Job Description
Mechanical Estimator / Senior Mechanical Estimator Mechanical Building Services M&E Contractor Portsmouth / Hampshire £60,000 £75,000 + Benefits
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Estimator or Senior Mechanical Estimator to join a respected M&E Building Services contractor delivering projects from £200k to £5m across the commercial, office fit-out, healthcare, education, industrial, and leisure sectors.
The company has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality Mechanical Building Services installations including HVAC systems, heating and cooling plant, pipework, public health services, plantroom upgrades, and full M&E refurbishment projects. With a secure pipeline of repeat business and long-standing client relationships, they offer stability, long-term career progression, and a genuinely collaborative working environment.
The Role Mechanical Estimator / Senior Mechanical Estimator
As Mechanical Estimator, you will play a key role within the pre-construction team, taking responsibility for pricing full mechanical building services packages from first principles through to final tender submission using Ensign estimating software.
Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing detailed and competitive tenders for Mechanical Building Services projects
- Pricing full mechanical packages typically ranging from £500k to £6m
- Completing material take-offs, equipment schedules, and labour calculations
- Producing full tender submissions using Ensign estimating software
- Reviewing drawings, specifications, and employer s requirements
- Liaising with suppliers and subcontractors to secure competitive quotations
- Identifying value engineering opportunities and cost-effective technical solutions
- Supporting pre-construction and operational teams throughout the tender process
- Managing multiple tenders and working to deadlines while maintaining commercial accuracy
For Senior level candidates, there is scope to take ownership of larger tenders and support junior estimators where appropriate.
About You
- Previous experience as a Mechanical Estimator, HVAC Estimator, M&E Estimator, or Senior Mechanical Estimator
- Strong background within Mechanical Building Services or M&E contracting
- Strong, hands-on experience using Ensign estimating software is essential, with the ability to produce full tenders independently
- Proven ability to price full mechanical packages up to £5m+
- Excellent technical understanding of HVAC systems, heating and cooling plant, pipework, and associated building services
- Strong commercial awareness and analytical capability
- Ability to interpret drawings and specifications and produce detailed tender returns
- Strong communication and organisational skills
This role requires experience within mechanical installation contracting. Candidates from FM or maintenance-only backgrounds will not be suitable.
Remuneration Package Mechanical Estimator
- Salary: £60,000 £75,000
- Car allowance
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Contributory company pension scheme
- Life cover (death in service)
- Staff helpline and employee wellbeing support
- IT equipment provided
- Reimbursement of authorised work expenses
- Company-funded training and professional development
- Genuine career progression opportunities
Next Steps
If you are an experienced Mechanical Estimator or Senior Mechanical Estimator with strong Ensign experience looking to join a stable, respected Mechanical Building Services contractor offering long-term progression, please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion.
About David Leslie Ltd
David Leslie Ltd is a family-run construction recruitment consultancy with over 20 years experience connecting professionals and employers across the UK. Specialising in the Building, Fit-Out, and M&E Building Services sectors, our approach is built on trust, integrity, and long-term partnerships, ensuring both clients and candidates receive a service that is personal, transparent, and expertly delivered.
