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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial management and drive cost control on high-value engineering projects.
- Company: Dynamic engineering firm focused on innovative manufacturing solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, potential 4-day week, and exposure to complex projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping commercial strategy in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying and proven experience in cost estimation.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced Cost Estimator to take full ownership of the commercial and financial performance of our growing engineering and manufacturing portfolio. This is a key strategic hire, reporting directly to the General Manager. You’ll step into a role with real authority, influence, and autonomy from day one—shaping how we manage cost, risk, and contracts across the business.
If you’re commercially driven, confident working with NEC contracts, and thrive in complex, contractor-led environments such as defence or manufacturing, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
The Opportunity
You’ll act as the business’s trusted commercial authority—driving best practice, strengthening governance, and ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest standards. Working closely with project managers, engineers, clients, and suppliers, you’ll provide expert leadership in cost control, forecasting, contract management, and risk mitigation. This is not a development role. We’re looking for someone ready to lead, influence, and set the commercial standard.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead commercial and contractual management across multiple projects
- Produce robust estimates, budgets, forecasts, and cost reports
- Manage NEC contracts, early warnings, CEs, payment applications, and variations
- Identify commercial risks and implement mitigation strategies
- Support monthly reporting, invoicing, and client progress meetings
- Manage and engage the supply chain, ensuring strong contractual compliance
- Lead subcontract negotiations, procurement, and change control
- Support bids, tenders, and pre-contract reviews
- Assess time and cost impacts on live projects
- Drive continuous improvement and embed best commercial practice
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Degree in Quantity Surveying
- Strong commercial, financial, and analytical capability
- Proven experience in cost estimation and project cost control
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Confident working independently in fast-paced environments
Desirable
- NEC3 contract experience
- Background in defence, manufacturing, or contractor-led projects
- Experience using estimating and project management software
We welcome applications from senior QSs, commercial managers, and experienced contractor-side professionals ready to hit the ground running.
Working Pattern & Benefits
- 37.5 hours per week
- Mon–Thurs: 8am–5pm
- Fri: 8am–12pm (WFH available)
- Flexible working, including potential 4-day week
- Exposure to high-value, technically complex projects
- Opportunity to influence and shape commercial strategy
- Supportive, forward-thinking engineering environment
Cost Estimator in Barrow in Furness employer: The Thrive Team Limited
Contact Detail:
The Thrive Team Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Estimator in Barrow in Furness
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Cost Estimator role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want you to show off your knowledge about their work in engineering and manufacturing. Tailor your answers to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs—especially around NEC contracts!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Cost Estimator, you’ll need to be confident in discussions about budgets and contracts. We suggest role-playing with a friend or mentor to sharpen those skills before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team in shaping commercial strategies.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Estimator in Barrow in Furness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Cost Estimator role. Highlight your experience with NEC contracts and any relevant projects you've worked on, as this will show us you're a great fit for the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about cost estimation and how your background in engineering and manufacturing makes you the perfect candidate. Don’t forget to mention your leadership skills and ability to manage complex projects.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial acumen and project management skills. Numbers speak volumes, so if you’ve saved costs or improved processes, let us know!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Thrive Team Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost Estimator, you'll need to demonstrate your strong analytical skills. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and forecasts in previous roles. Bring examples of your cost reports and estimates to showcase your expertise.
✨Master NEC Contracts
Since the role involves working with NEC contracts, make sure you understand their nuances. Familiarise yourself with common clauses and how they impact project delivery. Be prepared to discuss your experience with these contracts and how you've navigated challenges in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position requires you to lead and influence others. Think about times when you've taken charge of a project or guided a team through complex negotiations. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership style and how it has led to successful outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Practice articulating how you would handle various commercial risks or contract disputes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.