Job Title: Assistant Estimator

Location: Kilmarnock, Scotland
Sector: Civil Engineering, Construction & Railway Infrastructure

Role Overview

We are seeking a motivated Assistant Estimator to support the estimating and commercial team in preparing accurate, competitive, and commercially robust cost estimates for civil engineering, construction, and railway infrastructure projects. This role offers excellent exposure to infrastructure delivery across multiple sectors and provides the opportunity to develop within a structured estimating function.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of tender submissions for civil engineering, construction, and railway infrastructure projects.

• Review and interpret employer’s information, drawings, specifications, and contract documents.

• Carry out quantity take-offs and measurements for labour, plant, materials, and subcontract packages.

• Support the pricing of work packages and assist with cost build-ups and pricing schedules.

• Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations and technical information.

• Assist in identifying project risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.

• Maintain accurate records of pricing assumptions, cost data, and tender documentation.

• Support post-award handover to delivery and commercial teams by providing accurate cost breakdowns.

• Collaborate with Estimators, Commercial Managers, Project Managers, and design teams to ensure robust and buildable cost plans.

Candidate Profile

• Previous experience in an Assistant Estimator or Trainee Estimator role within civil engineering, construction, utilities, or railway infrastructure projects.

• Strong understanding of construction drawings, measurement techniques, and estimating principles.

• Commercially aware with excellent numerical and analytical skills.

• Confident working to deadlines in a fast-paced tender environment.

• Effective communicator with the ability to build working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and familiar with standard estimating software; knowledge of systems such as Causeway or Candy is advantageous.

Qualifications (Desirable)

• HNC / HND / Degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.

• Working towards, or interest in pursuing, professional or vocational estimating qualifications (e.g., RICS, CIOB).

What We Offer

• Exposure to a variety of civil engineering, construction, and railway infrastructure projects.

• Structured career development and mentoring from senior estimating professionals.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Long-term career progression within a structured infrastructure and civil engineering environment.