At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop innovative cost estimates for major civil engineering projects.
- Company: Costain is a leader in smart infrastructure solutions across the UK's energy, water, and transport sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects that enhance lives and contribute to sustainable infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent; experience as an Estimator for major civils contractors required.
- Other info: Training provided for CCS 'Candy' Estimating system; must be a team player with a positive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Costain are currently working across several Water Industry accounts for the remaining AMP7 works and to mobilise AMP8 early works. The estimating function within the division is growing to facilitate the increased volume of works being forecast over the next 5 years, with projects varying from £5m to over £100m in value.
The Estimator will join the current Natural Resources Shape & Win estimating team and be responsible for reviewing the Project Content Documents (PCD) and proposed scope of works to assist in preparation of innovative solutions and Bottom-up-estimates for the schemes along with a Top-Down review from cost curves and Schedules of rates to assist in negotiation of the proposed Target Price.
Responsibilities- Develop estimates at all stages of project life cycle from feasibility and concept through to detailed design stage.
- Lead on the development of estimating strategies and present to senior stakeholders both internal and external.
- Work closely with the bid and/or project team and be responsible for the preparation of the Civils Estimate for each project.
- Preparation of the detailed scope from drawings, specifications and a PCD that details the outline scope.
- Identify any errors/omissions from the scope within the PCD.
- Preparation of quantities from drawings and specifications.
- Prepare abstract of material and sub-contract requirements for sourcing and pricing.
- Technical and commercial appraisal of material and subcontractor quotations to ensure full coverage of the scope is priced.
- In conjunction with the E&P bid team, participate in the generation of value-engineered solutions/alternatives throughout the bid stage design process and report on the cost effects of such solutions.
- Contribute to the identification of risk and pricing of risks throughout the bid.
- Attend site visits during the tender period.
- Use of estimating software as a basis of preparing the estimate.
- Preparation of WBS coded Bill of Quants and assumptions to ensure smooth handover to the delivery teams.
- Presentation of the estimate at bid team meetings and final settlement of bid, working to strict deadlines.
- Prepare Top-Down-Estimate using the Framework agreed schedules of rates and Cost curves for benchmarking as part of the review process.
- Degree level qualified or equivalent in a Civil Engineering related discipline.
- Preferably Chartered.
- Significant post graduate experience working as an Estimator for a major civils contractor.
- Experienced pricing medium to large value civil engineering projects.
- Familiar with Civil Engineering Method of Measurement.
- Customer Focused, Open and Honest, Safe and Environmentally aware.
- Good communication skills.
- Must be a good team player and adopt a positive "can-do" approach.
- Must be able to manage administration support and other members of the team to ensure successful delivery of the tender.
- Must be commercially aware and a lateral thinker with a knowledge of various Forms of Contract.
- Good technical understanding of Civil Engineering and the ability to promote alternative solutions.
- Knowledge of CCS 'Candy' Estimating system would be an advantage albeit training will be given.
About Us: Costain helps to improve people's lives with integrated, leading edge, smart infrastructure solutions across the UK's energy, water, transportation and defence markets. We help our clients improve their business performance by increasing capacity, improving customer service, safeguarding security, enhancing resilience, decarbonising and delivering increased efficiency. Our vision is to be the UK's leading smart infrastructure solutions company. We will achieve this by focusing on blue chip clients whose major spending plans are underpinned by strategic national needs, regulatory commitments, legislation or essential performance requirements. We offer our clients leading edge solutions that are digitally optimised through the following five services which cover the whole lifecycle of their assets: future-shaping strategic consultancy; consultancy and advisory; digital technology solutions; asset optimisation and complex programme delivery. Our culture and values underpin everything we do.
Civils Estimator - Home Based employer: Costain
Contact Detail:
Costain Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Civils Estimator - Home Based
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific estimating software mentioned in the job description, such as CCS 'Candy'. Even if you haven't used it before, showing a willingness to learn and adapt can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the civil engineering field, especially those who have experience as estimators. Engaging in conversations about industry trends and challenges can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with medium to large value civil engineering projects during interviews. Highlight specific examples where you successfully developed estimates or contributed to innovative solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest developments in the water industry and civil engineering methods. Being knowledgeable about current trends will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to contribute effectively to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Civils Estimator - Home Based
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Civils Estimator position. Understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in civil engineering and estimating. Emphasise your familiarity with estimating software and any significant projects you've worked on that align with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your skills in developing estimates and working collaboratively with teams.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, be sure to highlight skills such as risk identification, technical understanding of civil engineering, and your ability to present estimates effectively. These are crucial for the role and should be clearly articulated.
How to prepare for a job interview at Costain
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of the Civils Estimator role. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, such as developing estimates and preparing detailed scopes. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your technical understanding of civil engineering and estimating processes. Highlight any experience you have with estimating software, particularly CCS 'Candy', and be ready to explain how you've used it in past projects.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
The role requires innovative solutions and value-engineered alternatives. Think of examples from your previous work where you identified risks or errors and how you addressed them. This will show your ability to think critically and contribute positively to the team.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Since the position involves presenting estimates to senior stakeholders, practice how you would communicate complex information clearly and effectively. Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully engaged with clients or team members in the past.