Civil Estimator (Freelance - Inside IR35)
Location: Falmer, Near Brighton
Overview:
A multi-disciplinary joint venture is delivering a significant Design & Build Framework within the water sector. The programme includes a wide range of upgrade and improvement works to drinking water and wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations, with individual project values ranging from £250K to £20M.
Role Summary:
As a freelance Civil Estimator, you will focus primarily on the civil elements of tendering activities. This includes producing budget estimates at early stages, supporting target price setting, and working collaboratively across multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced, framework-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop civil budget estimates during the optioneering stage to support contract award decisions
Appraise civil engineering solutions, ensuring compliance with the project brief and client specifications
Produce activity schedules or BOQs aligned with the client's cost capture system
Integrate health, safety, and environmental considerations within the estimates
Conduct site visits across the South East as required
Liaise with M&E estimators to integrate temporary treatment processes into the estimate
Obtain and technically/commercially evaluate subcontractor, plant, material, and labour quotations
Build bottom-up estimates using first principles and agreed standard rates
Interpret construction programmes and develop basic critical path schedules to inform cost and delivery
Estimate indirect costs such as staffing, site establishment, and welfare
Support the Estimating Manager during internal governance and reviews
Identify and record project risks and opportunities during estimate development
Attend tender settlement meetings and post-tender commercial discussions with clients
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance estimating processes and efficiency
Essential Skills & Experience:
Strong understanding of civil construction (e.g., earthworks, RC structures, roads, tanks, pipework, ductwork, and temporary works)
Qualification in Civil Engineering or relevant discipline
Ability to manage multiple concurrent bids and meet tight deadlines
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
Demonstrated experience in producing bottom-up estimates
Desirable:
Experience in the water or utilities sector
Understanding of sewage and water treatment processes and associated mechanical systems
Previous experience working in multi-disciplinary engineering teams
CSCS card holder (current and relevant)