Senior Estimator in Cheshire, Warrington

United Infrastructure is a dynamic and rapidly expanding business, focused on delivering critical infrastructure projects across the utility and social infrastructure sectors. Our team of highly skilled and hardworking specialists deliver innovative solutions to the complex challenges our clients face.

Our company is split into two business areas:

• Utility Infrastructure – Our team of Utility Infrastructure specialists design, build and maintain critical water, energy (gas), power and telecoms infrastructure for the UK’s largest network owners and operators.
• Social Infrastructure - Our team of Social Infrastructure specialists revitalise homes and communities by carrying out a wide range of work, from retrofit to refurbishment, and maintenance.

Working in partnership with our clients, which are the UK’s largest network owners and operators, we work on highly complex projects to deliver resilient infrastructure, meeting the needs of local communities as well as national interests. One of our key strengths lies in our ability to deliver projects nationally, but also ensuring that within each programme of work, we engage with local communities. We do this through employing people who are representative of the local communities we work in, training and developing them to take pride in the work they do, and to be responsible for delivering leading levels of performance across our projects.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join our Utilities Infrastructure business that focuses on the Water & Energy sector. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for preparing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for a variety of projects. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously whilst maintaining the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and tender documents for projects of varying complexity and scale.
• Analyse project specifications, drawings, and technical documentation to determine material quantities and labour requirements.
• Conduct thorough research into current material costs, labour rates, and market trends to ensure competitive and accurate estimates.
• Utilise estimating software and tools to generate professional quotations and cost breakdowns.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and suppliers to clarify project scope and gather necessary information.
• Review and validate estimates for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with company standards.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation and records of all estimates and supporting calculations.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior estimating staff, fostering their professional development.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimisation and process improvements within the estimating function.
• Present estimates and cost analyses to internal stakeholders and clients with clear, professional communication.
• Stay abreast of industry developments, regulatory changes, and emerging estimating methodologies.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years' professional experience in estimating within utilities, engineering, gas or water sector.
• Advanced proficiency with estimating software packages such as Candy, Bluebeam, or On-Screen Takeoff.
• Strong expertise in cost analysis, budgeting, and financial forecasting.
• Excellent mathematical skills with demonstrated ability to work with precision and accuracy.
• Comprehensive knowledge of material costs, labour rates, and industry pricing structures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for complex calculations and modelling.
• Ability to interpret and analyse technical drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present information clearly.
• Strong organisational skills with the capacity to manage multiple estimates and deadlines concurrently.
• Proven track record of producing accurate, competitive estimates that win business.

Desirable:

• Experience with Building Information Modelling (BIM) and associated software.
• Familiarity with project management software and integrated systems.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior estimating staff.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Experience in specific sectors such as commercial construction, civil engineering, or mechanical services.