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  4. Estimating Undergraduate Placement 2025
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McLaughlin & Harvey are one of the leading Building and Civil Engineering Contractors operating throughout the UK and Ireland.

We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic and engaging Estimating Undergraduate Placement

The McLaughlin and Harvey Undergraduate programme will give you the opportunity to train as an Estimator. From day one, our programme is designed to give you the best mentored, relevant and practical experience, tailored to suit your chosen career. Join McLaughlin and Harvey’s Undergraduate programme and you will gain invaluable hands on experience, ready to begin your career in one of the most exciting industries around!

We offer a paid, 12-month Placement with the opportunity to progress onto the graduate scheme following your graduation. Training will include time in relevant departments offering a broader understanding of how the business operates by getting involved in interesting and challenging work. 

Recent projects include; Various railway projects for Translink throughout N Ireland, Gobbins Pathway, Liverpool FC training ground and Waterfont Hall Extension.

Responsibilities

Your main duties and responsibilities will include:

  • To assist in the preparation of analytical cost estimates and tenders, from receipt of enquiry to tender submission and to maintain a library of reference information.
  • To assist in production of priced tenders that are accurate, clearly detailed, and competitive and returned within deadlines. Maintain good relationships with prospective clients and professionals to promote further tender invitations.
  • The desired outcome being that the Company will achieve sufficient new work to enable continued growth in accordance with the Business Strategy.
  • Carefully inspect tender document.
  • Researching materials, equipment and labour costs and review potential Value Engineering options.
  • Collecting quotes from material suppliers and sub-contractors.
  • Preparing and sub-contractor/supplier packages for sending out to the market.
  • Analysing sub-contractor/supplier quotations for the most competitive and compliant.
  • Identify items to have enquiries sent out, together with specification, prelim elements and appropriate drawings.
  • Monitor enquiry process and dates for quote returns.
  • Assess individual rates and prices, amend, create new or insert from material and subcontract quotes.
  • Attend relevant meetings/site visits.
  • Check off all tender information on allocation of a project.
  • Work with the rest of the Estimating team to maintain, analyse and report on benchmark costs for all elements of the works contributing to the growth and continual improvement of the estimating team.

How do I know if it’s right for me?

Our Core Estimating Placement Programme focuses on developing your skills both professionally and interpersonally. The one-year programme is structured, and you will experience working with other departments to broaden your knowledge of how the business operates. 

How will I spend an average working week? 

You’ll be putting into practice what you’ve learned by working with experienced colleagues on a range of high-profile projects throughout the UK. You will primarily be based in Mallusk working alongside the estimating team, but you may also have the opportunity to travel to site visits throughout the UK.

Qualifications

Essential

  • Sound Commercial Awareness
  • Happy to undertake site visits to anywhere in the UK
  • Excellent communication & negotiation skills
  • High levels of organisational skills
  • Ability to meet deadlines
  • Excellent numerical, IT and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work in fast moving Environment
  • Ability to work on initiative with minimum supervision

Desirable

  • Hold a full UK driving license 
  • A valid CSCS card
  • Previous placement/internship experience in a similar role

What's in it for you?

At McLaughlin and Harvey we offer a fantastic benefits package including the following:

  • Flexible and Hybrid working
  • Competitive salary
  • 33 days annual leave entitlement
  • Generous pension contributions
  • Life Assurance

If this sounds like the role for you, please apply by clicking the apply button now!

McLaughlin & Harvey are an Equal Opportunities Employer.