Trainee Estimator & Commercial Admin — Pricing & Variations

Commercial Administrator / Trainee Estimator
Based in Basildon
Permanent
Office based

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Commercial Administrator / Trainee Estimator to join our commercial team. This role is ideal for someone with experience working with SOR (Schedule of Rates) codes, processing variations, and supporting commercial or estimating functions within a construction, maintenance, or facilities management environment.

The successful candidate will support the commercial and estimating team in pricing works, managing variations, analysing costs, and ensuring accurate commercial administration across projects and contracts.

• Assist with the preparation of estimates, quotations, and cost submissions.
• Process and manage variations in line with client contracts and SOR frameworks.
• Interpret and apply SOR codes accurately across works orders and pricing schedules.
• Support commercial reporting and cost tracking activities.
• Liaise with operational teams, subcontractors, and clients regarding pricing queries and variations.
• Maintain accurate commercial records and documentation.
• Review completed works against schedules and submitted costs.
• Assist in identifying commercial risks and opportunities.
• Ensure all pricing submissions are completed within required timescales.
• Provide administrative support to the commercial and estimating teams as required.

• Previous experience in a commercial administration, estimating, or quantity surveying support role.
• Good understanding of SOR codes and schedule of rates pricing.
• Experience processing variations within construction, repairs, maintenance, or FM contracts.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Experience with in social housing, reactive maintenance, planned works, or construction sectors.
• Knowledge of NHF Schedule of Rates or similar pricing frameworks.
• Understanding of commercial procedures and contract administration.
• Ambition to develop into a fully qualified Estimator or Commercial professional.