Your new company
You will be joining a principal and family-owned civil engineering contractor based in Birmingham operating within the rail industry. Working on major long-term programmes and framework agreements, this well-established and multi-accredited contractor plays a key role in enhancing critical infrastructure, supporting the delivery of large-scale rail, transport and urban connectivity improvements, delivering projects valued between £500k - £2m. They offer a strong pipeline of work for at least the next 6 years as well as excellent opportunities for career progression and professional development. As part of their continued growth, they are actively seeking an Estimator to join their team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly successful and growing principal contractor with a family-like feel.
This is a full-time permanent position based out of their Birmingham office with hybrid working.
Contracted hours: 40 hours per week, Mon - Fri
Your new role
As Estimator, you will prepare accurate and commercially competitive estimates while leading procurement activities for rail projects. Combining estimating, supply chain management and procurement strategy, you will ensure projects are priced competitively, aligned with programme requirements and positioned to deliver strong commercial performance.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Preparing detailed cost estimates, pricing schedules and tender submissions
- Reviewing drawings, specifications and tender documentation
- Developing cost plans covering labour, plant, materials and subcontract works
- Leading procurement strategies and sourcing materials, plant and subcontractors
- Obtaining and evaluating supplier quotations
- Negotiating commercial terms and managing supplier performance
- Aligning procurement activity with project programmes and delivery requirements
- Identifying value engineering opportunities
- Managing purchase orders, procurement tracking and reporting
- Supporting budgeting, cost control and change management
- Monitoring market pricing, supply chain risks and industry trends
What you'll need to succeed
In order to be successful, you must have:
- Previous estimating experience within the construction, infrastructure or rail sectors
- Understanding of cost planning, pricing and procurement processes
- Ability to manage supplier relationships and negotiate effective commercial terms
- Strong commercial awareness and analytical capability
- Full UK driving licence.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will receive:
- Starting salary up to £65,000 per annum (negotiable depending on experience)
- Company car or car allowance (£5,700 per annum)
- 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays
- Contributory pension scheme
- Hybrid working (2 days' remote per week) and flexible working arrangements
- Life assurance
- Private medical cover
- Fuel card
- Health cash plan
- Sick pay
- Free car parking
- Funded professional membership (e.g. RICS, ICE or similar)
- Fully funded role-relevant training and professional development
- Long service awards
- Clear pathways for career progression
- Exposure to high-profile and rewarding projects
- Supportive and collaborative work environment
- Opportunity to grow and progress your career with an employee-first and family-owned principal contractor and more.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role and meet the criteria above, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Please note: applicants must hold existing UK work authorisation; visa sponsorship cannot be provided for this position.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
Estimator - Rail in Birmingham employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers
Hays Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for SEN SLD/PMLD teachers in the Hounslow/Hillingdon area. With access to exclusive vacancies, ongoing professional development, and a dedicated consultant to guide your career, you will find ample opportunities for growth while making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with special educational needs. Join us to be part of a community that values inclusivity and fosters both personal and professional development.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator - Rail in Birmingham
✨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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited 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 Estimator - Rail at Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited 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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited 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!
