The Opportunity A leading UK civil engineering and infrastructure contractor is seeking an experienced Senior / Lead Estimator to join its growing commercial team based in Warrington. This is a key appointment within the business, offering the opportunity to lead the estimating function across a diverse portfolio of civil engineering, infrastructure, highways, utilities, earthworks, and major construction projects. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in securing future workstreams and shaping the commercial success of the business. The role would suit an experienced Estimator ready to step into a leadership position, or an established Lead Estimator looking to join a business with a strong project pipeline and long-term growth plans. Key Responsibilities * Lead the preparation and submission of competitive tender estimates for civil engineering and infrastructure projects. * Produce detailed cost plans and tender submissions using **first principles pricing methodologies**. * Review tender documentation, specifications, drawings, and contract requirements to identify risks, opportunities, and key commercial considerations. * Develop comprehensive pricing strategies based on labour, plant, materials, subcontractor packages, and project-specific delivery requirements. * Carry out site visits and assessments to identify project complexities, logistics requirements, and construction constraints. * Engage proactively with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations and negotiate commercial terms. * Prepare and present tender adjudications to senior management. * Support bid submissions and client presentations where required. * Work closely with operational, commercial, and project delivery teams to ensure robust handovers following contract award. * Monitor market conditions, material costs, inflationary trends, and supply chain developments. * Mentor and support junior estimators where appropriate. * Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating function. Essential Requirements * Proven experience operating as a Senior Estimator or Lead Estimator within civil engineering, infrastructure, utilities, highways, energy, or construction sectors. * Strong experience producing estimates using **first principles pricing**. * Demonstrable ability to build estimates from the ground up, including labour, plant, materials, productivity outputs, and subcontract packages. * Strong understanding of construction methodologies and associated cost drivers. * Experience managing multiple tenders simultaneously within a fast-paced environment. * Commercially astute with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. * Strong stakeholder management and communication abilities. * Proficient in Microsoft Excel and estimating software packages. ## Desirable Experience * HNC/HND or Degree qualified in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline. * Experience working under NEC and JCT forms of contract. * Knowledge of CESMM and other recognised methods of measurement. * Experience leading tender reviews and adjudication processes. * Previous management or mentoring experience within an estimating team. ## What's on Offer * Salary circa **£100,000** (dependent on experience). * Attractive benefits package. * Long-term career progression opportunities. * Opportunity to work on high-profile infrastructure and civil engineering projects. * Stable and growing business with a strong reputation within the sector. * Collaborative and supportive working environment. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded estimator who enjoys developing robust first-principles estimates and wants to play a key role in the continued growth of a highly successful civil engineering contractor. Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age
