Estimator/Designer
The Total Office1. Job Summary
We are looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Estimator / Designer to join our team in the commercial office furniture trading industry. The role will primarily focus on furniture estimation, costing, procurement, and quotation preparation (80%), with the remaining 20% dedicated to furniture design, space planning, and technical drawings.
The candidate will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates, competitive quotations, and Bills of Quantities (BOQs), negotiating prices with suppliers, and managing procurement activities for awarded projects. The role also involves preparing furniture layouts and technical drawings, ensuring effective cost control, product quality, and timely project execution.
2. Key ResponsibilitiesA. Estimation & Costing (80%)
- Prepare detailed cost estimates and commercial quotations for commercial office furniture projects.
- Review client enquiries, tender documents, architectural drawings, floor plans, and technical specifications to determine project requirements.
- Prepare Bills of Quantities (BOQs), detailed costing sheets, and furniture specifications.
- Calculate furniture quantities, dimensions, material requirements, accessories, and other project-related costs.
- Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations to ensure accurate costing and competitive pricing.
- Analyse project requirements and identify cost-effective furniture solutions without compromising quality or specifications.
- Review drawings and specifications to identify discrepancies, missing information, and potential cost implications.
- Ensure all estimates account for relevant product, material, and project-related costs.
- Revise estimates and quotations based on changes in scope, specifications, or client requirements.
- Ensure estimates are accurate, commercially competitive, and submitted within project deadlines.
B. Procurement & Supplier Management
- Identify suitable suppliers and manufacturers for commercial office furniture and related products.
- Negotiate prices, payment terms, delivery schedules, and other commercial terms with suppliers to achieve the best value for the company.
- Compare supplier quotations, evaluate product specifications, and select suitable options based on cost, quality, and project requirements.
- Place purchase orders with suppliers once projects are awarded and orders are confirmed.
- Verify purchase order details, quantities, specifications, prices, and delivery timelines.
- Follow up with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials and furniture in accordance with project schedules.
- Coordinate with suppliers to resolve pricing discrepancies, product issues, delays, and other procurement-related matters.
- Maintain updated supplier records, negotiated prices, quotations, and purchase order documentation.
- Monitor procurement costs and identify opportunities for cost savings while maintaining the required quality standards.
C. Furniture Design & Technical Drawings (20%)
- Prepare 2D furniture layouts, space plans, and technical drawings using AutoCAD.
- Develop 3D furniture models and office layouts using Google SketchUp.
- Prepare furniture layouts for workstations, executive offices, meeting rooms, storage units, and other commercial spaces.
- Review floor plans and dimensions to ensure furniture fits the available space and meets project requirements.
- Prepare and revise drawings based on client requirements and internal feedback.
- Ensure consistency between approved designs, estimated quantities, product specifications, and procurement requirements.
D. Project Coordination & Documentation
- Coordinate with the Sales team to clarify project requirements and prepare estimates and quotations.
- Work closely with the Operations Manager, Sales team, and Project team to support smooth project execution.
- Assist in preparing technical submissions, product specifications, and supporting documents for client approval.
- Maintain accurate records of quotations, BOQs, supplier comparisons, costing sheets, purchase orders, and drawings.
- Monitor changes in project scope and ensure the associated cost estimates and procurement requirements are updated.
- Complete assigned tasks accurately and within agreed deadlines.
3. RequirementsExperience
- At least 4–5 years of experience in furniture estimation, costing, procurement, or commercial office furniture.
- Experience in the UAE furniture trading industry is preferred.
- Practical experience preparing BOQs, cost estimates, commercial quotations, and supplier comparisons.
- Experience negotiating with suppliers and managing purchase orders is essential.
- Experience in commercial office furniture projects, including workstations, desks, meeting tables, and storage systems, is an advantage.
Technical Skills
- Good working knowledge of MS Excel for costing, calculations, BOQs, and quotation preparation.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD for 2D furniture layouts and technical drawings.
- Working knowledge of Google SketchUp for 3D modelling and visualization.
- Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, floor plans, tender documents, and technical specifications.
- Knowledge of furniture materials, finishes, hardware, product specifications, and supplier pricing.
- Familiarity with UAE furniture market pricing and supplier networks is an advantage.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong numerical, analytical, and commercial skills.
- Good negotiation, supplier management, and cost-control skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong organizational and coordination skills.
- Ability to identify cost-saving opportunities and practical furniture alternatives.
- Ability to manage multiple quotations, procurement activities, and projects simultaneously.
- Ability to meet tight deadlines and work effectively with cross-functional teams.
4. Qualifications
- Relevant Bachelor's degree.
5. Reporting Structure
The Estimator / Designer will report directly to the Operations Manager and coordinate with the Sales and Project teams, suppliers, and other relevant stakeholders.
6. Key Performance Focus
- 80% – Estimation, Costing & Procurement: Accurate BOQs, competitive quotations, supplier negotiations, purchase orders, and effective cost control.
- 20% – Design & Technical Drawings: Furniture layouts, technical drawings, space planning, and 3D visualizations.
Key Objective: To prepare accurate and commercially competitive furniture estimates, manage supplier negotiations and procurement for awarded projects, and provide the necessary design support to ensure cost-effective and timely delivery of commercial furniture projects.
Pay: AED8,000.00 - AED10,000.00 per month
Application Question(s):
- What is your Salary Expectation?
- What is your Notice Period?
- Do you have Experience in Furniture Industry?
- This role primarily focuses on 80% estimation, with the remaining 20% dedicated to design. Are you comfortable with this role distribution?
Work Location: In person