Senior Estimator
| Posting date: | 06 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 08 March 2026 |
| Location: | Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 1LZ |
| Company: | Hays Specialist Recruitment |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 4768669_1770370425 |
Summary
Your new company
Well established contractor with a strong history in the sector, with offices across the East and Midlands and projects throughout the UK. They operate across a number of sectors including new build, fit out, maintenance and building services.They pride themselves on developing their staff to grow within the business, which is demonstrated by the tenure amongst the organisation.
Your new role
Reporting into the Director, they require a Senior Estimator who will lead the full estimating function, acting as a key advisor to senior project teams across refurbishment, fit‑out and construction projects.Your responsibilities will include ensuring accurate cost planning, competitive tender submissions, robust commercial strategies, and continual improvement of estimating processes.
You'll work closely with clients and internal teams to understand project requirements and ensure safe, efficient and profitable project delivery.
Duties:
- Lead and manage all activities within the estimating department
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, BOQs and tender submissions
- Review and interpret contract designs, drawings, specifications and associated documentation
- Analyse project plans, materials, and time requirements
- Liaise with clients, agents and on‑site personnel to gather key project data
- Prepare and submit competitive bids and tenders
- Assess project profitability and identify improvements in efficiency
- Identify risks, propose mitigation strategies, and develop value‑engineering options
- Monitor and report on project cost performance
- Prepare valuations and final accounts
- Work with project managers to align estimates with delivery plans
- Support pre‑construction discussions and manage adjustments
- Identify opportunities to improve services and contribute to business development
- Assist with procurement of new clients, suppliers and stakeholders
- Maintain high levels of client satisfaction
- Promote strong Health & Safety practices
- Use bespoke computer systems, Microsoft Office tools and estimating software
- Undertake any additional duties required for the needs of the business
What you'll need to succeed
- Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or similar discipline
- Significant estimating experience within a construction or refurbishment environment
- Strong ability to interpret drawings, specifications and contract documentation
- Excellent technical knowledge of construction methods, materials, regulations and refurbishment constraints
- Commercial awareness, including JCT contracts, procurement and cost control
- Strong leadership, organisational and management skills
- Experience in pre‑construction strategy and good market awareness
- Proficiency with relevant IT systems and estimating software
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays EA is a trading division of Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk