You could do a higher national diploma or degree before starting work. Relevant subjects include:

• structural engineering
• civil engineering
• construction management
• quantity surveying

Courses at this level include topics like:

• contract tendering
• estimating
• buying
• cost management

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree

You could apply for an apprenticeship to become an estimator.

Options include:

• Project Controls Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Project Controls Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• Construction Quantity Surveyor Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

These can take between 3 and 4 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

You may be able to apply for an estimator position if you have qualifications and experience in related work, for example:

• surveying
• construction project management
• civil engineering
• structural engineering
• procurement

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• excellent written communication skills
• knowledge of building and construction
• business management skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

As an estimator, you'll:

• research the cost of materials, equipment, transport and labour
• use planning and scheduling software to estimate timescales
• assess the levels of risk on a project
• prepare quotes and cost summaries for senior managers
• help with bids for new contracts and support buying activities
• monitor projects to make sure costs are kept in line with forecasts

We've identified this as a potential green job

For an estimator to be a green job, you could:

• do audits to find opportunities to use sustainable materials and energy
• calculate potential long-term benefits of green building methods
• identify funding sources and incentives for sustainable development

Find out more about green careers

You could work in an office or on a construction site.