A leading infrastructure and highways maintenance business is looking for an experienced Target Cost Estimator to join its commercial management team on a major term maintenance highways contract in Milton Keynes.
This is a senior specialist role, responsible for preparing robust target cost estimates and managing monthly valuations under NEC3/NEC4 target-cost arrangements, ensuring accuracy, transparency and value for money.
Reporting to the Commercial Manager, you will play a key role in protecting the business's commercial position while fostering a collaborative, open-book approach with the Client and delivery teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed target cost estimates using Schedules of Rates and agreed pricing mechanisms, covering labour, plant, materials, subcontractors, overheads and risk.
- Price and submit Early Warnings and Compensation Events, working closely with Quantity Surveyors to protect contractual entitlement.
- Prepare and submit monthly applications for payment, ensuring 100% of completed work value is captured with full supporting evidence.
- Record and manage costs within systems such as Causeway CPA, SAP and Confirm, maintaining real-time visibility of actual versus target cost.
- Monitor variances and escape risks early, supporting proactive commercial decision-making.
- Manage and verify subcontractor costs and payments, ensuring accuracy and alignment with project budgets.
- Work collaboratively with operational teams to clarify scopes and improve estimate accuracy.
- Communicate openly and professionally with the Client’s commercial representatives.
- Mentor junior commercial team members and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
- Strong numerical, analytical and organisational skills.
- Hands-on experience working with NEC3/NEC4 (Option C) contracts.
- Advanced Excel skills and strong capability with cost-management systems.
- Strong experience in a commercial or estimating role within the highways or civil engineering sector.
- An HNC, HND, or Degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management (or equivalent practical experience).
- Experience using industry software such as Causeway CPA, SAP, and Confirm.
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Estimator in Milton Keynes employer: DCS Engineering
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