At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare cost estimates for exciting civil engineering projects and collaborate with diverse teams.
- Company: Join JN Bentley, a leading UK engineering firm with a strong focus on infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, tailored development, and flexible benefits to suit your lifestyle.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values your growth and offers career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on major projects and see your work come to life on site.
- Qualifications: Experience in estimating or a strong civil engineering background is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
JN Bentley is a leading UK engineering and construction company delivering critical infrastructure across the water, environmental and energy sectors through long‑term, collaborative frameworks. As part of the Mott MacDonald Group, we provide clients with fully integrated design and build services across England, Wales and Scotland. With an annual turnover exceeding £600m and a strong, growing order book, we offer long‑term career opportunities within a stable and forward‑looking business.
We are seeking an Estimator or Senior Estimator to join our high‑performing Bidding and Estimating team and play a pivotal role in shaping how major infrastructure projects are secured and delivered. Based from our Leeds city‑centre office, you will work at the front end of projects – collaborating closely with design, commercial and operational teams to develop smart, competitive and deliverable cost‑effective solutions. The role offers exposure to a diverse portfolio of civil engineering schemes across England, Wales and Scotland, ranging from early‑stage feasibility work and smaller value projects to high value complex, multi‑disciplinary schemes. This is a fantastic opportunity to influence project outcomes, add real value and see your work translate directly into successful delivery on site.
Who We’re Looking For
We are keen to hear from experienced Estimators and Senior Estimators. We would also consider applications from civil engineering professionals who are looking to transition into estimating – for example, Quantity Surveyors, Planners, Engineers and experienced site‑based professionals from the water, environmental and energy sectors. If you bring strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness and a clear understanding of how projects are built, we will support you with structured training, mentoring and development to succeed in an estimating role.
The Role Will Involve
- Preparing accurate, well‑structured and commercially sound first principle cost estimates for civil engineering and infrastructure projects;
- Working collaboratively with design, commercial and operational teams to develop robust and competitive tenders;
- Reviewing drawings, specifications and scopes to identify risk, opportunity and value engineering solutions;
- Engaging proactively with the supply chain to secure quotations and inform buildable, market‑tested pricing;
- Supporting bid submissions, reviews and tender clarification meetings;
- Applying consistent estimating standards, systems and governance across all bids.
What You’ll Bring
- Experience in estimating or a strong civil engineering background within a construction or infrastructure environment;
- Commercial awareness and high attention to detail;
- A working understanding of NEC forms of contract and procurement processes;
- The ability to analyse complex information and communicate it clearly and confidently;
- A collaborative mindset and a desire to learn, develop and contribute to a high‑performing team.
What We Offer
In return, you’ll join a supportive and ambitious business that invests heavily in its people. Alongside a competitive reward package, we offer tailored development and progression aligned to your career goals, backed by the scale and opportunity of the Mott MacDonald Group. Our flexible benefits package allows you to personalise your financial, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits to suit what matters most to you.
Estimator employer: JN Bentley
At JN Bentley, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Leeds. Our commitment to employee development is evident through structured training and mentoring, ensuring that you can grow your career within our high-performing team. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, we provide a unique opportunity to influence major infrastructure projects while enjoying a competitive benefits package tailored to your needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. 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 JN Bentley and their projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for civil engineering and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your estimating skills! Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss how you approach cost estimates. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate who knows their stuff.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at JN Bentley.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Estimator role. Highlight relevant experience in estimating or civil engineering, and don’t forget to showcase your commercial awareness and attention to detail!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with what we’re looking for. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills:When filling out your application, be sure to highlight your technical knowledge and understanding of NEC forms of contract. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at JN Bentley
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to prepare accurate cost estimates. Brush up on your numerical skills and be ready to discuss how you approach estimating costs for civil engineering projects. Bring examples of past projects where your estimates made a significant impact.
✨Understand the Project Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the entire project lifecycle, from feasibility studies to delivery. Be prepared to discuss how your role as an Estimator fits into this process and how you collaborate with design and operational teams to ensure successful outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Awareness
JN Bentley values commercial awareness, so be ready to talk about how you identify risks and opportunities in projects. Think of specific instances where your insights led to cost-effective solutions or improved tender submissions.
✨Engage with the Supply Chain
Highlight your experience in engaging with suppliers and securing quotations. Discuss how you ensure that pricing is market-tested and buildable. This shows that you understand the importance of collaboration in delivering competitive tenders.
