Senior Estimator
Location: Sale, Manchester / Project-based
Select an experienced Senior Estimator to secure and develop a strong, profitable workstream for the business. The role has full responsibility for estimating processes, providing expert commercial insight, and adding value through innovative solutions, digital engineering, and technical expertise. The successful candidate will interface confidently across the business and with external stakeholders to support successful work winning.
Key Responsibilities
Secure profitable opportunities by preparing high‑quality, timely, and competitive bids aligned with LOR Group requirements.
Lead the estimating function across bids, taking ownership of less complex tenders and supporting large or complex projects.
Drive the value proposition across opportunities, including Self Delivery, Digital Engineering (DE), and DfMA initiatives.
Utilise estimating software and Digital Engineering tools to promote efficiency and consistency.
Apply lessons learned and feedback from live and recently completed projects.
Promote innovation and competitiveness through engagement with Engineering Excellence.
Engage collaboratively with Design, Commercial, Engineering, DE, Procurement, Planning, HS&E, and EnEx.G throughout the work‑winning process.
Key Deliverables & Accountabilities
Preparation of major prime cost estimates.
Team leadership in prime cost evaluation.
Commercial analysis of subcontractor quotations.
Advice on risk, qualification, and margin finalisation.
Ensure all bids are subject to formal adjudication.
Successful post‑tender negotiations.
Ensure compliance with Executive Dashboards and EFA sheets for all bids.
Provide estimating input into pre‑bid submissions and PQQs.
Liaise with clients and external consultants.
Implement internal governance and core estimating processes.
Provide general estimating support and guidance.
Deliver structured training and development for assistant and trainee estimators.
Provide constructive feedback to support team development.
Technical Capabilities
Advanced
Procurement strategies and mechanisms.
Package management and supply chain enquiry management.
Expert
Pricing, cost planning, and net prime cost forecasting.
Bid administration and management of the tendering process.
Key Skills
Essential
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities.
Ability to work independently, use initiative, and plan ahead.
Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
Desired
Extensive experience using estimating software.
Qualifications
Essential
HNC or cognate degree in Construction or Civil Engineering (or equivalent experience).
Desired
HNC / Degree in Construction or Civil Engineering.
Progression towards professional membership (RICS, CIOB, ICE, IMechE).
Experience
Essential
Proven experience managing estimates from inception through submission, post‑tender, award, and handover to delivery teams.
Desired
Previous site‑based experience in an Engineering or Commercial role.
Experience leading estimating teams through the bid process.
Personal Attributes
Commercially aware with a logical, well‑organised approach.
Able to manage workload against strict deadlines.
Positive and resilient under pressure.
Flexible, reliable, and geographically mobile to support tender workload.
Committed to team motivation, engagement, and maintaining a positive working environment.
As part of the Disability Confident scheme, we would like to enable access to candidates with long term conditions and disabilities through the ‘Offer an interview scheme’. This supports applicants that meet the essential criteria by offering an interview for the advertised position. Please let us know if you would like to opt in to this scheme and let us know if you require any adjustments for the interview process.
We want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you need the application form in an alternative format or you would like to know more about our recruitment process, please email resourcingteam@laingorourke.com.
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Senior Estimator in Sale employer: Laing O'Rourke
Laing O'Rourke is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the dynamic environment of Stansted. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and the chance to lead impactful projects within the aviation sector, all while being part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence in procurement.