Senior Estimator OD

Michael Taylor are delighted to be working alongside a valued client in their search for a Senior Estimator. They are an industry leading main contractor specialising in commercial fit-out and refurbishment projects. We deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions across London and the UK, working closely with clients, architects, and contractors to turn complex designs into reality.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Senior Estimator to lead and manage the estimating function for our commercial project portfolio. You will be responsible for delivering accurate, competitive, and timely cost estimates for projects at pre-construction stages, supporting tender submissions, and working closely with design, procurement, and project delivery teams to ensure cost control and commercial success.

The Senior Estimator will also play a key strategic role in securing new business, managing risk, and driving process improvements within the estimating team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of detailed and conceptual cost estimates (preliminary & detailed) for commercial, fit-out, refurbishment, and design & build projects.
• Analyse architectural, structural, MEP, and interior drawings, specifications, bills of quantities, and project briefs to quantify work elements.
• Price all disciplines (finishes, MEP, joinery, building services, structural works, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC) and prepare trade breakdowns.
• Liaise with subcontractors, specialist contractors, suppliers, and vendors to obtain competitive rates, review quotations, clarify scope, and validate pricing assumptions.
• Assess risk, apply contingencies and allowances, and ensure costs are realistic and resilient.
• Maintain internal cost databases, rate libraries, and historical records to inform estimates and future proposals.
• Collaborate with design, procurement, and project teams to refine design for cost efficiency, value engineering, and constructability input.
• Review tender packages, assumptions, exclusions, and contract terms to ensure clarity and alignment with project risks.
• Present and defend estimates to senior management and clients as required.
• Mentor and support junior estimators and continuously improve estimating processes, tools, and workflows.
• Provide input to bid strategy, margin allocations, and commercial decision-making.
• Monitor market rates, material cost trends, labor rates, supply chain constraints, and inflationary pressures, feeding back into estimating assumptions.
• Assist with post-contract reviews to evaluate estimating accuracy and support project delivery teams.

Requirements & Skills

Essential:

• Proven experience (typically 7+ years) as an estimator in commercial construction, fit-out, interiors, or design & build.
• Strong technical understanding across all disciplines: finishes, building services/MEP, structural, joinery/cabinetry, etc.
• Excellent proficiency in take-off/quantity measurement from drawings/specifications.
• Experience in tendering, subcontractor procurement, negotiation, and commercial assessment.
• Ability to assess risk and apply suitable contingency.
• Familiarity with estimating software and spreadsheets
• Strong analytical, numerical, and financial skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Sound commercial judgment and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple bids concurrently and meet tight deadlines.
• Team leadership and mentoring ability.

Desirable:

• Experience in London/UK commercial fit-out and refurbishment market.
• Understanding of building regulations, sustainability measures, and M&E systems.
• Exposure to integrated design & build projects.
• Professional qualification in Quantity Surveying, Estimating, Construction Management, or relevant discipline.
• Membership of professional bodies (RICS, CIOB, or equivalent).

Reporting & Team Structure

• Reports to the Head of Estimating.
• Will manage or mentor assistant estimators.
• Works closely with commercial, design, procurement, and project delivery teams.