Lead Estimator Sectors: Civil Engineering, Rail, Aviation, Power, Environment & Highways Locations: Warrington Contract: Permanent (UK) The Opportunity We’re seeking a skilled Lead Estimator to join pre-contract teams across the North (East & West). You’ll price a diverse portfolio of multi-disciplinary engineering projects and ensure tenders are commercially robust, competitive, and aligned to client needs. You’ll also provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to regional estimating teams to support capability and growth. Role Overview Based from Warrington or Barnsley and reporting to the Regional Senior Pre-Contracts Manager, you will: Lead tender development and pricing for regional opportunities. Support long-term growth of the estimating function, sharing best practice and coaching team members. Manage regional contributions to the tender book and oversee inputs to estimating systems (e.g., Causeway). Coordinate with bid, planning, commercial and operational colleagues to deliver high-quality submissions. Contribute to strategy on major regional frameworks and national bids. Key Responsibilities * Own, update and distribute the regional tender pipeline/tender book. * Partner with Procurement to build and maintain a competitive supply chain. * Lead supplier and subcontractor engagement and feedback during tendering. * Mentor estimators; review and quality-check work, providing constructive improvement actions. * Review tender information for completeness and highlight risks, gaps or opportunities. * Produce quantity take-offs from drawings/specifications (traditional methods or Causeway). * Analyse and normalise subcontractor/supplier quotations. * Benchmark against historical data and apply first-principles estimating. * Develop construction methodologies in support of bid strategy where appropriate. * Work with tender planners to ensure programmes meet or exceed client expectations. * Prepare clear pricing documents and internal review packs; ensure senior checks pre-submission. * Identify and assess commercial and delivery risks; propose mitigations. * Prepare client-facing tender submissions and support post-tender clarifications. * Support smooth handover to delivery/commercial teams on award. Candidate Profile Proven experience in a senior estimating capacity (Lead/Principal/Head of) within rail and civils (multi-discipline exposure desirable). Track record mentoring and developing estimating teams. Experience working on major frameworks and national bids. Strong relationships with clients, suppliers and internal stakeholders. Excellent written/verbal communication and presentation skills. Proactive, collaborative leader who drives continuous improvement and consistency. Competent with estimating software (e.g., Causeway) and MS Office. What We Offer Competitive salary (negotiable DOE). Company car or car allowance. 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (with service-linked increase). Contributory pension scheme and life insurance. Health cash plan & employee rewards. Ongoing personal and professional development. A safe, supportive working environment and employee forums to share your voice