Job Description

Trainee Estimator - Civil Engineering and Groundworks

Working hours:

07:30 - 17:00 Monday to Friday

Work Location:

Aston, Birmingham

Job type:

Full-time

Company:

McDermotts Building and Civil Engineering Ltd

About the role

Due to our continued growth and success, McDermotts is seeking a

Trainee Estimator

to join our dynamic Estimating team, are you an ambitious individual eager to launch your career in the construction industry? Join us at the very beginning of the building process--at the tender stage--and gain invaluable experience.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in preparing cost estimates

for construction projects by collecting and analysing data on materials, labour, equipment, and subcontractor quotations.

Review drawings, specifications, and project documents

to identify scope requirements, potential risks, and cost implications.

Support senior estimators

in producing tender submissions, bills of quantities, and cost breakdowns.

Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors

to obtain competitive prices and clarify technical details.

Assist in maintaining and updating the estimating database

, cost libraries, and historical project data.

Attend site visits

(when required) to understand project constraints, site conditions, and logistics considerations.

Work collaboratively

with the wider pre-construction and project delivery teams to ensure estimates align with company standards and client expectations.

Learn and apply estimating software

and company systems to prepare accurate and timely tenders.

Contribute to value engineering exercises

, identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or safety.

Develop knowledge of construction methods, materials, and industry standards

to improve estimating accuracy and professional growth.

Education & Qualifications

GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths (essential). A relevant qualification in Construction, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline (BTEC, HNC/HND, or degree) - desirable but not essential. Willingness to work towards further professional qualifications (e.g. RICS, CIOB, or equivalent).

Experience

Some experience or exposure to the construction industry (e.g. work placement, site experience, or related role) - desirable. Familiarity with reading technical drawings and construction documentation - advantageous.

Skills & Knowledge

Strong numerical and analytical skills with attention to detail. Good communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with suppliers, clients, and team members. Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; knowledge of estimating or cost management software is an advantage. Ability to manage workload effectively and meet deadlines. Eagerness to learn and develop within the estimating and pre-construction function. Awareness of health, safety, and environmental standards in construction.

Benefits:

.

Competitive salary

.

33 Days holiday inc. Bank Holidays

. Extra day of for your Birthday

. Flexibility to extend annual leave

. Free on-site parking

. Pension

. BHSF - Health Cash plan

. Death in Service

. Referral scheme

. Company events and recognition

. Ongoing training and development

Why Join McDermotts

McDermotts is a nationwide civil engineering and groundworks company based in Birmingham, supporting some of the largest construction companies across the length and breadth of the UK. Established in 1994, we're a family-founded business that still operates with the customer focus and values we started with. Construction is our passion, and we believe that the industry can provide rich and rewarding experiences.

Our certifications include: CIOB, ISO 45001, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 50001, NHSS30, SSIP, Achilles Building Confidence, Safe contractor, Construction Line, FORS and Considerate Constructors.

To ensure we continue to meet the needs of our customers and grow as a business, we continually look for new recruits to join our team. When you engage with McDermotts, you are not just joining a team, you become part of our family. Our culture is built around supporting each other and working together to achieve success.

Commitments

McDermotts is an equal opportunities employer, and we value diversity. All engagement is decided based on a qualifications, merit and business need.

Applicants from outside the UK must have a suitable visa or the Right to Work in the UK to be considered for this job.

Your shared personal information will be stored and shared by email or a printed copy with HR and hiring managers in relation to any open vacancy for which you wish to be considered.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Additional leave Company events Company pension Employee discount Free parking On-site parking Transport links
Ability to commute/relocate:

Aston B6 5RS: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):

Have you got o A relevant qualification in Construction, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline (BTEC, HNC/HND, or degree)? Are you proficient in Microsoft Office?
Work Location: In person