Senior Estimator

Abergavenny, Gwent
Sphere Solutions

Senior Estimator

Abergavenny

Permanent role + benefits package

Role Purpose

As Senior Estimator, you will lead the pre-construction estimating function for medium to large civil engineering tenders. You will play a key role in securing new work through accurate, competitive and compliant cost planning and tendering, while mentoring the estimating team and enhancing estimating processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage full-lifecycle estimating for civil engineering tenders (earthworks, highways, utilities, structures)
• Analyse tender documentation (drawings, specs, contracts) to create detailed cost plans and pricing models
• Liaise with preconstruction, technical, commercial and delivery teams to develop method, programme, risk and opportunities
• Engage with supply chain and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations, build cost databases and benchmark rates
• Identify and manage risk, value engineering, margin assumptions and commercial controls within estimates
• Present estimating outputs to senior stakeholders (bid manager, commercial director) and support tender adjudication
• Hand-over successful tenders to delivery teams including assumptions, budget, risks and historical data
• Mentor and coach junior estimators and contribute to continuous improvement of estimating systems
• Maintain estimating documentation, registers of assumptions, tender review feedback and lessons learned

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• Significant experience (typically 5-10 years) as an estimator in civil engineering/infrastructure/construction
• Proven track record of pricing competitively and winning tenders for medium to large projects
• Strong commercial and contractual awareness (NEC3/NEC4 or relevant frameworks)
• High level of accuracy in cost planning, take-offs and risk assessment
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proficient in estimating software (e.g., Causeway, Candy) and Microsoft Office (Excel)
• Full UK Driving Licence and willingness to travel for site visits and client meetings

Desirable:

• Experience working in Wales or regional market knowledge
• Mentoring or managerial experience of junior estimating staff
• Familiarity with Tarmac/Griffiths systems and frameworks