Estimator

You could do a higher national diploma or degree before looking for work. Relevant subjects include:

• structural engineering
• civil engineering
• construction
• quantity surveying

Courses at this level usually include units on contract tendering, estimating and buying.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could start by taking a project controls technician advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could move into estimating work after getting work experience as an administrator, craftsperson, technician or surveying assistant.

Registration

• you'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site

Professional and industry bodies

You could apply to join the Association of Cost Engineers for professional development, networking opportunities and industry news.

Further information

You can find more details about working in construction and engineering from Go Construct and Tomorrow's Engineers.

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• persistence and determination
• knowledge of building and construction
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• researching materials, equipment, transport and labour costs
• collecting quotes from materials suppliers and sub-contractors
• helping plan job timescales
• assessing the levels of risk on a project
• analysing company data, exchange rates and prices
• preparing and submitting quotations and cost summaries for work
• helping with bids for new contracts and supporting buying activities
• monitoring the stages of a project to make sure costs are kept in line with forecasts

You could work in an office.