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- Tasks: Lead estimating for complex data centre projects and collaborate with clients and partners.
- Company: Join a leading design-build engineering firm focused on mission-critical infrastructure.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance incentives, health benefits, and generous paid time off.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the renewable energy sector while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in construction estimating, especially in data centres; strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Flexible remote work environment with a focus on work-life balance and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
An established national design–build engineering organization is seeking a Senior Estimator to join its preconstruction function. The company delivers technically complex, high-reliability facilities, with a strong emphasis on data centers and other mission-critical infrastructure. Projects range from new builds to upgrades of live operational sites, and the business is known for tightly managed risk, reliable delivery, and strong client relationships. The Senior Estimator will be a core member of the team, responsible for leading the full estimating lifecycle on large, sophisticated projects. This position is best suited to someone with deep experience in mission‑critical environments and a strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and related systems.
What This Role Offers
- Significant scope to build long‑term relationships with clients, design partners, and trade contractors
- A culture that backs up commitments made to clients and colleagues
- A clear link between your leadership impact and your financial rewards
Primary Objectives
- Produce consistent, accurate conceptual and detailed estimates that closely align with final construction costs
- Develop realistic budgets for major MEP and mission‑critical systems (e.g., power, cooling, controls)
- Reduce commercial risk by closing scope gaps, clarifying assumptions, and reviewing subcontractor proposals in detail
- Maintain and grow a strong national network of specialist subcontractors and suppliers in the data center and mission‑critical space
- Support the Head of Preconstruction with timely, structured cost information to accelerate budgeting, value engineering, and negotiations
- Help deliver a high‑quality experience for clients throughout preconstruction
- Contribute to building the company’s reputation in its target markets
Cost Planning and Analysis
- Prepare clear, well‑structured estimates at all design stages (from early concept through construction documents) for new data center builds, expansions, and critical fit‑outs
- Perform detailed quantity take‑offs and pricing for mission‑critical MEP systems, including UPS systems, generators, switchgear, cooling equipment, fire protection, and building management systems
- Define and price general conditions, general requirements, and other indirect or soft costs
Preconstruction and Risk Management
- Recommend cost‑saving and value‑enhancing options while protecting performance, redundancy, and reliability
- Analyze risk and uncertainty in estimates, including escalation, market conditions, and key technical assumptions
- Lead internal estimate review sessions and support presentations to senior leadership and clients
Trade Partner and Supplier Engagement
- Issue requests for pricing, collect and organize proposals, and evaluate bids for completeness, competitiveness, and scope coverage
- Develop strong working relationships with specialist trade partners in relevant geographies and sectors
- Draft clear scope narratives and bid instructions to ensure alignment across bidders
Reporting and Commercial Support
- Create concise summaries, breakdowns, and cost reports suitable for both technical and non‑technical stakeholders
- Present budgets and estimates externally and support the Head of Preconstruction in negotiations and client meetings
- Provide robust front‑end financial inputs to support business development and project pursuit efforts
- Contribute to tools, templates, and processes that improve estimating accuracy and efficiency
- Support the commercial handover from preconstruction to project delivery, helping ensure continuity of financial objectives and assumptions
Qualifications
- At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in construction estimating, with substantial time spent on data centers or other mission‑critical facilities in a design–build or EPC environment
- Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a closely related field preferred
- Advanced proficiency with modern estimating and quantity take‑off tools (e.g., Bluebeam, On‑Screen Takeoff, Assemble, or similar)
- Familiarity with BIM‑enabled workflows and use of models to support quantity take‑off and cost planning
- Strong technical understanding of data center infrastructure, major equipment, and cost drivers
Additional preferred experience includes work on one or more of the following
- Power generation projects
- Electric utility or substation work
- Industrial process facilities (such as food or product processing)
- Pharmaceutical or central utility plant projects
Skills and Attributes
- Strong analytical, numerical, and problem‑solving skills
- Clear and confident written and verbal communication
- Ability to collaborate across disciplines in a fast‑moving design–build setting
- High attention to detail combined with a proactive, team‑oriented mindset
- Competence with tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar platforms
- Comfortable reading and interpreting drawings, specifications, and technical documentation at a high level of detail
Working Style
The environment is fast‑paced and dynamic, with a focus on delivery and accountability. Team members are expected to manage their time and working location to meet project and client needs while maintaining a healthy work‑life balance.
Compensation and Benefits
- Base salary targeted above typical market ranges for similar roles, adjusted for experience and qualifications
- Eligibility for performance‑based incentives tied to both individual and company results
- Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions
- Income protection, life insurance, and access to employee support programs
- Flexible spending or similar pre‑tax benefit options
- Generous paid time off and strong support for continued learning and professional growth
About Us
Climate17 is a purpose‑led, international renewable energy & sustainability recruitment consulting firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition and market insight services to organizations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and those working towards the decarbonization of the energy sector.
Inclusive Application Process
Climate17 is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We aim to increase diversity across all areas and as such, we are committed to partnering with clients and candidates to create an inclusive and sustainable regenerative world. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, race, gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, age, or whether or not they have a disability. If you require additional support, equipment, or resources to participate in the job application or interview process, please let us know.
Director of Estimating - Data Centers in Leeds employer: Climate17
Contact Detail:
Climate17 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Estimating - Data Centers in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who have experience with data centres. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Knowing their recent work in mission-critical environments will help you stand out. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in what they do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Estimating. Highlight your skills in managing risk and delivering accurate estimates, as these are key to impressing potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Estimating - Data Centers in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Estimating role. Highlight your experience in data centres and mission-critical environments, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with the job description. Use specific examples from your past work that relate to estimating, budgeting, and risk management in complex projects.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right place and helps us keep track of all candidates efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Climate17
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Estimating, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in producing accurate estimates. Brush up on your knowledge of MEP systems and be ready to discuss how you approach quantity take-offs and pricing. Prepare examples from your past work that showcase your ability to manage costs effectively.
✨Build Relationships
This role emphasises strong client and trade partner relationships. Before the interview, think about how you've successfully built and maintained these connections in previous roles. Be prepared to share specific stories that highlight your networking skills and how they contributed to project success.
✨Showcase Your Technical Savvy
Familiarity with estimating tools and BIM workflows is crucial. Make sure you can talk confidently about the software you've used, like Bluebeam or On-Screen Takeoff. If possible, bring along examples of your work that illustrate your technical capabilities and understanding of data centre infrastructure.
✨Prepare for Risk Management Questions
Given the focus on reducing commercial risk, expect questions about how you've handled uncertainty in past projects. Think about specific instances where you identified risks and implemented strategies to mitigate them. This will show your analytical skills and proactive mindset, which are key for this role.