Cost Estimator

NES Fircroft; West Midlands Combined Authority; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job description

Role - Cost Estimator

Location - West Midlands (Hybrid working)

Our Nuclear engineering client is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Estimator. The Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for engineered-to-order (ETO) projects in the nuclear sector.

The role requires an in-depth understanding of engineering design, manufacturing processes, materials, and industry regulations to develop competitive and precise cost projections. The Estimator will collaborate with engineering, procurement, manufacturing, quality, project management and site teams to ensure project success from bid to execution.

Cost Estimation & Analysis:

1. Develop detailed cost estimates for nuclear engineering projects, considering materials, labour, subcontracting, overheads, and contingencies.
2. Review and interpret complex manufacturing detail drawings, including machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly details for bespoke machines, plant, and equipment.
3. Perform material take-offs from engineering drawings and technical documentation.
4. Conduct probabilistic and deterministic estimating to align estimates with resource-loaded schedules.
5. Manage and maintain engineering design estimating norms to ensure engineering estimates are completed to a consistent standard.
6. Understand and apply 3-point estimating principles, incorporating risk and opportunity costs.
7. Work closely with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing and lead time estimates.
8. Prepare cost breakdowns and justifications for management review and customer proposals.
9. Develop project estimates up to £50M for new bids/tenders.

Experience required:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
2. Minimum 5 years of experience in estimating, costing, or project management in an ETO or highly regulated manufacturing/construction environment (preferably nuclear, aerospace, or defence).
3. Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, fabrication, and assembly.
4. Ability to review complex technical drawings and specifications to extract material, labour, and cost information.
5. Experience working with ERP/MRP systems for cost estimation and material tracking.
6. Proficiency in cost modelling, Microsoft Excel, and estimating software.