Senior Estimator

Hyreus is currently recruiting an experienced Senior Estimator for an exciting opportunity based in Cumbria with a leading Tier One civil engineering contractor operating within the power and nuclear sectors. The successful candidate will play a key role in the preparation and management of tenders and estimates for major civil engineering and infrastructure projects. Working closely with commercial, engineering, procurement, planning and operational teams, you will develop competitive and commercially robust bids, ensuring costs, risks and project requirements are accurately assessed from initial tender enquiry through to final submission. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced estimating professional to take on a senior position within a complex infrastructure environment, contributing to the successful delivery of significant projects across the power and nuclear sectors. Responsibilities * Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates and tender submissions for major civil engineering and infrastructure projects. * Review tender documentation, drawings, specifications and scope requirements to develop accurate and competitive estimates. * Prepare detailed cost build-ups covering labour, plant, materials, subcontractors, temporary works and project preliminaries. * Obtain, review and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations to ensure competitive and commercially sound pricing. * Work collaboratively with bid managers, commercial teams, planners, engineers and procurement colleagues to develop effective tender strategies. * Assess construction methodologies, programme requirements and resource needs to ensure estimates reflect practical delivery considerations. * Identify and evaluate commercial risks, opportunities, assumptions, exclusions and qualifications within tender submissions. * Support value engineering initiatives and identify opportunities to optimise costs without compromising quality, safety or technical requirements. * Prepare tender pricing documentation, cost reports and supporting information in line with client requirements and internal governance procedures. * Participate in tender reviews, bid meetings, settlement meetings and post-tender clarification discussions. * Liaise with clients, suppliers, subcontractors and other stakeholders to resolve pricing queries and obtain further information. * Maintain accurate estimating records, cost databases and historical project information to support future tendering activities. * Provide commercial and technical input into procurement decisions and supply chain assessments. * Support the handover of successful tenders to project delivery teams, ensuring estimates, assumptions and commercial risks are clearly communicated. * Provide guidance and support to junior estimating team members, promoting consistency and best practice across estimating activities. The Ideal Candidate * Proven experience as a Senior Estimator or Estimator within civil engineering, construction or major infrastructure projects. * Experience working for a Tier One contractor or within a large, complex project environment would be highly advantageous. * Previous experience in the power, nuclear, energy or other highly regulated sectors would be beneficial. * Strong understanding of civil engineering construction methods, materials, plant, labour and subcontractor pricing. * Demonstrable experience preparing detailed estimates and competitive tender submissions for complex projects. * Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, bills of quantities and tender documentation. * Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to identify cost risks, assess opportunities and develop effective pricing strategies. * Experience obtaining and evaluating supply chain quotations and negotiating with suppliers and subcontractors. * Understanding of construction programmes, resource planning, temporary works and project preliminaries. * Familiarity with relevant construction contracts, including NEC, would be advantageous. * Excellent analytical, numerical and problem-solving skills, with a strong attention to detail. * Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to contribute to tender reviews and commercial discussions. * Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and relevant estimating, cost management or project systems. * A relevant qualification in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management or a related discipline would be advantageous. * The ability to manage multiple tenders, meet deadlines and work effectively within a collaborative pre-construction environment