Estimator

As an Estimator at Bridges, your primary responsibility involves analyzing project drawings, specifications, and documents to prepare accurate cost estimates for MIECA Engineering projects. You will attend site visits to conduct surveys and produce detailed quotations while ensuring compliance with client specifications. Communicating effectively with both internal and external stakeholders is essential as you support the business in winning and maintaining profitable work.

To be considered for the Estimator role at Bridges, you should ideally have a solid background in mechanical and electrical engineering. An engineering qualification in these fields is highly desirable. Additionally, experience within the water industry, knowledge of Principal Contractor responsibilities under CDM regulations, and familiarity with control panels & MCCs will enhance your application and effectiveness in this role.

Bridges offers a vibrant and supportive working environment for Estimators, characterized by a hybrid working model that allows some flexibility. You will primarily work from our Maidstone office but are expected to attend site visits and client meetings as needed. We prioritize the health and safety of our team members, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and engaged.

Bridges provides a comprehensive benefits package for Estimators, which includes competitive salaries, a company car allowance based on the role, and a health cash plan. You'll have access to a pension scheme with a 5% company contribution, life assurance, and an employee discount scheme. Additionally, we offer ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement within our friendly and welcoming family-run culture.

At Bridges, we are committed to supporting career development for our Estimators through robust training and development opportunities. We value mutual engagement and aim to invest in our team members' growth and success. Whether it's on-the-job training, mentorship, or involvement in diverse projects, we provide you with the tools needed to progress in your career and achieve personal milestones.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects where you analyzed drawings and specifications to prepare accurate cost estimates. Discuss your methodology, any software you used, and how you ensured that estimates aligned with client expectations.

Your response should touch on the importance of details in project specifications. Explain your process for reviewing drawings and documents, what details you look for, and how you leverage that information to produce your estimates.

Discuss your approach to balancing competitive pricing and profitability. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully negotiated with suppliers or optimized resources to enhance margins without compromising quality.

Share your understanding of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations and how they influence project planning and execution. Discuss any direct experiences you have in ensuring compliance with these regulations during your cost estimation process.

Select a specific challenge related to estimating, like fluctuating material costs or tight deadlines. Outline the steps you took to address the challenge and what the outcomes were. Focus on your analytical skills and how you collaborated with stakeholders.

Communication is key in estimating roles. Discuss how you tailor your communication style based on your audience, using clear and concise reporting methods, visuals, or summaries to effectively convey complex data to ensure everyone understands and is aligned.

Mention specific estimating software you are proficient in, such as Microsoft Excel, or specialized estimating tools. Discuss how these tools have helped you improve accuracy and efficiency in your estimating processes.

Highlight your commitment to ongoing learning through industry publications, online courses, and networking opportunities. Discuss any relevant industry events or communities you engage with to stay informed about the latest trends that affect your estimating practices.

Here, express your belief in the importance of attention to detail combined with strong analytical skills. Emphasize how these qualities allow an Estimator to produce reliable and accurate estimates, which in turn fosters trust and credibility with clients.

Share your enthusiasm for Bridges’ commitment to employee well-being and career development. Mention how the company’s values align with your personal goals, and express a desire to contribute to innovative projects that impact communities across the UK.