Senior Estimator

Role Profile

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Estimator to join our Preconstruction team in London. This role will be responsible for leading on aspects of cost estimation, with a particular focus on the Pre-Bid phase. Ideally you'll possess a solid understanding of construction process, market pricing, and value engineering, enabling the team to develop accurate and competitive estimates from conceptual design through to detailed tender. This role requires strong analytical abilities, exceptional communication skills, and a proactive approach to risk identification and mitigation.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Pre-Construction Estimating: Develop detailed and accurate cost estimates from conceptual design to tender stage, often with limited information, for a diverse range of commercial interior fit-out and construction projects.

• Feasibility and Budgeting: Conduct feasibility studies and develop initial project budgets, providing critical financial insights to clients and internal teams during the early project stages.

• Value Engineering: Proactively identify and propose value engineering opportunities to optimize project costs without compromising design intent or quality.

• Risk Assessment: Identify potential cost risks and opportunities during the pre-construction phase, developing strategies for mitigation and contingency planning.

• Market Intelligence: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current market conditions, material costs, labour rates, and subcontractor pricing in the London and wider UK construction market.

• Tender Management: Oversee the tender process, including preparing tender documents, evaluating bids from subcontractors and suppliers, and negotiating optimal pricing.

• Collaboration: Work closely with design teams, project managers, clients, and subcontractors to ensure alignment on project scope, specifications, and cost objectives from project inception.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive cost reports, analyses, and presentations for internal stakeholders and clients, clearly articulating cost drivers and assumptions.

• Process Improvement: Continuously review and improve estimation processes, tools, and databases to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

Experience you'll need:

• Proven experience (minimum 5+ years) in construction estimating, with a significant portion dedicated to estimating for commercial projects, ideally within fit-out or commercial building sectors.

• Demonstrable experience in developing conceptual estimates, budget estimates, and detailed tenders from various stages of design.

• Strong understanding of construction contracts, procurement methods, and UK building regulations.

• Proficiency in estimation software (e.g., CostX, Bluebeam, or similar).

• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.

• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation abilities.

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.

• Ideally you'll also have experience within the Design & Build sector, working on Commercial or Office interiors.

What We Offer:
In return, you will receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well-being. While we do support Hybrid and Flexible working where possible, there will be a requirement to be in our London Studio to collaborate with the team on a regular basis.

Join Us:

If you are passionate about joining Unispace and contributing to some of the world’s most recognisable commercial design projects, then please apply through our careers page.