[GAS-005] Estimator - Manchester

Job Opportunity: Estimator at IES Utilities Group Ltd in Manchester.

Working Hours: Full time - Monday to Friday / Part time considered.

Rate: Competitive rate per day (dependent on experience).

Contract Type: Self-employed (CIS) or PAYE, long-term opportunity.

IES are a fast-growing contractor within the utility sector with a number of major clients across five business divisions. We work on multi-discipline projects within engineering, civils, and construction works across the UK.

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated, experienced, skilled Estimator to join our team within IES Utilities Group Ltd, based at our Head Office located within Manchester. This is a key role supporting the pre-contract and delivery of critical civil and mechanical projects across the UK.

As an Estimator, you will be responsible for producing accurate cost estimates, managing tender submissions, and ensuring projects are delivered within budget and on schedule. This role will work across a range of projects, collaborating closely with the project management team, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients to ensure competitive and realistic pricing. You will analyse project plans, specifications, and other documentation to provide detailed cost estimates for materials, labour, and equipment. Additionally, you will manage the preparation of tender and contract documents, ensuring that all financial aspects of the project are aligned with the clients' requirements detailed within their scoping documentation.

The role offers long-term stability and the opportunity for career progression, with potential growth into regional responsibilities within IES. You will be working alongside the IES commercial team, contributing to the success of projects across the UK.

We are ideally looking for someone with a proven track record in estimating for civil and mechanical projects, strong commercial acumen, and excellent communication skills. This role provides a great opportunity for someone based in or near Manchester, looking to take on a challenging and rewarding position in a rapidly growing company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and analyse cost estimates for civil and mechanical works based on project plans, specifications, and other documentation.
• Develop accurate and competitive tender submissions, ensuring alignment with client requirements and project objectives.
• Perform financial analysis on current and upcoming projects, including pricing, cost breakdowns, and market trends.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, and clients to ensure cost-effective and value-driven project proposals.
• Manage subcontractor relationships and oversee sub-contract pricing and agreements.
• Identify and recommend cost-effective solutions and value engineering opportunities to optimise project margins.
• Ensure all estimation activities adhere to project timelines and budgets.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of materials, labour costs, and industry trends to inform accurate pricing.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating methods, tools, and processes.
• Pre-check suppliers and subcontractors prior to engagement.

Bid Support:

• Actively participate in the pre-tendering process, including site visits, risk assessments, and clarification of scope.
• Obtain 3-point estimations from within the supply chain, ensuring competitive and realistic pricing.
• Evaluate project risks and opportunities, incorporating them into the pricing strategy.
• Develop detailed cost models and estimates for all aspects of projects, including civil, mechanical, and critical infrastructure.
• Prepare comprehensive tender submissions, including cost breakdowns, schedules, and risk registers.

Project Lifecycle Support:

• Support project teams with resource pricing and allocation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Promote and participate in post project reviews / lessons learned.
• Secure fixed pricing within tender submissions after contract award to mitigate cost fluctuations.
• Monitor project progress and identify potential cost variances.
• Proactively identify and implement cost-saving measures.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience as an Estimator within the utilities or construction industry.
• In-depth knowledge of civil, mechanical, and critical infrastructure estimation principles and practices.
• Strong understanding of risk management methodologies and their application to project costing.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant estimating software (Candy, Causeway, Excel, Estimator 360, blueprint or equivalent).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Estimating down to level 3 detail.

Education and Qualifications:

• A degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or a related field is preferable but not essential.
• Proficient in NEC 3/4 and the various options A, C, E and F.
• Proven experience as an Estimator within the construction or utilities sectors, particularly in civil and mechanical projects.
• Strong proficiency in MS Office, Excel, and estimating software.
• Knowledge of sustainability principles and their application to project costing.
• Comfortable with site visits and working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

If you're seeking a new challenging opportunity within a dynamic team that has development and career progression then apply today to join IES and make a fantastic contribution in helping to maintain and build new key infrastructure within the UK.