiry through to final submission. You will prepare accurate material, labour, manufacturing and installation costs, obtain supplier and subcontractor prices, identify commercial risks and work with sales, production and project teams to build competitive bids. You will also support less experienced estimators and help maintain a consistent approach across the department.

Prepare detailed estimates for specialist manufactured products and installation packages

Review drawings, specifications and tender documents

Build up material, labour, manufacturing and subcontractor costs

Request, compare and negotiate supplier and subcontractor quotations

Lead complex tenders and higher-value pricing submissions

Identify commercial risks, exclusions and value-engineering opportunities

Work closely with sales, production, design and project teams

Keep clear records of estimates, assumptions and bid submissions

Support junior estimators and review work where required

Help improve estimating templates, processes and pricing information

Experience working as a Senior Estimator, or as an Estimator ready to take the next step

A background in construction, manufacturing, subcontracting, roofing, M&E, flooring or another specialist trade

Confident pricing from drawings, specifications and tender documents

Experience preparing detailed cost plans and commercial tender submissions

Good supplier and subcontractor knowledge

Strong Excel skills and experience using estimating software such as Bluebeam or Plan Swift

Knowledge of AutoCAD or similar drawing software would be useful

A clear, organised approach with good commercial awareness

Join an established specialist manufacturer with a strong order book

Take ownership of varied, technically interesting tenders

Work with a supportive management and commercial team

Develop within a growing estimating department

Secure permanent role with a salary of up to £60,000, bonus and pension

Relevant experience may include: Senior Estimator, Construction Estimator, Manufacturing Estimator, Subcontractor Estimator, Cost Estimator, Tendering, Cost Planning, Bluebeam, Plan Swift, AutoCAD, specialist construction, security products, manufacturing and installation.