At a Glance
- Tasks: Create detailed cost estimates for mechanical engineering projects in the nuclear sector.
- Company: Leading engineering contractor in the UK nuclear industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with exposure to high-value infrastructure projects.
- Why this job: Contribute to critical energy projects while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; estimating experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Bristol (with intermittent travel to North Wales)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
To be considered for this role you need to already be based in the UK.
Overview
Baker Street Recruitment is working in partnership with a leading engineering contractor operating within the UK nuclear sector. Our client delivers complex, high-integrity engineering solutions across major infrastructure programmes and is continuing to expand its UK capability. We are seeking a Mechanical Engineering Estimator to support the preparation of accurate, commercially sound cost estimates across a portfolio of nuclear and industrial projects. This is an opportunity to work within a technically rigorous environment, contributing to projects that are critical to the UK’s long-term energy strategy.
The Role
You will be responsible for developing detailed cost estimates for mechanical engineering packages, supporting tender submissions, and early project definition. The role requires close collaboration with engineering, procurement, and delivery teams to ensure estimates are aligned with technical scope, programme requirements, and commercial objectives. The position is primarily based in Bristol, with periodic travel to North Wales to support project and manufacturing interfaces.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates covering materials, labour, fabrication, installation, and subcontract packages
- Interpret technical drawings, specifications, and scope documentation within a regulated environment
- Engage with internal stakeholders to validate scope, methodologies, and assumptions
- Source and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations
- Identify commercial risks, cost drivers, and value engineering opportunities
- Support the preparation of tender submissions, pricing schedules, and clarifications
- Maintain and develop cost databases and benchmarking tools
- Attend site visits and pre-tender meetings where required
Requirements
- Degree, HNC or HND in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline
- Proven experience in an estimating role within mechanical engineering, MEP, or industrial projects
- Understanding of mechanical systems such as pipework, fabrication, or process plant
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
- Commercial awareness and a structured, analytical approach
- Proficiency in Excel and estimating tools
Desirable
- Experience within nuclear, energy, or other highly regulated sectors
- Knowledge of relevant codes and standards (e.g. ASME, RCC-M)
- Familiarity with NEC or similar forms of contract
- Exposure to modularisation or offsite manufacturing
Benefits
- Opportunity to work on high-value, technically complex infrastructure projects
- Exposure to full project lifecycle within an engineering and delivery environment
- Clear growth trajectory within a sector aligned to net zero and energy security
- Flexible working environment with a balance of office and project exposure
Mechanical Engineering Estimator | Nuclear employer: Baker Street Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Baker Street Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineering Estimator | Nuclear
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the nuclear sector, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of mechanical systems. We recommend practising common interview questions related to estimating and project management to show you’re ready for the challenge.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up! Be proactive and reach out to companies directly, especially those in the nuclear sector. We encourage you to apply through our website to get your application noticed.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your skills with a portfolio! If you’ve worked on relevant projects, compile a portfolio that highlights your estimating work and technical expertise. We believe this can really set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineering Estimator | Nuclear
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical Engineering Estimator role. Highlight your relevant experience in estimating, especially within mechanical engineering or industrial projects. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working in the nuclear sector and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in interpreting technical drawings and using estimating tools. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make sure we know you’ve got the chops for the job!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Baker Street Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Mechanical Engineering Estimator, you'll need to be comfortable with numbers and cost estimates. Brush up on your Excel skills and be ready to discuss how you've developed detailed cost estimates in the past. Be prepared to share specific examples of projects where your estimates made a significant impact.
✨Understand the Technical Side
Familiarise yourself with mechanical systems relevant to the role, such as pipework and fabrication. Review any technical drawings or specifications you might encounter during the interview. Being able to interpret these documents will show that you can hit the ground running and collaborate effectively with engineering teams.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in engaging with internal stakeholders to validate project scopes and methodologies. Prepare to discuss how you’ve navigated commercial risks and identified cost drivers in previous roles. This will demonstrate your collaborative approach and understanding of the bigger picture in project delivery.
✨Showcase Your Industry Knowledge
Since this role is within the nuclear sector, it’s crucial to have a grasp of relevant codes and standards like ASME or RCC-M. If you have experience in highly regulated environments, make sure to mention it. This will not only show your expertise but also your commitment to safety and compliance in engineering projects.