Estimator – HV Substation Civils & Cabling Works Location: Manchester Contract Type: Permanent Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience The Role An established specialist civil engineering and high-voltage power contractor is looking to appoint an experienced Estimator to join its Manchester-based team. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing tender opportunities from initial enquiry through to final submission, with a particular focus on HV/EHV substation civil engineering and high-voltage cable installation works. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Estimator with a background in civil engineering, utilities, power or energy infrastructure to join a growing business delivering technically challenging projects across the UK. Key Responsibilities * Manage tender enquiries and Invitations to Tender (ITTs) from initial receipt through to final submission. * Review tender documentation, drawings, specifications and commercial requirements. * Prepare accurate first-principles estimates for HV/EHV substation civil works and high-voltage cable installation projects. * Build detailed cost estimates covering labour, plant, materials, subcontractors and other project requirements. * Obtain and assess competitive quotations from suppliers and specialist subcontractors. * Identify potential commercial risks and opportunities within tender documentation. * Coordinate tender queries, programmes and supporting documentation with Contracts Managers and wider internal teams. * Work closely with commercial, operational and technical teams to develop competitive and deliverable tender submissions. * Ensure estimates are accurate, commercially competitive and submitted within required deadlines. Skills & Experience Required * Ideally 5+ years' experience within an Estimator position. * Previous estimating experience within civil engineering, utilities, power, energy infrastructure or a related sector. * Experience of HV/EHV substations, electrical infrastructure or cable installation projects would be highly advantageous. * Strong knowledge of first-principles estimating. * Good commercial awareness and understanding of construction costs. * Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications and construction methodologies. * Experience obtaining and evaluating supplier and subcontractor quotations. * Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tenders and deadlines simultaneously. * Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. * Confident communication skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a wider team. What's on Offer * Permanent position with a growing specialist contractor. * Opportunity to work within the expanding HV/EHV power infrastructure sector. * Involvement in technically challenging civil engineering and cabling projects. * Competitive salary and benefits package. * Opportunities for continued professional development and career progression
Estimator in Manchester employer: Vital Human Resources
Morson Vital is an exceptional employer that prioritises equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming environment for all employees. With competitive pay and a commitment to employee growth, we offer opportunities for skill development and career advancement in a supportive work culture. Located in CF11 8HP, our team enjoys a collaborative atmosphere where every contribution is valued, making it a rewarding place to build your career as a PTS Bricklayer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Estimator in Manchester
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Vital Human Resources, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Estimator at Vital Human Resources.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Vital Human Resources
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
