Estimator – Civil Engineering & Drainage

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