MEP Engineer (Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing) – Estimation & Project Support in Cardiff

We are seeking an experienced MEP Engineer with strong estimating and cost-planning expertise to join our technical team. This full-time, UK-based role will support the preparation of accurate bids, budgets and technical proposals across commercial, residential, industrial and infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will collaborate with design, procurement and construction teams to develop reliable cost estimates, risk assessments and value-engineering solutions that support competitive tendering and effective project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Estimating & cost planning – prepare detailed MEP cost estimates, take-offs and cost plans for tenders and internal budgeting; ensure quantities, rates and assumptions are clearly documented and auditable.
• Bid preparation – develop commercially robust bid packages and technical proposals including scope breakdowns, pricing schedules, exclusions and clarifications; coordinate with commercial and proposal teams to meet submission deadlines.
• Design review & coordination – review engineering drawings and specifications to validate design intent, identify value-engineering opportunities and resolve technical or cost-related issues with design teams.
• Supply chain engagement – obtain and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations; assess scope consistency, lead times and commercial terms to support selection and negotiation.
• Risk & contingency management – identify project-specific risks and develop contingency allowances; prepare sensitivity analyses and write-ups to support management decisions.
• Cost control & reporting – support development of early cost forecasts and lifecycle cost models; provide input to monthly cost reports and assist project teams in tracking changes against baseline budgets.
• Technical input – provide MEP discipline knowledge for mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems including plant sizing, material selection, installation methodologies and testing requirements.
• Standards & compliance – ensure estimates and proposed solutions comply with relevant UK and industry standards, regulations and client specifications.
• Continuous improvement – contribute to development of estimating templates, rate libraries and best-practice processes; share lessons learned from tenders and projects to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Stakeholder liaison – communicate effectively with clients, design consultants, project managers and supply chain partners to clarify scope, resolve queries and support commercial negotiations.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience – proven experience (typically 5+ years) in MEP estimating, cost planning or quantity surveying roles within building services or construction environments covering commercial, residential, industrial or infrastructure projects.
• Qualifications – degree or HND in building services, mechanical/electrical engineering, quantity surveying or equivalent; relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CIOB, RICS, IMechE, IET) are desirable.
• Technical skills – strong understanding of MEP systems, materials and installation practices; ability to interpret drawings (CAD/Revit) and specifications for estimating purposes.
• Commercial skills – excellent numerical and commercial awareness with demonstrated experience preparing competitive bids, rates and tender clarifications.
• Software proficiency – competent with estimating software and spreadsheets (e.g. CostX, BuildSoft, Microsoft Excel); familiarity with BIM workflows and ERP commercial modules is advantageous.
• Attention to detail – high accuracy when calculating quantities, rates and assumptions, with clear documentation of methodology and risk allowances.
• Communication & teamwork – effective written and verbal communication skills; able to work collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams and present cost information to stakeholders.
• Time management – able to manage competing priorities and deliver accurate estimates to tight tender deadlines.
• Professional conduct – demonstrates integrity, confidentiality and a pragmatic approach to commercial decision-making.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and role responsibilities.
• Development opportunities – support for professional development and access to training in estimating, BIM and technical disciplines.
• Collaborative environment – join a multidisciplinary team with clear processes and supportive leadership.
• Flexible working – consideration of hybrid working arrangements where operationally appropriate.
• Benefits – a comprehensive package including pension, holiday entitlement and other employee benefits aligned to role level.

Application

To apply, please submit an updated CV outlining relevant MEP estimating and cost-planning experience, qualifications and notice period. Applications are welcomed from all suitably qualified candidates and will be considered without discrimination.