Quantity Surveyor

Senior Estimator – Commercial Construction

Location:

Canning Town, East London
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Sector:
Commercial Construction

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Estimator to join a leading construction contractor delivering complex commercial projects across London and the South East. This role is ideal for a commercially minded estimator with a strong background in reinforced concrete structures and commercial construction, capable of leading the estimating function from initial enquiry through to tender submission.

The successful candidate will play a key role in securing major projects by producing accurate, competitive, and commercially viable estimates while collaborating closely with operational, commercial, and pre-construction teams.

• Lead the preparation and submission of detailed cost estimates and tender proposals for commercial construction projects.
• Review tender documentation, drawings, specifications, and contract requirements to determine project scope and pricing strategy.
• Produce accurate take-offs and cost plans using industry-standard estimating software and methodologies.
• Develop competitive pricing for labour, plant, materials, subcontractors, and specialist packages.
• Obtain and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure best value and compliance with project requirements.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions during the tender process.
• Prepare tender adjudication documents and present commercial recommendations to senior management.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders throughout the pre-construction phase.
• Support bid submissions, contract negotiations, and project handovers to delivery teams.
• Maintain and develop estimating databases, cost benchmarks, and market intelligence.
• Assist in developing tender strategies for complex commercial and reinforced concrete projects.
• Ensure all estimates are prepared in accordance with company procedures and commercial objectives.

• Minimum 7 years’ experience in an Estimating role within the construction industry.
• Proven experience estimating commercial construction projects of varying scale and complexity.
• Strong background in reinforced concrete structures, including frame construction and associated packages.
• Excellent understanding of construction methods, sequencing, and project delivery.
• Experience pricing projects from first principles.
• Strong knowledge of procurement routes, subcontractor engagement, and supply chain management.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and construction documentation.
• Excellent commercial awareness and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Ability to manage multiple tenders and work effectively under tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience working on high-value commercial developments in London.
• Familiarity with JCT and NEC forms of contract.
• Membership of a relevant professional body such as RICS, CIOB, or ICES.
• Experience using estimating software such as Conquest, Causeway, Candy, or similar platforms.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on prestigious commercial developments across London.
• Long-term career progression within a growing and well-established contractor.
• Exposure to complex reinforced concrete and structural projects.
• Collaborative and professional working environment.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Modern office location with excellent transport links in East London.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Senior Estimator seeking to play a key role in securing major commercial construction projects while contributing to the continued growth of a successful and respected contractor.

Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.