Senior Estimator

  • Sphere Solutions
  • Abergavenny, Gwent
  • Oct 21, 2025
Full time Construction

Job Description

Senior Estimator

Abergavenny

Permanent role + benefits package

Role Purpose

As Senior Estimator, you will lead the pre-construction estimating function for medium to large civil engineering tenders. You will play a key role in securing new work through accurate, competitive and compliant cost planning and tendering, while mentoring the estimating team and enhancing estimating processes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage full-lifecycle estimating for civil engineering tenders (earthworks, highways, utilities, structures)
  • Analyse tender documentation (drawings, specs, contracts) to create detailed cost plans and pricing models
  • Liaise with preconstruction, technical, commercial and delivery teams to develop method, programme, risk and opportunities
  • Engage with supply chain and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations, build cost databases and benchmark rates
  • Identify and manage risk, value engineering, margin assumptions and commercial controls within estimates
  • Present estimating outputs to senior stakeholders (bid manager, commercial director) and support tender adjudication
  • Hand-over successful tenders to delivery teams including assumptions, budget, risks and historical data
  • Mentor and coach junior estimators and contribute to continuous improvement of estimating systems
  • Maintain estimating documentation, registers of assumptions, tender review feedback and lessons learned

Candidate Profile

Essential:

  • Significant experience (typically 5-10 years) as an estimator in civil engineering/infrastructure/construction
  • Proven track record of pricing competitively and winning tenders for medium to large projects
  • Strong commercial and contractual awareness (NEC3/NEC4 or relevant frameworks)
  • High level of accuracy in cost planning, take-offs and risk assessment
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Proficient in estimating software (e.g., Causeway, Candy) and Microsoft Office (Excel)
  • Full UK Driving Licence and willingness to travel for site visits and client meetings

Desirable:

  • Experience working in Wales or regional market knowledge
  • Mentoring or managerial experience of junior estimating staff
  • Familiarity with Tarmac/Griffiths systems and frameworks