Cost Estimation & Civil Works Planning Manager (Scheduling)

Hill International; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 293,000 - 404,000; Full time

Job summary

A global construction management firm is seeking a Cost Estimation & Civil Works Planning Manager in Abu Dhabi. The role focuses on assessing contractor pricing and optimizing delivery strategies for large-scale transportation infrastructure projects. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, 12-15 years of relevant experience, and expertise in planning software. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to minimizing project costs and ensuring timely delivery.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 -15 years of experience in cost estimation, planning, and scheduling for large-scale EPC or PPP infrastructure projects.
• Experience in construction consultancy is mandatory.
• Proven experience in transport infrastructure sectors such as highways, bridges, rail, airports, or ports.

Responsibilities

• Assess EPC Contractor price proposals for large-scale transportation infrastructure projects.
• Review and validate Bills of Quantities (BoQs) for accuracy and completeness.
• Identify potential schedule and cost risks, propose mitigation strategies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder coordination

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in civil engineering

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

Job description

Hill International provides program, project, and construction management services for clients in a range of sectors undertaking major construction projects across the world. Our services include cost engineering and estimating, quality assurance, inspection, scheduling, risk management, and claims avoidance. For more information on Hill, please visit our website at www.hillintl.com.

The Cost Estimation & Civil Works Planning Manager (Scheduling) will be responsible for assessing EPC Contractor pricing, validating cost estimation submissions, and optimizing project delivery strategies to minimize both Capital Expenditure (CapEx) and Operational Expenditure (OpEx). The role requires strong analytical and planning expertise to ensure projects are executed efficiently, cost-effectively, and within the defined schedule and lifecycle cost objectives.

General Description of Role and Responsibilities:

• Assess EPC Contractor price proposals and cost estimation details for large-scale transportation infrastructure projects, targeting reductions in CapEx and OpEx.
• Contribute to minimizing the projects Lifecycle Cost (LCC) through competitive EPC and O&M pricing analysis.
• Analyze project unit rates (e.g., concrete, reinforcement steel, earthworks, utilities diversion, etc.) with a view to reducing overall EPC prices through deep market knowledge and benchmarking.
• Review and validate Bills of Quantities (BoQs) ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment with design and tender requirements.
• Evaluate and recommend improvements to the EPC Contractors Program of Works, setting viable milestones to ensure timely project delivery.
• Review planning and scheduling activities to ensure alignment with contractual obligations, resource availability, and project objectives.
• Identify potential schedule and cost risks, propose mitigation strategies, and support proactive decision-making.
• Coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams including design, commercial, and procurement functions to support integrated project delivery.

Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or related discipline
• Experience in construction consultancy is mandatory
• Minimum 12 -15 years of experience in cost estimation, planning, and scheduling for large-scale EPC or PPP infrastructure projects.
• Proven experience in transport infrastructure sectors such as highways, bridges, rail, airports, or ports.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in reviewing BoQs, cost models, and work programs.
• Expertise in planning software (Primavera P6, MS Project) and cost estimation tools.
• Deep understanding of construction market pricing trends and benchmarking practices.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder coordination, and reporting skills.
• Experience in PPP project procurement and lifecycle cost analysis.
• Knowledge of FIDIC and EPC contract frameworks.
• Certification in Planning/Scheduling (e.g., PMI-SP) or Cost Estimation (e.g., CCP) is an advantage