Estimator
Estimators work out how much the different parts of an engineering or construction project will cost.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
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
We've identified this as a potential green job
For an estimator to be a green job, you could:
- do audits to find opportunities to use sustainable materials and energy
- calculate potential long-term benefits of green building methods
- identify funding sources and incentives for sustainable development
Find out more about green careers
Working environment
You could work in an office or on a construction site.
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
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
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
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
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
More Information
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
More Information
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
Registration
- you'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site
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.
Further information
You can find more details about working as an estimator in construction and engineering from:
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.