Surfacing Operations & Estimating Lead
Highways Surfacing Contractor – Gateshead/Hybrid
Salary - £50,000 - £70,000 + car/car allowance + package
Lemon Drizzle Recruitment has been exclusively appointed to support a North East -based highways surfacing contractor in the search for a Surfacing Operations & Estimating Lead. My client is looking for a commercially minded, technically strong professional to lead their estimating and pre-construction activity — while supporting live operations. Working in a small, close-knit team, you will be involved in a wide range of projects and price enquiries from an existing client portfolio alongside developing new client relationships.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on shaping work before it starts, improving delivery outcomes, and influencing people positively at every level.
What You’ll Do
* Lead surfacing estimating and pre-construction planning for highways projects
* Create accurate, practical programmes, methods, and pricing
* Provide technical expertise across asphalt surfacing operations
* Support site teams with guidance, problem-solving, and best practice
* Drive continuous improvement through post-job review and feedback
* Collaborate with Operations, Commercial, and Planning teams to shape delivery
* Mentor and develop colleagues, sharing your technical and commercial knowledge
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience in surfacing estimating and/or pre-construction
* Strong technical knowledge of highway surfacing operations
* Commercially aware with a delivery-focused mindset
* Collaborative, confident, and able to positively influence people at all levels
* Passionate about developing and supporting colleagues
Why You’ll Love Working Here
* Competitive salary from £50k - £70k plus car/car allowance and benefits, with progression based on performance
* Hybrid/flexible working
* Play a pivotal role in planning and delivering high-profile projects
* Work closely with senior operational leadership
* Join a supportive, close-knit team-focused culture with real opportunities for development
If you have experience in highways surface estimating and want to make a real impact on how highways surfacing work is planned and delivered, I want to hear from you.
Hiring Process
1. Initial call then Teams meeting with Rachel Scott
2. Shortlist and introduction to the client
3. In-person meeting with the hiring team
How to Apply
To learn more or express interest, please contact Rachel Scott at Lemon Drizzle Recruitment. All conversations are handled with complete confidentiality. Alternatively, apply via the link and I will be in touch