Estimator
Estimators work out how much the different parts of an engineering or construction project will cost.
Also known as: Cost engineer, construction estimator, cost planner
- Starter salary£22,000 a year
- Experienced£40,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 40 a week
- Green jobPotential
What you'll do
As an estimator, you'll:
- research the cost of materials, equipment, transport and labour
- use planning and scheduling software to estimate timescales
- assess the levels of risk on a project
- prepare quotes and cost summaries for senior managers
- help with bids for new contracts and support buying activities
- monitor projects to make sure costs are kept in line with forecasts
Working environment
You could work in an office or on a construction site.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- maths knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- excellent written communication skills
- knowledge of building and construction
- business management skills
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a estimator
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You could do a higher national diploma or degree before starting work. Relevant subjects include:
- structural engineering
- civil engineering
- construction management
- quantity surveying
Courses at this level include topics like:
- contract tendering
- estimating
- buying
- cost management
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree
Apprenticeship
You could apply for an apprenticeship to become an estimator.
Options include:
- Project Controls Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Project Controls Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Construction Quantity Surveyor Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
These can take between 3 and 4 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Direct application
You may be able to apply for an estimator position if you have qualifications and experience in related work, for example:
- surveying
- construction project management
- civil engineering
- structural engineering
- procurement
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a project team leader, quality assurance inspector or contracts manager.
You could also move into areas like:
- quantity surveying
- supply chain management
- consultancy
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Controls and Skills Authority for professional development, to make new networking contacts and learn about industry news.
Registration
- you'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site
Guides for this industry
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- Job roleBuilding technician
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