At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare cost estimates and manage commercial aspects of civil engineering projects.
- Company: Established infrastructure contractor with a strong reputation in the South West.
- Benefits: Long-term career progression, diverse projects, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for knowledge sharing and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a growing company and make an impact on exciting infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying or related field with estimating experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
A long-established and growing infrastructure contractor operating across the South West is seeking an experienced Estimator to join its commercial team based in Bridgwater, Somerset. The business delivers a wide range of civil engineering, highways, surfacing, and infrastructure projects for public and private sector clients, with a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and collaborative working.
This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially astute professional with strong estimating experience in highways and civil engineering to play a key role in both pre-contract and live project delivery.
The Role
Reporting to the Commercial Manager, you will be responsible for managing and administering commercial and contractual aspects of projects while also supporting the tendering and estimating function. The role is primarily office-based in Bridgwater, with regular site visits across the South West.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare accurate cost estimates, tender submissions, activity schedules, and forecasts for civil engineering and highways projects.
- Manage commercial and contractual processes including valuations, variations, CVRs, payments, and final accounts.
- Administer contracts under NEC, JCT, ICE and other standard forms.
- Lead procurement activities, securing competitive quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
- Conduct cost reviews and value engineering exercises to maximise project performance and profitability.
- Negotiate contracts and commercial agreements with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.
- Produce clear financial reporting and forecasting for senior management.
- Work closely with operational teams to ensure successful project delivery.
- Maintain awareness of market trends, pricing, and industry regulations.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Support a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.
- Encourage strong communication and knowledge sharing across departments and disciplines.
- Build effective relationships with colleagues, clients, subcontractors, and stakeholders.
- Promote best practice and continuous improvement across civil engineering and surfacing operations.
About You
- Degree qualified (or equivalent) in Quantity Surveying or a related discipline.
- Proven experience in estimating and/or quantity surveying within civil engineering and highways.
- Ideally 5+ years’ experience within a civil engineering contractor environment.
- Strong understanding of NEC, JCT, ICE and other standard forms of contract.
- Demonstrable experience in tender preparation and cost planning.
- Strong commercial awareness with excellent analytical and negotiation skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and estimating software packages.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Able to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
What’s on Offer
- Opportunity to join a well-established and expanding regional contractor.
- Diverse and interesting infrastructure and highways projects.
- Supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Long-term career progression opportunities within a growing business.
Estimator in Bridgwater employer: Sphere Solutions
Join a well-established and expanding infrastructure contractor in Bridgwater, Somerset, where you will be part of a supportive and collaborative team dedicated to delivering high-quality civil engineering and highways projects. With a strong focus on employee growth, this role offers diverse opportunities for career progression within a thriving business, all while enjoying a positive work culture that values communication and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator in Bridgwater
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. The more people you know in civil engineering and highways, the better your chances of landing that estimator role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your estimating skills and understanding of NEC, JCT, and ICE contracts. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you’ve managed commercial processes – it’ll show you’re the right fit for the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and tailor your approach to each one – it’ll make a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a fantastic addition to their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Estimator in Bridgwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Estimator role. Highlight your estimating experience in civil engineering and highways, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications or software skills that match the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Commercial Awareness:In your application, demonstrate your understanding of commercial processes and contracts like NEC and JCT. This will show us that you’re not just an estimator, but someone who can manage the commercial aspects effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sphere Solutions
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your strong analytical skills. Brush up on your cost estimation techniques and be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've prepared accurate cost estimates and tender submissions in the past.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Contracts
Make sure you understand the different types of contracts like NEC, JCT, and ICE. Be prepared to talk about your experience administering these contracts and how you've navigated commercial processes such as valuations and variations.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role requires a collaborative approach, so think of examples where you've worked closely with operational teams or built effective relationships with clients and subcontractors. Highlight how you promote a positive team culture.
✨Stay Updated on Market Trends
Demonstrate your awareness of current market trends and pricing in civil engineering and highways. Bring insights into how these trends could impact project performance and profitability, showing that you're proactive and informed.
