Senior Estimator
Abergavenny
Permanent role + benefits package
Role Purpose
As Senior Estimator, you will lead the pre-construction estimating function for medium to large civil engineering tenders. You will play a key role in securing new work through accurate, competitive and compliant cost planning and tendering, while mentoring the estimating team and enhancing estimating processes.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage full-lifecycle estimating for civil engineering tenders (earthworks, highways, utilities, structures)
* Analyse tender documentation (drawings, specs, contracts) to create detailed cost plans and pricing models
* Liaise with preconstruction, technical, commercial and delivery teams to develop method, programme, risk and opportunities
* Engage with supply chain and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations, build cost databases and benchmark rates
* Identify and manage risk, value engineering, margin assumptions and commercial controls within estimates
* Present estimating outputs to senior stakeholders (bid manager, commercial director) and support tender adjudication
* Hand-over successful tenders to delivery teams including assumptions, budget, risks and historical data
* Mentor and coach junior estimators and contribute to continuous improvement of estimating systems
* Maintain estimating documentation, registers of assumptions, tender review feedback and lessons learned
Candidate Profile
Essential:
* Significant experience (typically 5-10 years) as an estimator in civil engineering/infrastructure/construction
* Proven track record of pricing competitively and winning tenders for medium to large projects
* Strong commercial and contractual awareness (NEC3/NEC4 or relevant frameworks)
* High level of accuracy in cost planning, take-offs and risk assessment
* Excellent communication and presentation skills
* Proficient in estimating software (e.g., Causeway, Candy) and Microsoft Office (Excel)
* Full UK Driving Licence and willingness to travel for site visits and client meetings
Desirable:
* Experience working in Wales or regional market knowledge
* Mentoring or managerial experience of junior estimating staff
* Familiarity with Tarmac/Griffiths systems and frameworks