At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Estimator, shaping major infrastructure projects with precise cost estimates.
- Company: OCU Group is a leading utility engineering contractor in the UK, focused on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment, career development opportunities, and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects that make a real impact in the Power, Electrical, Renewable, and Civils sectors.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction estimating, knowledge of NEC contracts, and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: A full UK driving licence is essential for site visits.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join Our Growing Team as an Estimator – Power | Electrical | Renewable | Civils
Borehamwood | Full Time | Driving Licence Required
Are you a driven Estimator with experience in the construction industry and a passion for precision, problem-solving, and project success? Due to continued success in securing new projects, OCU Group is expanding—and we’re looking for talented Estimators to support the pre-construction phase of some of the UK’s most exciting infrastructure developments.
Your Role:
As an Estimator at OCU, you’ll play a key role in shaping the early success of major Power, Electrical, Renewable, and Civils projects. Your focus will be on developing accurate, detailed, and competitive cost estimates that ensure each project is commercially viable and aligned with our clients’ expectations.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Analysing bid specifications, drawings, and project documents to understand scope and requirements.
- Conducting detailed quantity take-offs to assess labour, material, and equipment needs.
- Preparing estimates from first principles.
- Collaborating with subcontractors to source competitive, timely pricing.
- Identifying and communicating project risks, and proposing smart mitigation strategies.
- Attending site visits during tender stages to gather vital insights for accurate bids.
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven experience as an Estimator in construction, with a strong background in Power, Electrical, Renewable or Civil Engineering projects.
- Knowledge of NEC3 / NEC4 / FIDIC contracts.
- Proficiency in estimating software and advanced Excel skills.
- Excellent attention to detail, analytical mindset, and ability to interpret complex drawings/specs.
- Strong communication skills – both verbal and written.
- Full UK driving licence (essential due to site visits).
Why Join OCU Group? Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the UK’s fastest-growing utility engineering contractors, partnering with major clients in power, water, telecoms, and rail. We’re committed to developing our people and providing a supportive environment where you can take control of your career.
We don’t just aim to be successful—we choose to be. We are OCU – One Company United. We’re proud to celebrate difference and value diverse backgrounds. Everyone is encouraged to bring their full, authentic selves to work.
Estimator employer: OCU Group Ltd
Contact Detail:
OCU Group Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific types of projects OCU Group is involved in, such as Power, Electrical, Renewable, and Civils. Understanding their recent projects can help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of NEC3, NEC4, and FIDIC contracts, as these are crucial for the role. Being able to discuss these contracts confidently will show that you’re well-prepared and knowledgeable about industry standards.
✨Tip Number 3
Make sure to highlight any experience you have with estimating software and advanced Excel skills. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used these tools in past roles to improve accuracy and efficiency in your estimates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential site visit discussions by thinking about how you would approach gathering insights for accurate bids. This could involve considering what specific information you would look for and how you would communicate this back to your team.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as an Estimator in the construction industry, particularly focusing on Power, Electrical, Renewable, or Civil Engineering projects. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for precision and problem-solving. Mention your familiarity with NEC3/NEC4/FIDIC contracts and your proficiency in estimating software, as these are key requirements for the role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your analytical mindset and attention to detail. Provide examples of how you've successfully interpreted complex drawings and specifications in previous roles.
Showcase Communication Abilities: Since strong communication skills are essential, include instances where you effectively collaborated with subcontractors or communicated project risks. This will demonstrate your ability to work well within a team and manage stakeholder expectations.
How to prepare for a job interview at OCU Group Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your proficiency in cost estimation. Brush up on your knowledge of quantity take-offs and be prepared to discuss how you approach developing accurate estimates from first principles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Contracts
Make sure you understand NEC3, NEC4, and FIDIC contracts. Being able to discuss these in detail will show that you have the necessary background and can navigate the complexities of project requirements.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience with estimating software and advanced Excel skills. Consider bringing examples of how you've used these tools to improve accuracy and efficiency in your previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing project risks and mitigation strategies, as this will be crucial during the interview.