Lead Estimator
Location: Office-based, with travel to other UK locations
Salary: Up to £90,000 (DOE)
Full-time | Permanent | 37.5 hours per week
DCS Engineering are currently supporting a growing engineering and technical organisation with the recruitment of a Lead Estimator to oversee the development of accurate, competitive cost estimates across a range of engineering and construction projects.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced estimating professional to take a lead role within a group-wide estimating function, driving consistency in processes, improving cost benchmarking and supporting commercial decision-making across projects from initial concept through to execution.
Job Responsibilities:
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Lead the preparation of cost estimates across engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and project management activities.
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Coordinate estimating inputs from engineering, commercial, procurement, construction and supply chain teams.
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Review tender documentation, specifications, drawings and scopes of work to establish accurate project costs.
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Evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations and prepare client-facing estimates, proposals and clarifications.
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Develop estimating methodologies, cost models, work breakdown structures and Basis of Estimate documentation.
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Identify cost risks, opportunities and contingency allowances to support robust, risk-adjusted estimates.
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Work with commercial teams to assess expected gross margins, profitability and overall project performance.
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Maintain cost databases, historical project data, productivity benchmarks and estimating norms.
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Validate estimates against previous projects, market trends and industry benchmarks.
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Lead, mentor and develop estimators, ensuring consistent standards and estimating procedures across the business.
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Support project delivery teams with budget development, cost forecasting, variations, change orders and claims.
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Drive continuous improvement across estimating processes, systems and governance.
The Candidate:
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Proven experience in a senior cost estimating role within engineering, construction or a related technical environment.
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Experience leading estimates for large-scale engineering and construction projects.
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Demonstrable experience leading, mentoring and developing an estimating team.
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Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Cost Engineering or a related discipline.
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Strong knowledge of cost estimating methodologies, cost modelling, quantity take-offs and benchmarking.
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Experience assessing project risks, contingency allowances and commercial cost exposure.
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Good understanding of tendering, bid management, contracts and commercial project requirements.
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Experience coordinating estimating inputs across multidisciplinary engineering and construction teams.
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Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and the ability to work to tight deadlines.
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Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to engage with technical teams, commercial stakeholders and senior management.
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Experience developing estimating procedures, cost databases and productivity benchmarks.
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Proactive approach to process improvement, governance and maintaining consistent estimating standards.
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Professional membership or qualifications such as RICS or AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP) would be advantageous.
INDENG
DCS Recruitment and all associated companies are committed to creating a working environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated fairly, regardless of gender, gender identity, disability, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, age, or nationality
Lead Estimator in Aberdeen employer: DCS Recruitment Careers
DCS Recruitment is an excellent employer for Structured Cabling Engineers, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion. With opportunities for professional growth and development, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while working on exciting projects in Altrincham. The company prioritises employee well-being and fosters a collaborative atmosphere, making it a rewarding place to build a career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Estimator in Aberdeen
✨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 DCS Recruitment Careers, 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 Lead Estimator at DCS Recruitment Careers.
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 DCS Recruitment Careers
✨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!
