CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS

Construction buyers are responsible for ensuring that the materials required for construction projects are provided to schedule and according to projected budgets. They have a vital part to play in helping ensure the profitability of contracts since they are responsible for ensuring that the most cost-effective and appropriate materials are purchased. The role of the estimator in the building industry is to calculate tenders for the employer that ensure an adequate return on the resources employed. In making contractual arrangements, it is usual for the estimator to prepare tender prices from the architect's drawings and the bill of quantities supplied by the client.

Detailing all the materials necessary for the contract to achieve specification. Estimating the cost of plant and equipment. Working with the planning engineer - a prediction of the likely progress and completion rate of the project must be calculated, bearing in mind bonus payments and sub contractual arrangements. calculating a final figure for the estimated cost, supplemented by adjustments for overheads and profit, and presenting a tender price (as and when contracts are won) monitoring and storing costs through the use of computers to improve the accuracy of future pricing - this is primarily a head office function and is sometimes integrated with the quantity surveying activities.

Estimating is predominantly office-based, but definitely not a nine to five job, because of the need to meet demanding deadlines. Travel to clients' premises may be required. Estimators achieve great job satisfaction when tenders are successful, although inevitably it can be disappointing when contracts are awarded to competitors. Most opportunities are with contractors and subcontractors. A smaller number of estimators work for consultancies. Providing prices for all materials included in project plans and drawings.

Contacting a range of suppliers and sub-contractors to obtain quotations and agree delivery times. Keeping detailed records and maintaining a well-organized work schedule. Assessing the reliability of sub-contractors and suppliers. Dealing effectively with challenges with suppliers and the flow of materials. Providing advice to the project estimator on the predicted cost of individual items. Closely with the estimator at the tendering stage to ensure that an accurate project cost is provided. Negotiating the most favorable terms possible with suppliers once a contract has been secured.