Trainee Estimator

Avove Early Careers – Be The Future! Being a trainee at Avove isn’t just a job, it’s the beginning of a rewarding career. We’re building a bright and ambitious future, and we want you to be part of it. Join our thriving early careers community and take your next step toward shaping the future of our business. About our programme We’re here to help you grow. As a trainee, you’ll learn from experienced colleagues and take part in training designed just for your role. You’ll join a supportive early careers community, have the chance to become a STEM ambassador, and use your digital skills to help us inspire other young people through social media. We want you to enjoy what you do, learn quickly, aim high, and get hands-on experience—so keep reading and apply today! About the trainee role… As part of our team, you’ll work on a variety of design and build projects across the UK, supporting the delivery of wastewater and water network infrastructure and treatment facilities. You’ll learn directly from experienced Estimators, gaining hands-on experience and building your knowledge across all aspects of the role. You’ll apply what you learn to assist in the complete bid process from PQQ to tender submission helping ensure we deliver value for our clients while staying true to our company values. As a trainee, your time will be split between site visits, working from your office location and working from home. You will work 37.5 hours per week, and the role is based in Durham. This role is a September 2026 start. What your day could look like… * Learning how to support the full bid process, from early questionnaires (PQQs) through to final tender submissions. * Assisting with the approvals process to make sure all bids follow company rules and receive the correct sign‑off. * Understanding how to put together detailed tenders and cost estimates from scratch, within set deadlines. * Learning the key estimating procedures and how they are used when creating tenders. * Working alongside the Estimating and Operational teams to understand how high‑quality estimates and tender documents are produced. * Gaining experience in keeping tender records up to date, including logging any changes. * Helping prepare clear briefing packs for Operational Project Teams when a tender is successful. * Learning how to communicate programme timelines and potential risks effectively. * Building an understanding of financial and contractual information and learning how to explain it clearly to senior managers. About you… You will need the following to be eligible for this apprenticeship: * Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Maths and English at a grade 4 or above. * Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels, a T Level qualification or a BTEC qualification This role is entry level, ideal for a school leaver and would be a great fit if you’re confident using digital tools like Microsoft Office and enjoy working with others. We’re looking for someone who communicates clearly, stays organised, and pays attention to detail. You’ll need to be comfortable working in a team and able to take initiative when working independently. If you’re motivated, eager to learn, and interested in developing leadership skills, we’d love to hear from you! What’s in it for you… We offer a competitive salary and a wide range of flexible benefits to support your wellbeing and lifestyle: * 24 days holiday plus bank holidays * Company pension scheme * Life assurance * Private GP helpline & health cash plan * Avove discount scheme * Family-friendly policies * Lifestyle benefit options * Financial wellbeing programme * Employee assistance programme and mental health first aiders * Volunteering days and charity matched giving About us… At Avove, we design, build, and maintain the UK’s utilities infrastructure—helping to keep water flowing, lights on, and people connected. We deliver sustainable engineering solutions and work with leading utility providers including Severn Trent, United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, Scottish Power, and Northern Ireland Water. We’re proud to be a responsible, agile partner, committed to improving communities and protecting the environment. We are an equal opportunities employer... We welcome applications from candidates of all races, genders, disabilities, religions, ages and sexual orientations. Diversity drives innovation, and we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our Communities of Practice help us stay accountable and keep progressing. Ready to apply? * Apply as soon as you can as we review applications on a rolling basis. * If you have questions, reach out to us at (url removed) * Want to learn more about Avove Early Careers? Visit our pages. * Need help with your CV or interview prep? Visit our resource page