Job Description

Start your career where it matters most - building a better future together

Tilbury Douglas is a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out company. We deliver vital projects across a range of sectors including health, education, water, defence, justice and civic and civil estate. Our schemes improve lives and strengthen communities. As a Graduate Estimator, you'll play a key role in the early stages of our projects - helping to shape cost plans and tenders that make sure we can deliver real value, on time and on budget.

Location

This role will be based in the Reading region, where you'll work within our Infrastructure and Thames Water team. Flexibility to travel across sites in the region will be required as part of your development.

What you'll be doing

As a Graduate Estimator, you'll rotate across key areas to develop your skills and gain the experience you need to progress towards professional accreditation.



No two days are the same and with the support of experienced colleagues, you'll:


Assist in preparing cost estimates and tender submissions for a wide range of construction projects Learn how to analyse drawings, specifications and project requirements to develop accurate cost plans Work with supply chain partners to obtain quotations and assess market rates Support in producing bills of quantities, take-offs and other pricing documents Help identify risks, opportunities and value engineering options Contribute to tender presentations and client proposals Develop skills in estimating software and digital tools used for cost modelling Build strong working relationships with design teams, project managers, and supply chain partners

Why this role?

This isn't just about numbers - it's about impact. You'll be supported to develop the technical, commercial and people skills to become a trusted professional. With mentoring, structured training and support towards professional accreditation (e.g. RICS or CIOB), you'll be on a clear pathway to becoming a Chartered Estimator.

What we're looking for

We want to hear from people who are passionate about making a difference through construction and the built environment. You'll bring:


A degree (or expected in 2026) in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline (2:1 or above) A full UK driving licence (or working towards by the time you start) Strong numerical and analytical skills with a keen eye for detail Good written and verbal communication, able to engage with a wide range of people A collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm to learn and take on responsibility Previous placement or site experience (desirable but not essential)

What we can offer you

A structured two-year graduate development programme aligned to professional membership Professional accreditation support (e.g. RICS or Chartered Institute of Building) Mentoring and support from experienced counsellors and supervisors Two days volunteering opportunities per year Opportunities to work on diverse and meaningful projects across the UK An inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions make a real difference Competitive salary Car Allowance Performance Related Pay (PRP) 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (with the opportunity to buy or sell up to 3 days holiday) Private medical insurance and 24/7 access to health and wellbeing experts via our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Company pension scheme matched up to 8% Flexible Benefits scheme which includes the opportunity to purchase benefits such as: + Critical illness insurance (with option to purchase for your partner) + Dental Insurance
+ Travel insurance
+ Cycle to work scheme
+ Perks at Work employee discount scheme offering discounts and savings portal for hundreds of retailers, cafes, restaurants, cinemas, travel, payroll giving/activity pass for top leisure attractions and a range of other benefits

Recruitment Timeline

Stage 1 - Online Applications:

You can apply

up until 28 November 2025

. We recommend getting your application in early!

Stage 2 - Shortlisting:

We'll review all applications during

December 2025

and get in touch to invite successful candidates to interview.

Stage 3 - Interviews:

Interviews will take place during the

week commencing 5 January 2026

. We'll let you know everything you need to prepare in advance.

Stage 4 - Offers:

Offers will be made in February 2026.

We'll keep you updated throughout the process so you know what to expect.

Why Tilbury Douglas?

We're more than just a construction company; we're a community of people working together to deliver projects that matter. We value diversity, innovation and wellbeing and we're committed to helping you reach your full potential.



Our values form a core part of our company and our mission to build a better future together. They underpin everything we do and set out what is expected from all of us:


Everyone has a voice Do the right thing Take pride in what you do Bring better to life

Join us and take your first step towards an exciting career!