
Estimating Graduate Management Trainee (office-based)
Wates GroupExpected closing date: Tuesday, 10 November 2026
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Key Takeaways
- Gain experience in estimating and cost planning within the construction sector.
- Opportunity to complete a Level 4 apprenticeship if your degree isn't construction-related.
- Competitive salary, car allowance, private medical insurance, and 26 days holiday.
- Requires a 2:2 bachelor's degree in a relevant subject and a full UK driving licence.
- Applications close on 10 November 2026.
About the Role
Develop the commercial and technical skills needed to support the successful delivery of construction projects from the earliest stages. Working as part of our Estimating team, you will learn how to prepare cost plans and estimates that help shape project budgets and support the work-winning process.
Gain exposure to a wide range of projects and work closely with experienced estimators, commercial teams, operational colleagues, supply chain partners and clients. You will learn how to review drawings, specifications and tender documentation, analyse project requirements, and develop accurate and competitive cost estimates.
What you will do:
- Assist in the preparation of cost plans, budgets and detailed estimates to support tender submissions and new business opportunities.
- Review project drawings, specifications and tender documentation to identify scope, risks and cost implications.
- Support the evaluation of subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring costs are competitive and aligned with project requirements.
- Help produce customer-focused bid responses and work-winning strategies, tailoring submissions to meet the specific needs of each client.
- Compile and coordinate tender documentation and electronic submissions, ensuring internal processes, governance and deadlines are met.
- Collaborate with colleagues across Commercial, Pre-Construction, Operations and Supply Chain teams to develop a broad understanding of the project lifecycle.
- Assist in researching market trends, material costs and labour rates to help inform estimating decisions.
- Develop an understanding of how different materials, designs and construction methods can affect project costs, helping to identify practical and cost-effective solutions for clients.
- Build strong relationships with colleagues, customers and supply chain partners while developing your professional network across the business.
- Gain the relevant technical and behavioural knowledge for your role, through the completion of a technical manual, behavioural workshops, short-term placements and relevant qualifications.
About you:
- Passionate about building a career in the built environment.
- Curious, eager to learn and committed to your personal development.
- Build positive relationships and work collaboratively with others.
- Take ownership of your work and act with integrity and professionalism.
- Approach challenges with a positive, solution-focused mindset.
- Organised, adaptable and able to prioritise effectively.
- Committed to delivering high standards and making a positive impact.
What's in it for you?
- Hands-on experience in your chosen career pathway.
- Graduates who do not hold a degree in a construction-related subject will be enrolled onto a relevant Level 4 apprenticeship.
- Mentoring, structured training, behavioural workshops and support from experienced professionals.
- Support to continue professional development through industry-recognised qualifications and, where applicable, work towards chartership.
- Competitive salary
- Private medical insurance
- Car allowance
- Health & wellness programme
- 26 days holiday + bank holidays
- Birthday Day off
Entry Requirements
- By September 2027, you must have obtained a bachelor's degree with a predicted or achieved classification of 2:2 or above.
- Your degree subject must be relevant to the position.
- A full UK driving licence is required.
Location
Leeds Thorpe Park and London. For site-based roles, the location listed reflects your initial placement and may change throughout the programme depending on project and business requirements. Travel and mobility are essential parts of the role.