Estimator

St Albans

Up to £95k

I'm representing one of the UK’s most established 5-star housebuilders, known for quality developments, exceptional staff retention, and long-term career progression. With a newly expanded land bank and multiple flagship schemes entering key phases, they are looking to appoint a Senior Estimator to join their commercial team based out of St Albans.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Estimator or high-level Quantity Surveyor looking to take a slightly more strategic, pre-construction-focused role — while remaining fully immersed in the technical and commercial detail of traditional residential development.

About the Role:

You’ll be responsible for managing the full pre-construction estimating function across a range of traditional build housing developments.

Schemes range from 50 to 500 units and consist of 2–5 bed homes and low-rise apartment blocks, delivered through traditional masonry construction methods under NHBC standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop detailed cost plans from initial feasibility through to tender stage Compile accurate land viability assessments to support acquisitions and planning decisions Analyse historical cost data and apply it to new site appraisals and risk profiling Produce BOQs, scope documents, and tender packages for subcontractor procurement Work closely with the Land, Planning, Technical, and Commercial teams during pre-construction phases Support value engineering exercises and advise on build cost efficiencies Ensure clear communication of approved budgets and tender results into the delivery teams Provide input into CVR forecasting, early-stage cashflow modelling, and budget handover packs

Who We’re Looking For:

You’ll have a strong background in residential estimating or senior quantity surveying with deep knowledge of housebuilding materials, construction methodology, and UK Building Regulations. The ideal candidate will be someone looking to apply their commercial acumen in a more strategic, front-end role.

You’ll Need:

Proven experience in low-rise, traditional build housing (2–5 bed homes and apartments) Strong grasp of construction technology, material costs, and subcontractor market rates Excellent understanding of CVRs, budget control, and pre-construction reporting Confident working across multi-disciplinary teams in a fast-paced development cycle Familiarity with estimating software and platforms (e.g. COINS, ConQuest, Excel-based tools)

Why Join?

Work on some of the region’s most exciting flagship schemes, including multi-phase developments of over 1,500 units Join a well-resourced, people-focused business with industry-leading wellbeing initiatives Be part of a high-performing commercial team with clear structure and long-term development opportunities Fantastic pipeline of future work driven by strategic land acquisitions and a strong planning position Competitive base salary + generous benefits, including private healthcare, enhanced pension, wellness support, and more

Interested?

If you're a Senior Estimator or an experienced QS ready to take your career in a more pre-construction-focused direction, I’d love to hear from you. Apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion.