Role: M&E Estimating Manager
Location: Wickford / Hybrid – must be able to travel to Wickford a minimum of 3 days a week to manage the team.
Reports to: Director
Direct Reports: electrical estimator, mechanical estimator
Core Responsibilities: As the estimating manager, you will lead our estimating function, ensuring compliant, high-quality tenders are produced on time making sure risks and opportunities have been correctly assessed. You will review the tender documentation to ensure that appropriate technical queries are raised and that the cost estimates and bills of quantities produced are competitive and reflective of the works. Upon award of projects, you will ensure a handover pack is produced for the project delivery team.
Analysing the bill of quantities produced by the estimators to ensure they are
Whilst producing bills of materials will be required time to time to support the estimating team, the main function of the role is to oversee the estimating department, chairing internal pre-tender meetings, providing value engineering suggestions, working in line with our design manager, contributing to the company's tendering strategy, improving estimating accuracy and developing cost models for different types of installations an analysing the works produced by the estimators to make sure there are no errors.
The candidate will have a strong technical knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems with excellent detail to attention, commercial awareness and ability to work under pressure.
M&E Estimating Manager
Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced M&E Estimating Manager to lead our mechanical and electrical estimating team. This role is responsible for overseeing the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for building services across a varied portfolio of construction projects. The successful candidate will combine technical expertise with commercial acumen to support our tendering strategy and drive profitability.
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Tendering
- Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates for mechanical and electrical installations including HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, fire protection, and building management systems
- Review tender documentation, drawings, specifications, and contract terms to identify scope, risks, and opportunities
- Produce comprehensive bills of quantities and pricing schedules
- Coordinate bid submissions ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely delivery
- Present estimates and tender strategies to senior management for review and approval
Team Leadership
- Manage and develop a team of M&E estimators, providing guidance, mentoring, and performance feedback
- Allocate workload effectively across the team to meet multiple concurrent tender deadlines
- Foster a collaborative environment that encourages continuous improvement and knowledge sharing
- Recruit and train new estimating staff as the team expands
Commercial Management
- Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and specialist installers to secure competitive pricing
- Negotiate terms and conditions with the supply chain to optimise value
- Conduct market analysis to stay informed of materials pricing, labour rates, and industry trends
- Identify value engineering opportunities and alternative solutions to enhance competitiveness
Strategic Input
- Participate in pre-tender meetings with clients, design teams, and project stakeholders
- Contribute to the company's bid/no-bid decision-making process
- Provide technical and commercial input during the early stages of project development
- Support post-tender negotiations and handover to project delivery teams
- Develop and maintain estimating procedures, templates, and cost databases
Risk & Quality Management
- Identify and assess technical and commercial risks within tender submissions
- Ensure estimates comply with company standards, quality procedures, and health & safety requirements
- Conduct post-project reviews to validate estimating accuracy and capture lessons learned
- Maintain awareness of relevant regulations, codes, and industry standards
Essential Requirements
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Building Services, or related discipline
- Minimum 7-10 years' experience in M&E estimating within the construction industry
- At least 2 years in a management or senior estimating role
- Proven track record of successfully winning competitive tenders
Technical Skills
- Comprehensive knowledge of mechanical and electrical building services systems and installation methods
- Proficiency in estimating software and MS Office suite (particularly Excel)
- Strong understanding of construction contracts (e.g., JCT, NEC) and procurement routes
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and contract documentation
Personal Attributes
- Excellent analytical and numerical skills with high attention to detail
- Strong commercial awareness and business acumen
- Effective leadership and people management capabilities
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Strategic thinker with problem-solving aptitude
What We Offer
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Company vehicle or car allowance
- Pension scheme
- Private healthcare
- Professional development support and CPD opportunities
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service
Reporting Structure
This role reports to the Director and works closely with the Design and Operation Teams
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
Work Location: In person
