Estimator

The Job  

The estimator's job is to calculate the approximate total cost of the building work from the contract drawings and the bill of quantities. They also find the cost of items from the buyer's prices and calculate the time it will take to do the work.

The People  

Most estimators work for a contractor or specialist sub-contractor, and alongside colleagues including construction managers, planners, buyers and quantity surveyors. Estimators need good communication skills, as they regularly need to talk to the client's representatives, including architects and engineers.

Entry Requirements  

There are no specific academic entry requirements to train as an estimator, although GCSE/S Grade passes in Science, Technology, and particularly Maths will be helpful for measurements and estimations. Most importantly, you need good communication and organisational skills.

Most entrants are trained in an aspect of construction or building, to ensure full understanding of methods and processes, and how the whole job fits together. You will usually begin your training as an assistant technician, and then progress on to more supervisory roles.

Training will normally be carried out on-site and you will be issued day release to college to complete theory training. There are apprenticeship schemes available, and employers are happy to offer work experience to young people hoping to get into the trade.

The Benefits  

Assistant estimators can expect to earn about £17,000, while senior estimators can take home around £28,000. As with most jobs, salaries in London are higher. For further information on salaries, see professional institutions and industry press.