Senior Estimator

Purpose of the Role

The Senior Estimator will take ownership of the pre-construction process from initial tender through to contract award, ensuring a smooth handover to delivery teams. The role also includes providing timely commercial support and maintaining a high level of accuracy and compliance throughout the estimating function.

Key Responsibilities

• Review tender documentation (ITT) to confirm scope, constraints, and key dates.
• Lead tender launch meetings to establish strategy, milestones, and responsibilities.
• Define deliverables for tender returns with clear ownership across the team (e.g. programme, quality, social value).
• Coordinate with design teams and stakeholders to refine technical solutions.
• Undertake site visits to assess access, logistics, and constraints.
• Prepare Bills of Quantities and cost plans using Conquest or similar estimating software.
• Manage supply-chain engagement: issue compliant enquiries, respond to queries, and drive competitive coverage.
• Collaborate with internal teams including:
  • Project/Contracts Managers on programme, methodology, and logistics.
  • Procurement on materials and product selection.
  • Health & Safety leads on project-specific requirements.
• Maintain and contribute to project risk registers.
• Lead mid-tender reviews, presenting status, risks, and opportunities to senior leadership.
• Produce fully compliant and competitively priced submissions, ensuring all return forms are completed accurately and submitted on time.
• Manage structured handover processes, presenting the estimate to delivery teams and issuing supporting documentation.
• Track and resolve all queries and actions promptly.

Skills & Experience

• Proven background in leading tenders within a main contractor environment.
• Strong knowledge of buildability, construction methodologies, and logistics.
• Proficiency with estimating software (Conquest or equivalent) and MS Office tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong organisational ability, with a focus on deadlines, compliance, and governance.