Estimator - Main Contractor

Estimator - Main Contractor Southend-on-Sea £40,000 - £60,000 + Benefits We're partnered with a long-established and highly respected Essex-based main contractor delivering commercial, education, healthcare, community, and residential construction projects across Essex and the wider East Anglia region. With over 60 years of successful trading, the business has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality refurbishment, extension, alteration, and new-build schemes while maintaining long-term relationships with clients, consultants, and subcontractors. Unlike heavily corporate contractors, the environment is collaborative, fast-moving, and relationship-driven, giving estimators genuine visibility of projects from initial enquiry through to contract award. This is an excellent opportunity for a capable Estimator who wants broad project exposure, greater responsibility, and a clear route toward senior pre-construction or commercial positions. The Opportunity Working closely with the Commercial Manager, operational teams, and directors, you'll play a key role in the preparation and submission of competitive tenders across a varied portfolio of refurbishment and construction projects. You'll be trusted to take ownership of tenders, contribute to pricing strategy, and help secure future work across multiple sectors. What You'll Be Doing Preparing detailed quantity take-offs from drawings and specifications Producing accurate cost estimates for refurbishment, alteration, extension, and new-build projects Preparing and submitting competitive tender returns Reviewing drawings, specifications, and tender documentation Sending enquiries to subcontractors and suppliers Obtaining, analysing, and comparing subcontractor and supplier quotations Building up rates and pricing schedules Identifying value engineering opportunities and cost-saving options Assisting with tender adjudications and commercial reviews Maintaining ac