The Role
Are you an experienced estimator with a passion for delivering accurate, commercially robust cost estimates on complex projects? We are looking for a Senior Estimator to join our team, supporting major programmes across the defence, nuclear and infrastructure sectors.
In this role, you will take ownership of the estimating process across a range of project and bid lifecycles, working closely with engineering, procurement, commercial, planning and delivery teams. You will play a key role in producing high-quality estimates and tender submissions that support successful project delivery and business growth.
Join us at an exciting time of transformation. As part of Trinzic, the newly established business spun out from KBR's Defence Nuclear Technology Solutions division, you'll have the opportunity to work on some of the UK's most complex defence and nuclear programmes while helping shape the future of a growing organisation.
What You'll Be Doing
Estimating & Tender Delivery
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, cost plans and tender submissions across all stages of the project lifecycle.
- Develop estimates using appropriate methodologies, including first-principles estimating where required.
- Review tender documentation, specifications, drawings and scope information to identify key cost drivers, assumptions, risks and opportunities.
- Build labour, material, plant, subcontractor, overhead and indirect cost estimates supported by robust evidence.
- Produce and maintain basis of estimate documentation, assumptions, exclusions and clarifications.
- Coordinate inputs from engineering, procurement, commercial, planning and supply chain teams to ensure timely and accurate estimate submissions.
- Present estimates, assumptions, risks and opportunities at estimate reviews, bid reviews and tender adjudications.
Commercial & Cost Analysis
- Evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations, ensuring compliance with scope requirements and commercial assumptions.
- Identify and quantify risks and opportunities to support contingency development and cost certainty.
- Conduct cost, rate, productivity and benchmarking analysis using historical data and market intelligence.
- Support value engineering activities, alternative solutions and cost optimisation studies.
- Contribute to post-bid reviews, lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support cashflow forecasting, cost planning and lifecycle cost analysis where required.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with project managers, engineers, commercial teams, procurement specialists and planners to develop high-quality estimates.
- Liaise with suppliers, subcontractors, delivery partners and clients to validate pricing and scope assumptions.
- Clearly communicate estimate methodologies, risks and key cost drivers to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Support the seamless handover of estimates and assumptions to project delivery teams following contract award.
Leadership & Continuous Improvement
- Mentor and support junior estimators and developing team members.
- Promote best practice and ensure compliance with estimating procedures, governance and quality standards.
- Contribute to the development of estimating tools, databases, benchmarking information and digital solutions.
- Stay up to date with market trends, sector developments and industry best practice.
What We're Looking For
Essential Experience
- Proven experience delivering robust cost estimates and tender submissions across engineering, infrastructure, defence, nuclear or related sectors.
- Experience delivering estimates and tender submissions within defence, nuclear, infrastructure or other highly regulated sectors.
- Strong understanding of first-principles estimating and cost build-ups.
- Experience assessing supplier and subcontractor quotations.
- Ability to identify and manage cost drivers, risks, opportunities and scope gaps.
- Experience working within multidisciplinary project teams and managing competing priorities.
- Knowledge of NEC and/or other commercial and contracting frameworks.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience using estimating or project controls systems.
- Ability to obtain and maintain the relevant security clearance requirements.
Desirable Experience
- Experience supporting major defence, nuclear or government-funded programmes.
- Knowledge of cost risk analysis, benchmarking methodologies and estimating databases.
- Experience participating in bid governance, assurance and adjudication processes.
- Previous experience mentoring or coaching junior estimators.
- Membership of, or working towards membership of, a relevant professional institution such as RICS, ACostE, AACE, ICE or CICES.
Qualifications
- Degree, HND, HNC or equivalent experience in Quantity Surveying, Engineering, Construction, Cost Engineering, Commercial Management, Finance, Mathematics or a related discipline.
- Professional accreditation or relevant estimating qualifications are advantageous.
Location
Leatherhead, Surrey (Hybrid – 3 days in the office)
Security Requirements
Due to the nature of the projects we work on, restrictions relating to UK residency and nationality will apply. This includes a minimum of five years' continuous residency in the UK and the ability to meet the nationality requirements associated with the relevant security clearance level.
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Senior Estimator in Leatherhead employer: KBR, Inc
KBR, Inc. is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer extensive growth opportunities in a hybrid work environment, allowing you to balance professional aspirations with personal life. Join us to lead impactful engineering programmes in a supportive atmosphere that values your expertise and contributions.
