Estimator | Civil Engineering & Construction | Fife This is more than an estimating position. It is an opportunity to work closely with a Managing Director who is actively shaping the next chapter of an established civil engineering and construction business. We have known this MD for over 20 years and can genuinely say he is highly regarded across the industry: commercially astute, straightforward to work with and committed to building strong, lasting relationships. He is bringing fresh energy to the business, evolving its strategy, strengthening its market presence and opening up new opportunities. Now, he is looking for an ambitious experienced Estimator who wants genuine influence, responsibility and a clear route to grow alongside the company. You might currently be an experienced estimator looking to work with someone where you feel more valued, or doing an operational role where you've been pricing work as part of that position and are interested in doing this as a full-time role. The opportunity You will take ownership of the estimating function, working directly with the MD on live opportunities, tender strategy and commercial decision-making. You will not simply be pricing work from a desk; you will have a voice in how bids are approached, risks are assessed and projects are positioned to win. There is also scope to help shape and develop the wider estimating capability, including coaching junior colleagues and helping build a robust team for the future. What you will be doing Reviewing tender documentation thoroughly and identifying the key commercial, technical and operational considerations. Leading tender reviews, identifying potential risks, and bid pricing to produce accurate, competitive and commercially sound submissions. Preparing programme and scheduling elements of estimates, including resource requirements, sequencing and project duration. Reviewing contractual requirements and ensuring a clear, effective handover from pre-construction into operations. Working closely with the Managing Director and senior leadership team to support business strategy and targeted growth. Coaching and developing junior team members, helping raise capability across the estimating function. Using industry-standard estimating and programming software to support high-quality bid submissions. What they are looking for Proven estimating experience within civil engineering, construction or a closely related contracting environment. Strong commercial judgement, with the ability to identify tender risks, opportunities and key contractual issues. Experience of programming, scheduling and resource planning within the tender process. A proactive, ambitious approach and the confidence to take ownership of a key function. The ability to support, coach and develop less experienced members of the team. Someone who enjoys working closely with decision-makers and wants to have a genuine impact on a growing business. If you are an Estimator looking for more ownership, more visibility and the chance to play a meaningful part in a business with momentum, this could be an excellent move. Legal Information: We act as an employment agency for permanent work and as an employment business for temporary work. For roles in the UK, applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. We value diversity and promote equality. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. We encourage and welcome applications from all areas of society and can discuss any reasonable adjustments to support your application
Estimator in Glenrothes employer: Contract Scotland
Join a well-established Bathgate-based developer that values its employees and fosters a collaborative work culture. With a strong focus on professional growth, this company offers excellent opportunities for career advancement while working on impactful projects in the residential and commercial sectors. Enjoy a supportive environment where your contributions are recognised, and you can thrive in a role that is pivotal to the company's future success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator in Glenrothes
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Contract Scotland, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Estimator at Contract Scotland.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Contract Scotland
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
