GRAHAM Academy - Assistant Estimator - Interior Fit Out

Job Summary

At GRAHAM, we are committed to delivering exceptional interior environments that transform the way people work, learn, and interact. As our Interior Fit-Out business continues to grow, we are seeking an enthusiastic Assistant Estimator to join our team.

In this role, you will support the preparation of competitive bids and cost plans for a diverse range of interior fit-out, refurbishment, and workplace projects across both public and private sectors.

Working alongside experienced Estimators and Commercial professionals, you will gain hands-on experience in estimating, supplier engagement, procurement support, cost analysis, and bid coordination.

This is an excellent opportunity for a graduate who is passionate about construction, commercial interiors, and delivering high-quality spaces. You'll develop your technical and commercial skills while building a rewarding career with one of the UK's leading construction and fit-out companies.

Job Description:

The Assistant Estimator shall:

• Assist in preparing accurate cost estimates, budgets, and cost plans for interior fit-out and refurbishment projects.
• Review tender documents, drawings, specifications, schedules, and design information.
• Carry out quantity take-offs and measurements from drawings and project documentation.
• Obtain, compare, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring compliance with tender requirements.
• Support the pricing of key fit-out elements including partitions, ceilings, flooring, joinery, furniture, finishes, decorations, and specialist interior packages.
• Assist in preparing bills of quantities, schedules of rates, and pricing documents.
• Contribute to the development of tender submissions and supporting documentation.
• Support value engineering exercises and identify opportunities to deliver cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
• Maintain and update cost databases, supplier and subcontractor information, and historic project data.
• Help prepare tender adjudication reports and support bid presentations to senior management. 
• Work closely with Estimators, Quantity Surveyors, Design Managers, Buyers, and the wider Commercial team to ensure estimates are accurate and commercially viable. 
• Develop an understanding of project programmes, construction methodologies, and procurement strategies within the fit-out sector. 
• Support compliance with company standards, health & safety procedures, sustainability objectives, and quality requirements. 

Requirements:

Essential Technical Competencies 

• Hold a Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or Commercial Management degree. 
• Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Strong numerical and analytical skills with a high level of attention to detail. 
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications. 
• Ability to work as part of a team and manage priorities effectively. 
• Right to work in the UK. 

Desirable:

• Previous placement, internship, or work experience within the construction or fit-out industry. 
• An appreciation of Health & Safety practices within a construction environment. 
• Understanding of interior fit-out materials, specification requirements, and construction methods. 
• Experience using estimating or quantity take-off software. 
• Ability to demonstrate problem-solving skills and commercial awareness. 

Personal Specification

Essential Behavioural Competencies

• Commercial Awareness: Demonstrates an interest in developing strong business and commercial acumen. Understands the importance of balancing cost, quality, programme, and client expectations to achieve successful project outcomes. 
• Effective Communication: Communicates clearly and professionally with clients, consultants, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. Produces accurate reports and tender documentation. 
• Customer Focus: Seeks to understand client requirements and contribute to solutions that provide long-term value and exceptional project outcomes. Influencing Builds positive relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders to support successful tender and commercial outcomes. 
• Initiative: Self-motivated and proactive with a willingness to learn. Takes ownership of tasks and actively seeks opportunities to improve processes and add value. 
• Attention to Detail: Produces accurate commercial reviews, reports, and documentation while maintaining a high level of accuracy under deadline pressures.
• Team Player: Works collaboratively across Pre-Construction, Commercial, Design, Procurement, and Operations teams. Demonstrates honesty, integrity, and commitment to achieving business objectives.
• Negotiation: Develops the ability to negotiate effectively with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive quotations while ensuring quality, programme, and project requirements are maintained. 

The Recruitment Process:

• The closing date for applications will be January 2027
• Interviews will commence in February 2027.
• Successful candidates will be notified in March 2027.
• All successful applicants will have joined the business by September 2027, if not before.

Graduates

We offer a two year programme which focuses on developing your technical and interpersonal skills. In addition, a structured, mentored training programme, aligned to a recognised professional qualification, will set you on the pathway to chartership. Through early responsibility you’ll learn quickly on challenging projects with the opportunity for fast track career advancement.

Benefits

• Car Allowance
• Subsidised Private Medical Cover
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Living away from home allowance (where appropriate)
• Contributory Pension
• 35 Days' annual leave (Including Public Holidays)

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