Mechanical Estimator

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