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- Tasks: Prepare accurate cost estimates for exciting capital and operational projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in the infrastructure and civil engineering sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and professional development.
- Other info: Regular travel to UK sites and potential overseas trips.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on major projects while building strong relationships.
- Qualifications: 5 years of cost estimating experience and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are looking to appoint a Cost Estimator to support our Commercial and Major Projects teams, by preparing accurate and timely cost estimates for capital and operational projects, ensuring financial viability, value for money, and compliance with procurement and governance frameworks.
Working closely with Procurement, Finance, Engineering, and our Project Delivery teams, you will be aligning cost data and funding strategies, to adapt estimates to phased delivery models, and be capable of working under funding constraints, through the use of NEC3 and NEC4 contracts, as well as public procurement regulations.
As a new role within the Commercial Team, you will need to build and maintain exceptionally strong positive working relationships with all our stakeholders, both internal and external. Travel to our UK sites will be a regular feature of this role, with some overnight stays. Therefore, a full (preferably clean) driving licence is essential for the successful candidate. There will also be occasional overseas travel when required.
Responsibilities:
- Estimation, preparation, and analysis of costing of requirements for capital and operational projects.
- Develop Class 5-3 cost estimates and support allocated Quantity Surveyor with Class 2 and 1 estimates (or equivalent), aligned with project phases and standards.
- Structure estimates using high-level cost codes and WBS (Work Breakdown Structures).
- Calculate escalation profiles and reconcile with previous estimates.
- Ensure estimates meet the accuracy thresholds defined in the OPA Project Governance Framework Manual.
- Document basis of estimate and support Opportunity Reports and Business Cases.
- Contribute to commercial and project delivery process reviews and improvement.
- Participate in phased contracting discussions and support pricing mechanisms for multi-phase projects.
- Develop and maintain cost databases and cost estimating tools.
- Escalate critical issues to senior management.
- Produce management information.
The candidate:
Candidates will need to have proven experience in cost estimating within infrastructure, civil engineering, or energy sectors, preferably with a minimum of 5 years’ cost estimation experience, with a relevant degree being desirable. You will need to be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of NEC3 and NEC4 contracts, as well as public procurement regulations, with excellent analytical, communication, and organisational skills. Experience of contributing to strategic planning and resource forecasting is desirable. Effective IT skills in Office 365, particularly Excel, with cost management software and estimating tools, are essential for the successful post holder. Familiarity with OPA’s operational context, especially fuel storage and marine civil engineering projects is desirable.
Cost Estimator employer: The Oil and Pipelines Agency
Contact Detail:
The Oil and Pipelines Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Estimator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Cost Estimator role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on NEC3 and NEC4 contracts. Make sure you can discuss how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We want to see you shine when it comes to demonstrating your expertise!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of past projects where you’ve successfully estimated costs and navigated funding constraints. This will help us see how you can contribute to our Commercial Team right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Cost Estimator role. Highlight your experience in cost estimating, especially within infrastructure or civil engineering. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When writing your cover letter, focus on your proven experience with NEC3 and NEC4 contracts. Share specific examples of projects where you've successfully prepared cost estimates and how you ensured financial viability.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points for key achievements and responsibilities to make it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance. We appreciate straightforward communication!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Oil and Pipelines Agency
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost Estimator, you'll need to be comfortable with figures. Brush up on your cost estimation techniques and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles. Familiarise yourself with NEC3 and NEC4 contracts, as well as public procurement regulations, so you can confidently answer any technical questions.
✨Build Relationships
This role requires strong collaboration with various teams. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully built relationships with stakeholders. Be prepared to share how you approach teamwork and communication, especially under pressure or when facing tight deadlines.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
You'll need excellent analytical skills for this position. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've used data analysis to inform your cost estimates. Bring along examples of how you've structured estimates using high-level cost codes and WBS, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Be Ready for Travel Talk
Since the job involves travel to UK sites and occasional overseas trips, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and experience with travel. If you have a clean driving licence, mention it! This shows you're ready to hit the ground running and meet the demands of the role.