At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead estimating for large-scale construction projects and mentor a dynamic team.
- Company: Join a leading construction firm in Buckinghamshire with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities to work on mission-critical infrastructure and develop your skills.
- Why this job: Shape the future of industrial projects and make a real impact in construction.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in estimating and strong technical knowledge in construction.
The predicted salary is between 78000 - 156000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to join our construction team based in Buckinghamshire. The successful candidate will take ownership of the estimating function for large, complex industrial and mission-critical projects, including warehouses, manufacturing plants, and data centres.
The Lead Estimator will play a critical role in shaping bid strategies, producing accurate and competitive cost estimates, and supporting the successful conversion of tenders into live projects. This role requires strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness, and the ability to lead and mentor an estimating team.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates and tender submissions for large-scale construction projects.
- Review drawings, specifications, schedules, and other tender documentation to identify risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
- Develop accurate cost plans, budgets, and cash flow forecasts at various design stages (concept to construction issue).
- Coordinate and analyse subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring scope coverage and commercial compliance.
- Produce clarifications, exclusions, and value propositions to support competitive tenders.
- Lead risk and opportunity reviews, ensuring assumptions are clearly documented.
- Define and lead estimating strategies aligned with project complexity, programme, and client requirements.
- Support bid management activities, including tender interviews, presentations, and client meetings.
- Work closely with Commercial, Design, Planning, and Operations teams to ensure estimates are robust and deliverable.
- Contribute to bid/no-bid decisions and workload forecasting.
- Provide leadership, mentoring, and technical guidance to estimators and assistant estimators.
- Review and challenge estimates prepared by others to ensure accuracy, consistency, and best practice.
- Drive continuous improvement in estimating processes, systems, and benchmarking.
- Maintain and develop cost databases, rates, and historical project data.
- Act as a key point of contact during pre-construction for clients, consultants, and supply chain partners.
- Support early contractor involvement (ECI) and two-stage tender processes.
- Build strong relationships with key subcontractors and suppliers in the industrial and data centre sectors.
- Large-scale logistics and distribution warehouses
- Manufacturing and industrial facilities
- Data centres and mission-critical infrastructure
- Steel frame, concrete, fit-out, MEP-intensive projects
- Proven experience as a Lead Estimator or Senior Estimator within the construction industry.
- Strong background in industrial, warehouse, manufacturing, or data centre projects.
- Ability to price complex, high-value projects with significant MEP and structural elements.
- Excellent understanding of construction methods, materials, and current market rates.
- Strong commercial and contractual awareness.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications confidently.
- Experience leading and reviewing estimates prepared by others.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience working on data centre or mission-critical environments.
- Familiarity with two-stage tenders, negotiated contracts, and ECI.
- Knowledge of modern procurement routes and value engineering techniques.
- Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related discipline.
- Estimating software (eg Causeway, Candy, Conquest, or similar)
- Excel (advanced level)
- Take-off and digital measurement tools
- ERP/commercial management systems
- Detail-oriented with a strong analytical mindset
- Commercially astute and solutions-focused
- Confident decision-maker with the ability to challenge assumptions
- Collaborative leader with a proactive and professional approach
Lead Estimator in Gerrards Cross employer: e-Frontiers
Join a dynamic and innovative construction team in Buckinghamshire as a Lead Estimator, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of large-scale industrial projects. Our company fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee development, offering mentorship and growth opportunities while providing competitive salaries and benefits. With a focus on complex and mission-critical projects, you will be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your expertise and encourages continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Estimator in Gerrards Cross
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the Lead Estimator role. Highlight your skills in estimating, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement to make a lasting impression.
✨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 that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Estimator in Gerrards Cross
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Estimator role. Highlight your experience with large-scale projects and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of your estimating experience and how you've successfully led projects in the past. We love a good story!
Show Off Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your technical skills, especially with estimating software and construction methods. We’re keen on candidates who can confidently interpret drawings and specifications, so make sure to showcase that expertise!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at e-Frontiers
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Lead Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to produce accurate cost estimates. Brush up on your knowledge of current market rates and construction methods. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully estimated costs and how you approached those challenges.
✨Master the Technical Details
Familiarise yourself with the technical drawings and specifications relevant to large-scale projects. During the interview, be ready to interpret these documents and explain how you would identify risks and opportunities. This shows that you can think critically about the estimating process.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and leading a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've guided others in the past. Discuss your approach to reviewing estimates and driving continuous improvement within your team. Highlight any successful projects where your leadership made a difference.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Strong communication skills are key for this position. Think of instances where you've built relationships with clients or subcontractors. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with stakeholders during the pre-construction phase and support bid management activities effectively.
