Your new company
A leading infrastructure contractor is seeking an experienced Estimator to support the successful delivery of a major civil engineering project in the South West. This is an excellent opportunity to join an established project team delivering complex works within a fast-paced infrastructure environment.
Your new role
As Estimator, you will be responsible for preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for a range of civil engineering works. Working closely with commercial, operational and pre-construction teams, you will review tender documentation, assess project risks and opportunities, engage with suppliers and subcontractors, and develop pricing submissions from first principles.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Preparing detailed cost estimates and tender submissions.
- Reviewing drawings, specifications and contract documents.
- Obtaining and evaluating supplier and subcontractor quotations.
- Developing Bills of Quantities and pricing schedules.
- Identifying commercial risks and value engineering opportunities.
- Supporting bid reviews, tender adjudications and project handovers.
- Liaising with delivery, commercial and design teams throughout the bidding process.
- Monitoring market trends, labour rates and material costs.
What you'll need to succeed
- Previous experience working as an Estimator within civil engineering or infrastructure.
- Strong understanding of NEC contracts.
- Ability to build estimates from first principles.
- Experience pricing works such as earthworks, drainage, structures, reinforced concrete or general civils packages.
- Strong commercial awareness and analytical skills.
- Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines.
What you'll get in return
- Immediate start available.
- Long-term freelance contract.
- Opportunity to work on a major infrastructure scheme.
- Competitive day rate.
- Exposure to a large-scale project with a reputable contractor.
- Supportive project environment and potential for further opportunities upon completion of the assignment.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.
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.
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
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Careers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator in Plymouth
✨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 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!
