Estimating Assistant

Estimating Assistant

Department: Commercial / Estimating

Reports To: Estimating Manager

Location: Graham Engineering – Nelson UK

Employment Type: Full Time

Role Purpose

The Trainee Sales Estimator will support the preparation of accurate and competitive quotations for customer enquiries, working closely with engineering, production and commercial teams.

This role is ideally suited to an individual with a strong engineering or manufacturing background (machining, fabrication or welding) who is looking to develop a career within estimating and commercial operations.

Full training and support will be provided; however, the successful candidate will demonstrate a proactive approach, strong attention to detail and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Quotation Support

Assist in the preparation of accurate cost estimates and quotations based on labour, materials, machining, fabrication and production requirements

Analyse engineering drawings, specifications and customer requirements to support quotation development

Support the evaluation of manufacturing methods, build sequence and cost implications

Contribute to cost breakdowns including labour time, materials, processes and subcontract activities

Assist in identifying commercial and technical risks within enquiries

Engineering & Technical Understanding

Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and standards to ensure full understanding of customer requirements

Apply practical knowledge of machining, welding or fabrication processes to support estimating activities

Liaise with engineering and production teams to validate manufacturing feasibility and process routes

Customer & Commercial Support

Support the management of incoming enquiries, RFQs and quotation tracking

Assist in qualifying new opportunities in line with business capabilities

Build and maintain positive working relationships with internal teams and customers

Support responses to customer queries, RFIs and design changes

Project Handover & Coordination

Assist with the handover of successful projects from estimating to production

Work with internal stakeholders to ensure clear understanding of scope, costs and delivery requirements

Support coordination of subcontracted work scopes where required

Key Skills & Behaviours

Strong attention to detail and accuracy

Proactive and self-motivated approach to work

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Strong team player with the ability to collaborate across departments

Good communication skills, both written and verbal

Ability to manage time effectively and prioritise workload

Problem-solving mindset with a keen interest in engineering and manufacturing

Commercial awareness and willingness to develop business understanding

Qualifications & Experience

NVQ Level 3 (minimum) in an engineering or manufacturing discipline (fabrication, welding or machining preferred)

Practical experience within a manufacturing environment (machining, welding, fabrication or similar)

Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings

Desirable

HNC / HND in Engineering or Manufacturing

Exposure to estimating, costing or commercial activities

Knowledge of manufacturing processes and production planning

Experience within regulated industries (nuclear, defence, aerospace)

Training & Development

This is a development role, and full training will be provided to support progression into a fully competent Estimator.

You will gain experience in:

Cost estimation and quotation processes

Commercial and project evaluation

Manufacturing costing methodologies

Working within regulated, high-integrity engineering environments

Working Environment

This role operates within a precision engineering and manufacturing environment, supporting projects across highly regulated sectors. The position requires close collaboration with production, engineering and commercial teams.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Graham Engineering is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals based on skills, experience and potential.