Junior / Assistant Mechanical Estimator | M&E Building Services | Southampton Area | £35,000 £48,000 + Training + Career Progression This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious Junior Mechanical Estimator or Assistant Mechanical Estimator to join a respected M&E Building Services contractor delivering projects from £100k to £5m, offering structured training and a clear pathway into a fully-fledged Mechanical Estimator role.

Want to apply Read all the information about this position below, then hit the apply button. About the Company The company is a well-established M&E Building Services contractor delivering mechanical and electrical installations across commercial, healthcare, education, industrial, leisure, and public sector environments. Known for their technical capability and consistent project delivery, they have built strong long-term relationships with clients across the South Coast and surrounding regions. Pre-construction is a key function within the organisation, and the business is committed to developing future talent within its estimating team. This role offers structured mentoring, hands-on training, and exposure to a wide variety of building services projects, providing an excellent foundation for a long-term career in estimating. The Role As Junior / Assistant Mechanical Estimator, you will support the pre-construction team in preparing mechanical building services tenders while developing a full understanding of the estimating process. You will assist in pricing mechanical packages including HVAC systems, plantrooms, heating systems, ventilation, chilled water systems, pipework, and public health installations across a varied portfolio of projects. Projects typically range from £100k through to larger multi-million-pound installations across sectors such as commercial, healthcare, education, industrial, and fit-out. Working closely with experienced estimators, project managers, and directors, you will gain exposure to the full tender lifecycle. This includes reviewing tender documentation, interpreting drawings and specifications, analysing supplier quotations, and supporting the preparation of commercially robust tender submissions. As your experience develops, you will take on increasing responsibility, with a clear pathway towards managing your own tenders. This role would suit candidates currently working as: Junior Mechanical Estimator, Assistant Mechanical Estimator, Mechanical Estimating Assistant, Mechanical Building Services Engineer, Graduate Mechanical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, or individuals seeking to transition into an estimating role within M&E Building Services. Key Responsibilities Assisting in the preparation of mechanical building services tenders from drawings and specifications Supporting take-offs and measurements from mechanical drawings Pricing HVAC systems, heating, ventilation, pipework, plantrooms, and public health services Obtaining and reviewing supplier and subcontractor quotations Supporting cost planning and tender submissions Assisting with internal tender reviews and commercial discussions Supporting project handover documentation following successful tenders About You Mechanical Building Services background or exposure (preferred) Basic understanding of HVAC, pipework, and mechanical systems Strong numeracy and attention to detail Ambitious and motivated to build a long-term career in estimating Comfortable working in an office-based environment Experience using estimating software such as Ensign would be advantageous but not essential. Candidates with some exposure to building services projects across sectors such as commercial, healthcare, education, industrial, or fit-out will be well suited. Engineers or mechanically biased individuals looking to transition into an office-based estimating role are encouraged to apply. Full training and mentorship will be provided. Remuneration Package Junior Mechanical Estimator £35,000 £48,000 Company Pension 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays Structured Training and Career Development Long-Term Progression into Mechanical Estimator Next Steps Please apply online today, or contact Rob at David Leslie Ltd for an informal and confidential discussion. xehkeey 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.