Estimator

Estimators are a vital part of every construction project because they work out exactly how much it will cost to build.

The Estimators responsibility is to produce for their employer, an appropriately priced tender when they are bidding for new work. An estimator will work out how much a project is likely to cost to build – in terms of time involved, materials and labour requirements- so that contractors can ensure they make an acceptable return on the resources employed.

The Estimator prepares tender prices from the architect's drawings and the bill of quantities supplied by the client.

Estimators, who are mostly office-based, mainly work for a contractor or a specialist subcontractor. They need to have good communication skills as they work closely with other colleagues such as Project Managers, planners, buyers and quantity surveyors.

They will be expected to regularly liaise with client's representatives, including architects and engineers.
An estimator’s tasks include:

• Determining a final figure for the estimated cost, supplemented by adjustments for overheads and profit, and presenting a tender price.
• Calculating the cost of plant and equipment.
• Working with the planning engineer - a prediction of the likely progress and completion rate of the project must be calculated, bearing in mind bonus payments and subcontract arrangements.
• Estimating a final figure for the estimated cost, supplemented by adjustments for overheads and profit, and presenting a tender price.
• Detailing all the materials needed on the project to meet the required specification.