COMPANY OVERVIEW
Our client is a well-established civil engineering contractor with a strong and growing presence across the UK and Irish infrastructure markets. Operating as a Tier 2 contractor, they have built a reputation over many years for delivering technically complex, high-value civil programmes with a consistent focus on quality, safety, and commercial performance.
The business is particularly recognised for its expertise in highways and road infrastructure, having successfully delivered a sustained pipeline of major schemes across both markets. Their long-standing relationships with key framework clients and public sector bodies reflect the trust they have earned through repeated delivery at scale and programme complexity.
With a strong order book and continued investment in both people and capability, the company is in an excellent position for continued growth. Senior hires are being made across pre-construction and commercial functions to strengthen the foundations for this next phase — creating a genuine opportunity for experienced professionals to join at a pivotal moment and make a meaningful impact.
This is a business that values its people and invests in their development. There is a clear and structured approach to career progression, and leaders within the organisation are given the autonomy, resources, and support they need to perform at the highest level.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT & PROJECTS
You will be joining the pre-construction function of a business operating at the upper end of the civil infrastructure sector, working on major highways schemes and road programmes that require sophisticated estimating capability and strong commercial judgement. Projects range up to £250M in value, covering both competitive tender and framework delivery routes.
The estimating team plays a central role in the business — sitting at the interface between business development, commercial management, and operational delivery. You will work closely with senior leadership, project directors, and commercial teams to produce high-quality bids that are both technically credible and commercially competitive.
Based in Glasgow, you will be well-placed to support the firm's activity across Scotland and the broader UK and Irish markets. The role offers a broad remit and genuine influence over how the estimating function develops, with scope to build and shape a team around you as the pipeline grows.
The working environment is professional, collaborative, and delivery-focused. There is a strong sense of shared purpose within the pre-construction team, and a real appetite from leadership to invest in the tools, processes, and people needed to win and deliver work at the highest level.
RESPONSIBILITIES
* Lead the preparation and submission of competitive tenders for major civil infrastructure schemes, including highways and road programmes up to £250M
* Manage the full estimating process from initial enquiry and risk review through to tender submission and post-tender negotiation
* Oversee and develop the estimating team, ensuring consistent standards of quality, accuracy, and commercial rigour across all submissions
* Collaborate closely with pre-construction, commercial, and operational teams to ensure estimates are buildable, well-reasoned, and aligned with delivery strategy
* Review and assess subcontractor and supplier pricing, developing strong market relationships to support competitive submissions
* Contribute to bid strategy, win/loss reviews, and continuous improvement of the estimating function
* Support senior leadership with cost planning, feasibility assessments, and early-stage commercial advice on prospective schemes
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of market rates, ground conditions, and sector pricing trends relevant to civil infrastructure delivery
WHAT YOU NEED
* Proven experience as an Estimating Manager or Senior Estimator within a civils or highways contractor environment
* Strong track record of leading tenders on major civil infrastructure schemes, ideally including highways, roads, or earthworks programmes
* Solid understanding of civil construction methodology, procurement routes, and commercial risk assessment
* Experience managing or mentoring an estimating team, with the ability to develop people and drive quality across a function
* Proficiency with industry-standard estimating software (Candy, Conquest, or similar) and confident use of Excel for cost modelling
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills — comfortable presenting and defending commercial positions to clients and senior leadership
* Degree or HND qualified in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline; candidates with equivalent experience will also be considered
WHAT YOU'LL GET IN RETURN
This role comes with a base salary of £100,000, supplemented by a company vehicle and fully funded accommodation — making it an exceptionally well-rounded package for the right candidate. You will be joining a business with a strong and growing pipeline of work, with genuine scope to progress into a senior leadership role as the function expands. EU citizens are actively encouraged to apply; the business provides full visa sponsorship and comprehensive immigration support to ensure the transition is as straightforward as possible.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this role, please send an up-to-date CV via the Apply Now button.
For a confidential discussion, you can also contact Patrick McGrath on +353 1270 9454 / +44 7535 290168 or email