At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the estimating function for commercial solar PV and battery storage projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic renewables business focused on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, and benefits with long-term career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the renewable energy sector while shaping pricing strategies.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in estimating commercial solar projects and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking company that values employee engagement.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Commercial Solar PV Estimator to lead the estimating function across our commercial and industrial (C&I) Solar PV and battery storage client base. Working with the Directors, this role has full responsibility for pricing strategy, margin protection and risk assessment from initial enquiry through contract to award. You will act as the technical and commercial authority on project pricing, supporting senior management, sales and delivery teams to ensure projects are secured at the right margin and delivered profitably.
Key Responsibilities
- Commercial Leadership & Strategy
- Own and develop the commercial estimating strategy for all C&I Solar PV and BESS projects
- Set pricing frameworks, margin expectations, and risk allowances
- Review and approve all major project estimates prior to submission
- Provide commercial challenge to sales-led pricing where required
- Support board-level decision making on bid/no-bid assessments
- Estimating & Tender Management
- Lead the production of complex, high-value estimates, and tenders
- Oversee detailed cost build-ups including equipment, labour, access, prelims, DNO and compliance costs
- Assist the board in managing supplier and subcontractor pricing agreements
- Identify and mitigate technical and commercial risks
- Drive value engineering and alternative design solutions
- Ensure all submissions are technically compliant and commercially robust
- Technical Authority & Compliance
- Act as internal subject matter expert for MCS, G99/G100, DNO, BS7671 and CDM requirements
- Provide guidance on complex grid constraints, export limitation, battery integration, and metering strategies
- Review system design assumptions to ensure estimates are buildable and compliant
- Support resolution of technical queries during tender and post-award phases
- Stakeholder & Team Management
- Line manage and mentor junior and mid-level estimators
- Develop estimating tools, templates, and standardised cost models
- Work closely with Managing Director, Commercial Director, Project Managers and Procurement
- Support client meetings, technical presentations, and commercial negotiations
- Assist with post-contract reviews, variations and lessons learned
- Governance & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain benchmarking data for costs, productivity, and margins
- Implement continuous improvement across estimating accuracy and processes
- Support contract negotiations and commercial handover to delivery teams
- Review project performance against estimates to improve future pricing
Required Experience & Skills
Essential
- Extensive experience estimating commercial and industrial Solar PV projects
- Proven track record pricing multi-site or high-value C&I solar and battery projects
- Deep understanding of UK compliance: MCS, DNO, G99/G100, BS7671, CDM
- Strong commercial acumen with experience protecting margins in competitive markets
- Ability to lead, review and challenge estimates produced by others
- Advanced Excel skills and strong financial modelling capability
Desirable
- Experience in EPC contracting environments
- Battery energy storage (BESS) and energy management systems experience
- Knowledge of PPAs, export strategies and commercial energy tariffs
- Familiarity with PV design and modelling software
Personal Attributes
- Confident decision-maker with authority and credibility
- Commercially driven and risk aware
- Strong leadership and mentoring capability
- Comfortable engaging at senior management and client level
- Pragmatic, delivery-focused and solutions orientated
What We Offer
- Senior leadership role within a growing renewables business
- Influence over pricing strategy and commercial direction
- Competitive salary, bonus and benefits package consummate to experience
- Long-term career progression and leadership opportunity
- Working for a forward thinking, dynamic, employee friendly company
Head of Commercial Estimating in Wellingborough employer: Tom Orange Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Tom Orange Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial Estimating in Wellingborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want you to be able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in commercial estimating for Solar PV. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to confidently explain your skills and experiences. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery and make sure you shine when it counts.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial Estimating in Wellingborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Commercial Estimating role. Highlight your experience with Solar PV projects and any relevant compliance knowledge. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
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. Share specific examples of your past successes in estimating and pricing strategies that demonstrate your commercial acumen.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves managing and mentoring others, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. We love seeing how you've developed teams or improved processes in your previous roles!
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’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tom Orange Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Commercial Estimating, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in pricing strategy and margin protection. Brush up on your financial modelling skills and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed costs in previous projects. Bring examples of complex estimates you've worked on to showcase your experience.
✨Understand Compliance Inside Out
Familiarity with UK compliance standards like MCS, G99/G100, and BS7671 is crucial. Make sure you can explain how these regulations impact project pricing and risk assessment. Prepare to discuss any challenges you've faced regarding compliance and how you overcame them.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and mentoring capabilities. Be prepared to share your experiences in managing teams and guiding junior estimators. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a difference in project outcomes or team performance.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
You'll be working closely with senior management and clients, so it's essential to demonstrate your communication skills. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated commercial negotiations or client meetings. Show that you're comfortable engaging at all levels and can represent the company confidently.