Estimator Lead

Estimating Lead

Location: Mid Kent
Salary: Up to £90k
Hours: Full-time, permanent

We are working with an established and growing construction business that is looking to appoint an experienced Estimating Lead to take ownership of its estimating function and play a key role in its continued development.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys taking responsibility, improving processes and building strong relationships across the construction industry. You will have the autonomy to shape the estimating function, influence commercial decisions and help develop the team as the business continues to grow.

The Role

You will oversee the commercial preparation and delivery of tenders from initial enquiry through to final submission and settlement.

• Taking ownership of the estimating process, ensuring tenders are accurately prepared, competitively priced and submitted within agreed deadlines.
• Producing detailed cost estimates, reviewing pricing information and identifying commercial risks and opportunities.
• Coordinating tender activity, including subcontractor enquiries, pricing schedules and internal reviews.
• Developing and maintaining strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive and reliable tender returns.
• Working closely with pre-construction, commercial, design and operational teams to ensure tender submissions are commercially sound and aligned with project requirements.
• Leading tender reviews and presenting pricing recommendations, assumptions and risk assessments.
• Improving estimating systems, procedures, templates and processes to support greater efficiency and consistency.
• Supporting and mentoring junior estimating team members, with the opportunity to develop the function as the business grows.
• Ensuring a smooth and structured handover to the delivery team following successful contract awards.

About You

We are looking for an experienced construction estimating professional who is confident taking ownership of the tendering process and influencing commercial outcomes.

You will ideally have:

• Proven experience in a senior estimating, estimating management or estimating lead position within the construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of construction pricing, tender preparation and commercial estimating.
• Experience managing multiple tenders and coordinating the full estimating process.
• Excellent relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, with strong negotiation and communication skills.
• The ability to identify commercial risks, challenge costs and make informed pricing recommendations.
• Experience developing estimating processes, systems and procedures.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Previous experience supporting or developing junior members of an estimating team.

The Opportunity

This is more than simply managing an existing estimating workload. It is an opportunity to take genuine ownership of a function, introduce improvements, influence how the business approaches tendering and build something for the long term.

You will have the support and backing of the senior management team, the autonomy to make improvements and the opportunity to play an important part in the future growth of an established construction business.

If you are an experienced construction estimator looking for a role where you can make a real impact, we would be keen to hear from you.