Mechanical / M&E Estimator

Location: Office-based (with site visits as required)
Salary: £45,000-£60,000 per year
Job Type: Full-time
Start Date: ASAP (willing to wait for the right candidate)

Role Overview

A growing contractor is seeking an experienced Mechanical or M&E Estimator to join their commercial team. This is a key role supporting tenders across a range of commercial projects, including offices, schools, colleges and schemes involving renewable technologies.

The successful candidate will be responsible for reviewing technical drawings, preparing accurate cost estimates, analysing subcontractor quotations, and supporting the bid process to ensure competitive, compliant tenders are submitted.

Typical project values range from £50,000 to £1,000,000.

Responsibilities

Estimating & Cost Planning

• Produce accurate mechanical or M&E estimates for tenders ranging from £50k-£1m.

• Prepare take-offs, quantities, BOQs and cost schedules from drawings and specifications.

• Review tender documentation and identify commercial and technical risks.

• Develop pricing strategies in line with business targets.

Subcontractor & Supply Chain Management

• Send out and track subcontractor enquiries.

• Analyse, evaluate and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.

• Build strong relationships with supply chain partners to maximise competitive advantage.

Bid Support & Tender Review

• Work closely with the bid team to develop competitive submissions.

• Provide technical and commercial input to strengthen bid strategy.

• Support tender reconciliation, internal sign-off and handover processes.

• Review unsuccessful bids to identify improvements.

Data, Reporting & Systems

• Maintain and update pricing databases, cost histories and estimating tools.

• Produce clear, professional tender summaries and handover documentation.

• Ensure all estimating procedures are followed consistently.

Project & Client Interface

• Liaise with internal teams, project managers and engineers as required.

• Attend occasional site visits to gather information and better understand project scope.

Experience Required

• Proven experience as a Mechanical Estimator or M&E Estimator.

• Strong understanding of mechanical building services, with exposure to electrical where relevant.

• Experience estimating commercial projects (offices, schools, colleges, renewables, etc.).

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.

• Strong analytical and numerical skills with excellent attention to detail.

• Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team.

Qualifications

• Degree or apprenticeship in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Quantity Surveying or Construction (advantageous but not essential).

• Strong competency in Microsoft Excel and industry estimating software.

Benefits

• £45,000-£50,000 salary

• Company pension

• On-site parking

• Career development and progression opportunities within a growing team