Estimator

What does an estimator do?An estimator is responsible for calculating the costs of a project before work commences, covering everything from materials, labour, equipment hire, transport costs and everything in between.The Duties Of An Estimator May IncludeCalculating how much a proposed project will costResearching prices and collecting quotes from suppliers and subcontractorsMonitoring inflation and exchange ratesChecking the client’s requirementsDrawing up bids for workKeeping an eye on projects to make sure costs stay in line with forecastsDrawing up detailed and accurate price lists for everything needed on a construction projectConsidering risk assessments and health and safety requirementsHow to become an estimatorWhile there are no formal qualifications needed to become an estimator, there are several routes you could take to help you pursue this career. You could complete a university or college course, an apprenticeship or apply directly to an employer for work.You should explore these routes to becoming an estimator, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.UniversityYou could complete a Higher National Diploma (HND) or an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as structural or civil engineering, construction or quantity surveying.Equivalent entry requirements explainedFind a university courseFunding adviceCollege/training providerIn order to become an estimator, you do not need to have any specific qualifications. However, having GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (or the equivalent) in science, technology, IT, English and maths are useful for the role.Having college qualifications in subjects such as structural engineering, civil engineering or construction can also be beneficial for anyone looking for a job as an estimator.Equivalent entry requirements explainedFind a course near youFunding adviceApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry.You could apply for an estimating apprenticeship with a building firm and work towards an NVQ in Project Control Levels 3 and 4, NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations Levels 3 and 4, or a Certificate and Diploma in Site Management Level 4.Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.Guide to apprenticeshipsWorkIf you have previous experience of working in the construction industry, you may be able to apply directly to an employer to become an estimator, or your employer may help you to complete training to work towards this role.Work experienceWork experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as an estimator. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.Find out more about work experienceSkillsCore skills for an estimator include:Strong maths skillsHighly organisedAbility to analyse dataCritical thinking skillsDetail orientedGood communication skillsTechnical abilitiesExcellent time management.QualificationsTo become an estimator, you could complete a:Level 3 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations – EstimatingLevel 3 Apprenticeship in Construction Contracting Operations which includes EstimateTo Become An Estimator, You Could Complete aSCQF Level 6 in Construction Contracting Operations - Estimating (QCF)Scottish Technical Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 9 Construction Contracting Operations Management: EstimatingTo Become An Estimator, You Will NeedGCSE A*-CYou Could Complete aLevel 3 NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations – EstimatingLevel 3 Apprenticeship in Construction Contracting Operations which includes EstimateHow much could you earn as an estimator?The expected salary for an estimator varies as you become more experienced. Newly trained estimator can start at £25,000 Trained with experience estimator can earn up to £75,000*Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources