Job description:
Estimator – Civil Engineering & Drainage
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Estimator to prepare and manage estimates for civil engineering, drainage, and rail-related works. The role involves working closely with tender teams to develop customer solutions, ensure feasibility, and secure profitable work aligned with company objectives.
The ideal candidate will be comfortable managing tenders up to £5m, liaising with senior stakeholders, and supporting site teams post-award.
Key ResponsibilitiesLead Estimates
Prepare estimates in line with company procedures and best practice
Identify opportunities and risks during the tender process
Liaise with business units, Bid Managers, and Planners to agree methodology and principles
Maintain a register of key assumptions and tender estimate files
Provide indicative pricing support for business development
Collect feedback from site teams to refine estimates
Present Estimates
Prepare estimating adjudication packs
Present the basis of estimates and key assumptions to stakeholders
Maintain notes from adjudication meetings and follow up on actions
Monitor customer negotiations and seek amended authority where needed
Handover to Site Teams
Prepare handover packs for operational and commercial teams
Support site teams with clarification on estimates and assumptions
Maintain notes from handover meetings
Skills & Experience
Engineering or commercial background
Experience in rail drainage, utilities, and civil engineering
Proven track record with tenders up to £5m
Chartered, Incorporated, or equivalent professional status
Numerate, IT literate, with proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Excel
Strong stakeholder management and customer engagement skills
Ability to collaborate across multiple project teams
Excellent research, proposal writing, and presentation skills
Knowledge of industry best practices and standards
Willingness to travel and conduct site visits
Key Relationships
Estimating Team
Engineering Team
Supply Chain Team
Commercial Team
Objectives & Targets
Win sufficient work to meet growth objectives
Develop consistent and coherent tender submissions using standard estimating assumptions
Support design and temporary works elements in tenders
Contribute to the overall tender win strategy alongside business unit teams