Job Title: Lead Estimator
Company: Metrail Construction
Location: Head Office, Heathfield (office-based with regular site/supplier visits)
Employment Type: Full-time
About Metrail Construction
Metrail Construction is a specialist Highways & rail contractor delivering safe, sustainable and innovative infrastructure solutions. Working on highways and rail. We pride ourselves on technical excellence, collaborative client relationships and delivering complex projects on time and to budget.
Role Summary
Based at our Head Office in Heathfield, the Lead Estimator will lead estimating for Highways and Rail works - with specific responsibility for waterproofing and jointing scope items. You will prepare auditable, competitive estimates for major bids and ad hoc tenders, manage supplier engagement, mentor junior staff and act as a key commercial interface with clients and our Commercial Manager. The role includes strong pre construction involvement and support through handover into construction; on smaller packages you may be required to deputise for or directly support the Construction Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead preparation of detailed, line item cost estimates and tender submissions for rail, highways and SDF packages.
- Specifically scope, quantify and price waterproofing and jointing works (membranes, liquid applied systems, preformed joints, sealants, movement joints, drainage and interfaces).
- Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports and site data to determine scope and constructability.
- Produce material take offs, labour/plant rates, subcontractor scopes, testing/QA allowances and contingency for specialist items.
- Coordinate and negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing, product warranties and installation programmes.
- Build and maintain estimating databases, assemblies and historic cost benchmarks that include specialist waterproofing/jointing systems.
- Prepare risk registers, value engineering proposals and assess warranty/defect liabilities for waterproofing/jointing works.
- Manage rapid turnaround ad hoc and small tenders alongside major bid programmes; prioritise resources to meet tight deadlines.
- Quality assure estimates from junior staff and provide coaching and development.
- Interface directly with clients from Heathfield head office - presenting estimates, responding to clarifications and maintaining strong commercial relationships.
- Work closely with the Operations Co-Ordinator throughout pre construction: attend site surveys, risk workshops, method statement reviews, programme and sequencing discussions.
- Support the Operations Co-Ordinator Manager during bid handover and into construction: provide cost input to change control, variations, progress forecasting and post tender reviews.
- Where required (small/ad hoc packages), deputise as or provide direct support to the Construction Manager to manage delivery, supplier coordination and on site technical issues.
- Attend site visits, supplier meetings and client offices as required.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Tertiary qualification in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying or equivalent.
- Minimum 5-8+ years' estimating experience in Highways or infrastructure projects. Proven experience pricing waterproofing and jointing systems for highways .
- Proficient with estimating software (e.g., Sage construction manager Estimating or similar) and advanced Excel skills.
- Strong understanding of construction methodologies, plant productivity, waterproofing materials, jointing systems and relevant standards/testing requirements.
- Commercial acumen, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple bids to tight deadlines.
- Strong client facing skills and confident presenter.
- Demonstrable experience working collaboratively with construction/site teams and Construction Managers.
- Willingness to travel to sites and attend supplier/client meetings.
Desirable
- Experience with NEC or other major forms of contract.
- Previous leadership/people management experience.
- Certifications in waterproofing systems, estimating, quantity surveying or project management.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and performance bonus (dependent on experience).
- Comprehensive benefits package.
- Career progression and professional development.
- A safety first, collaborative culture working on high profile infrastructure projects.
How to Apply
Send your CV and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant estimating experience (including waterproofing/jointing and SDF projects) and examples of pre construction/construction liaison to Please put "Lead Estimator
Application Deadline: 08/11/25
Metrail Construction is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person