Estimator (Fit-Out & Luxury Villas) – Job Description
Job Title: Estimator – Fit-Out & Luxury Villas
Job Summary
The Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates, budgets, and tender submissions for interior fit-out, high-end residential, and luxury villa projects. The role involves analyzing drawings and specifications, conducting quantity take-offs, obtaining supplier and subcontractor quotations, and ensuring competitive and profitable project pricing.
Key Responsibilities
Estimation & Cost Planning
- Review architectural, structural, MEP, and interior design drawings and specifications.
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for fit-out and luxury villa projects.
- Perform quantity take-offs and material quantification from project drawings.
- Develop project budgets, cost plans, and pricing schedules.
- Analyze project requirements and identify cost-effective solutions.
Tendering & Bidding
- Prepare and submit tender documents, BOQs (Bills of Quantities), and commercial proposals.
- Obtain and evaluate quotations from suppliers, subcontractors, and vendors.
- Compare vendor prices and negotiate favorable commercial terms.
- Ensure tender submissions are completed accurately and within deadlines.
- Participate in pre-bid meetings and site visits when required.
Cost Analysis & Value Engineering
- Conduct cost analysis and benchmarking of materials and labor rates.
- Recommend value engineering options to optimize project costs while maintaining quality.
- Identify potential project risks and pricing impacts.
- Assist in budget forecasting and cash flow planning.
Project Coordination
- Coordinate with design, procurement, project management, and construction teams.
- Clarify technical and commercial requirements with consultants and clients.
- Support project teams during execution with cost-related information and variations.
- Assist in evaluating change orders, variations, and claims.
Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain accurate records of estimates, quotations, and tender documentation.
- Prepare estimation reports, bid summaries, and management presentations.
- Update cost databases and pricing information regularly.
- Ensure compliance with company procedures and industry standards.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.
- Minimum 3–8 years of experience in estimation for fit-out, luxury residential, or villa construction projects.
- Experience in high-end interior fit-out projects, custom villas, and premium finishes.
Required Skills
- Quantity take-off and cost estimation.
- Tender preparation and bid management.
- BOQ preparation and analysis.
- Strong numerical and analytical skills.
- Negotiation and vendor management.
- Cost control and budgeting.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Time management and ability to meet deadlines.
- Excellent communication and coordination skills.
Technical Knowledge
- Interior fit-out works including:
- Joinery and carpentry
- Decorative finishes
- Marble and stone works
- Flooring and ceiling systems
- Furniture and bespoke installations
- Luxury villa construction methodologies.
- MEP and civil works cost estimation.
- Market pricing and construction materials.
- Knowledge of local building regulations and standards.
Software Proficiency
- Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
- AutoCAD
- PlanSwift / Bluebeam / CostX (preferred)
- Microsoft Project
- ERP and estimation software (preferred)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in GCC/UAE luxury villa and fit-out projects.
- Quantity Surveying certification.
- Knowledge of FIDIC contracts and commercial practices.
- Experience working with premium residential developers and consultants.
Working Conditions
- Office-based with occasional site visits.
- Interaction with clients, consultants, suppliers, and subcontractors.
- Ability to work under tender deadlines and multiple project requirements.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Accuracy of estimates and tender submissions.
- Bid success rate.
- Budget variance between estimated and actual costs.
- Timely completion of tenders.
- Cost savings through value engineering.
- Supplier and subcontractor cost optimization.
- Quality and completeness of tender documentation.
