Trainee Estimator

Trainee Estimator / Assistant Estimator

Are you the right applicant for this opportunity? Find out by reading through the role overview below.

Redruth | Permanent | Full-Time

£25,000 - £28,000 + Training + Career Progression

Are you looking to build a long‑term career in construction estimating?

We are working with one of the South West's leading Groundworks and Civil Engineering Contractors to recruit a Trainee Estimator for their Head Office in Cornwall.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious individual looking to develop a career within estimating and pre‑construction. Joining an experienced and supportive commercial team, you'll receive hands‑on training and mentoring, gaining exposure to a wide range of groundworks, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects across the South West.

Whether you're a recent construction graduate, have completed an HNC/HND in Construction, or have some previous estimating experience, this role offers a genuine pathway for career progression within a growing and successful business.

Reporting into the Estimating Team, you will assist in the preparation of competitive tenders and cost estimates for groundworks and civil engineering projects, supporting the full tender process from enquiry through to submission.

• Assist with the preparation of cost estimates for groundworks, infrastructure, and civil engineering packages
• Analyse drawings, specifications, and tender documentation
• Support the production of Bills of Quantities and take‑offs
• Obtain and review quotations from suppliers and subcontractors
• Assist with tender administration and submission documentation
• Maintain accurate tender records and estimating databases
• Attend site visits, pre‑tender meetings, and tender interviews where required
• Liaise with clients, suppliers, subcontractors, and internal departments
• Support the Estimating team with cost planning and bid preparation
• Develop an understanding of construction methodologies, pricing, and commercial processes

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual who is eager to learn and develop a career within construction estimating.

• HNC, HND, Degree, or equivalent qualification in Construction, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline
• Excellent IT skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel
• Strong numerical and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities
• High attention to detail
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

• Previous experience within estimating, quantity surveying, construction administration, or a similar role
• Groundworks, civil engineering, house building, or construction industry experience
• Knowledge of tendering processes and construction contracts

• Salary £25,000 - £28,000 depending on experience and qualifications
• Full training and mentoring from experienced estimators
• Clear career progression opportunities
• Exposure to major groundworks and civil engineering projects
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Long‑term career development within a successful and growing business
• Opportunity to progress into Estimator and Senior Estimator positions

As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under‑represented communities. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we’ll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience. We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive, collaborative workplaces — regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or background.