Estimator - Civils and Utilities in Durham

Location: Durham (Office Based)

Salary: Competitive + Benefits + Car

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

About the Company

Our client is a leading construction and built environment group which operates across the North East and Yorkshire. Their main trading company delivers civil engineering, new build affordable housing, commercial build, refurbishment, and retrofit services to public and private sector clients. They are a financially sound, growing contractor founded on strong regional roots dating back to the 1970s. Through a commitment to quality, collaboration and social value, they have grown into one of the North of England's most respected privately-owned construction businesses.

What our client is looking for

An Estimator to support the delivery of Northumbrian Water’s AMP8 capital investment programme within the Living Water Enterprise. The role focuses on preparing robust, transparent and value-driven cost estimates across a portfolio of water and wastewater infrastructure schemes. Working within an integrated enterprise environment, the Estimator will contribute to early contractor involvement, target cost development and continuous cost optimisation to achieve best outcomes for the client and customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate, auditable cost estimates for water and wastewater schemes across all stages of AMP8 delivery
• Develop estimates using first principles, historical data, framework rates and supply chain quotations
• Support target cost development in accordance with NEC contracts and LWE commercial governance
• Prepare and issue subcontract and supplier pricing packages within programme timescales
• Identify and manage cost risk, opportunity and value engineering options
• Work collaboratively with design, construction, commercial and planning teams
• Present cost plans and estimates to senior management and client representatives for review and settlement
• Provide regular progress updates to the estimating team
• Ensure workload is planned to meet programme and client deadlines
• Maintain estimating records, assumptions and benchmark data
• Demonstrate flexibility in working hours to support programme requirements
• The Group is committed to achieving a high standard of Health and Safety in all its activities and the post holder will be expected to contribute to maintaining standards to ensure compliance with all appropriate legislation
• To take a full role in the implementation of personal development through appraisals and to participate in any identified training or development opportunities
• To recognise the importance of fairness and equality in the workplace, to treat everyone with dignity and respect

What We’re Looking For

• A proactive, detail-driven individual with strong analytical skills.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and technical information.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Good commercial awareness and willingness to learn pricing methodologies.
• Organised, methodical, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• A team-focused mindset with a desire to contribute to a collaborative working culture.

It is not possible for this document to totally encompass or define all tasks that may be required of the post holder. The outlined duties may therefore vary from time to time without materially changing either the character or level of responsibility.

What To Expect From Our Client

Our clients’ values shape the way they work every day — and you can expect to see them in action from the moment you join them.

• Care: They prioritise your wellbeing and development, offering a supportive environment where you’re encouraged to grow, learn, and bring your best self to work.
• Trust: You’ll have the autonomy to take ownership of your work, with managers who believe in your abilities and are there to support you when needed.
• Integrity: They do the right thing, even when it’s not the easiest option. You can rely on open, honest communication and fair decision-making.
• Respect: They value diverse perspectives and create a workplace where everyone is listened to, valued, and treated with dignity.
• Working Together: Collaboration is at the heart of how they operate. You’ll join a team that celebrates shared success and supports one another to achieve great results.

Together, these values create a workplace where people feel welcome, trusted, appreciated, and proud to be part of the team.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years occupational experience in estimating within civil engineering, utilities or infrastructure.
• Experience in water or wastewater sectors and framework delivery is desirable.
• Knowledge of NEC contracts and regulated AMP environments advantageous.
• Experience of Causeway or similar estimating software an advantage but not essential.

Attributes & Skills

• Strong numerical and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multi-disciplinary, integrated teams.
• Effective time management, planning and organisational skills.
• Commercial awareness with a focus on value and whole-life cost thinking.