Estimator

Estimator

Based in Ashbourne, Co. Meath, and established in 1950, McKeon Contech Ltd t/a McKeon Group and Hereworks is a digital-first innovator in the construction, building services, and smart-building sectors. We specialise in the planning, management, and delivery of detail-focused, high-quality projects across commercial, educational, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, retail, and pharmaceutical sectors.

We live by our Core Values of Client Commitment, Integrity, Sustainability, Quality & Brilliance and are committed to building exceptional, motivated teams who help drive McKeon Group & Hereworks to be leaders in Construction & Technology—while enjoying the journey along the way.

What’s the Opportunity?

McKeon Group are expanding and is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Mid-Tier Estimator to join our growing Pre-Construction team. This hybrid role (1-2 days per week) is crucial in preparing accurate, competitive, and compliant tender submissions for high-profile projects nationwide.

The successful candidate will work closely with our Senior Estimator, Pre-Construction Manager and Commercial & Construction team to analyse tender documents, develop robust cost plans, lead subcontractor engagement, and contribute to pre- and post-tender activities. This role is ideal for an estimator with 4–6+ years’ experience who is seeking strong progression within a dynamic and collaborative environment.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Tendering & Cost Estimation

  • Analyse tender documentation, drawings, and specifications to prepare accurate and complete costings.
  • Complete detailed labour, material, plant, and subcontractor estimates.
  • Prepare, compile, and deliver tender submissions within strict deadlines.
  • Conduct quantity take-offs and build detailed BoQs where required.
  • Assess project risks, opportunities, and assumptions to support pricing decisions.
  • Contribute to value engineering initiatives and the development of alternative construction solutions.

Subcontractor & Supplier Engagement

  • Source, review, and negotiate quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.
  • Build and maintain strong supply-chain relationships to ensure competitive pricing.
  • Ensure subcontractor quotations are compliant with scope, drawings, and specifications.
  • Maintain up-to-date subcontractor and material pricing databases.

Pre-Construction & Project Collaboration

  • Work closely with Estimating, Commercial, Contracts, and Project Managers to ensure consistent cost data.
  • Participate in pre- and post-tender meetings with clients, consultants, and design teams.
  • Support early-stage project planning with budget advice and procurement strategies.
  • Assist with construction methodology development and preliminaries pricing.

Documentation, Quality & Handover

  • Review drawings, specifications, and addenda for completeness and accuracy.
  • Prepare comprehensive handover documentation for the delivery team for secured projects.
  • Support document control and maintain accurate estimating records and pricing logs.
  • Assist in continuous improvement of estimating tools, templates, and processes.

Skills / Experience / Qualifications Required:

  • Degree or Diploma and experience in Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, Engineering, or related discipline.
  • 4–6+ years of experience in an estimating role within the construction industry.
  • Strong knowledge of Irish construction methods, materials, and regulations.
  • Advanced numerical and analytical ability with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in estimating software such as Evaluate, Buildsoft, Cubit, Causeway, or similar.
  • Excellent MS Excel skills; familiarity with Dynamics or similar ERP systems is an advantage.
  • Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, and M&E drawings confidently.
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

  • Experience working with public-sector procurement (GCCC/NEC).
  • Familiarity with digital construction workflows and BIM.
  • Knowledge of Procore or similar CDEs.

All Candidates Should Have:

  • A positive, service-oriented attitude.
  • Strong organisational and time-management skills.
  • A collaborative, team-focused mindset.
  • A problem-solving, results-driven approach.
  • High attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Flexibility and willingness to learn and grow within the Group.
  • Ability to travel to Ashbourne or project sites as required.

Benefits of joining us in the Estimator Role:

  • Salary: Competitive (DOE) – typically aligned to €60,000–€70,000 for mid-tier roles.
  • Hybrid Working Model (typically 1–2 days remote per week depending on project demands)
  • Pension Scheme
  • Income Protection and Death in Service scheme
  • Membership of the Employee Assistance Programme
  • Career progression opportunities within McKeon Group & Hereworks
  • Support for training, CPD and ongoing professional development

Salary:

Competitive (DOE) – typically aligned to €60,000–€70,000 for mid-tier roles.

Location:

Primarily, Ashbourne Head Office, with hybrid flexibility.

Reporting to:

Senior Estimator

Contract:

Full time, Permanent

McKeon Group Core Values