Mechanical Estimator

Location: Dartford Salary: DOE Reporting to: Estimating Director

Overview

An established and growing M&E contractor is seeking an experienced Mechanical Estimator to join its pre-construction team based in Dartford.

This role plays a key part in the tendering and bid process, responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for mechanical building services projects across a variety of sectors. The successful candidate will work closely with the estimating team, supply chain partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure high-quality, competitive tender submissions that support the company’s continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

* Review and analyse tender documentation, drawings, and specifications to understand project scope and requirements.

* Raise and manage Requests for Information (RFIs) with clients and consultants where clarification is required.

* Prepare detailed mechanical take-offs in line with recognised estimating conventions.

* Issue enquiries to supply chain partners and manage responses to ensure competitive pricing.

* Evaluate and compare subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring the most commercially viable options are incorporated into submissions.

* Compile accurate and competitive tender submissions for internal review.

* Prepare cost breakdowns and supporting documentation for internal tender adjudication meetings.

* Present the costing strategy, programme considerations, and risk factors during adjudication.

* Ensure the timely submission of tenders in line with client deadlines.

* Support the handover process to the operations team following successful bids.

Skills & Behaviors

* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify and mitigate project risks.

* Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tenders simultaneously.

* Strong communication and organisational skills, both written and verbal.

* Proactive and solutions-focused with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

* Confident in assessing alternative systems or approaches that may provide value engineering opportunities for clients.

* Ability to work effectively under pressure and to tight deadlines.

Experience & Qualifications

* Ideally qualified through an apprenticeship, City & Guilds, ONC, or equivalent mechanical engineering qualification.

* Proven experience in a Mechanical Estimator role within an M&E contractor or main contractor’s M&E division.

* Strong understanding of mechanical building services systems and installation processes.

* Demonstrated ability to produce accurate cost estimates and meet strict tender deadlines.

* Experience working on commercial, residential, or mixed-use construction projects would be advantageous