Estimating Manager – Civils & Surfacing Construction

DSD Construction; Carlisle; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

DSD Construction is seeking an Estimating Manager based in Cumbria to lead the estimating department across civil engineering and surfacing projects. You will oversee tendering, take-offs, cost estimates, and pricing strategies while collaborating with contracts managers to drive profitable project delivery.

The role requires strong leadership, extensive experience in civil works, and a solid track record in pricing and risk assessment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior estimating role within civil engineering and surfacing sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of construction industry, civil works, surfacing and highways.
• Strong understanding of pricing, cost analysis and risk assessment for complex projects.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience with estimating software and MS Office applications.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Strong negotiation and decision-making abilities.
• Degree or relevant qualifications in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or Construction Management desirable.
• Full UK driving license.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimating department, overseeing tender preparation and submission.
• Monitor procurement portals for tender opportunities.
• Review project specs, drawings and client requirements to develop cost estimates.
• Take-off quantities and production of bills of quantities.
• Liaise with project team to assess scope, risks and constraints.
• Build relationships with clients, suppliers and subcontractors.
• Conduct site visits as necessary to assess conditions.
• Analyse historical data, market trends and industry standards to inform estimates and pricing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with policies, legal requirements and safety standards.
• Provide leadership and mentoring to the estimating team.
• Develop bid documentation, reports, breakdowns and pricing schedules.
• Collaborate with contracts managers and directors to support project delivery.

Skills

Senior estimation

Civil engineering

Pricing & risk

Leadership

Stakeholder communication

Estimating software

MS Office

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying/Civil Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

Estimating software

MS Office

Job description

DSD Construction is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Estimating Manager who is based in Cumbria.

Job Role

DSD Construction Ltd is a leading contractor specialising in civil engineering and surfacing works. With a solid reputation for delivering high-quality projects across the UK, we are proud to serve a range of clients, from local authorities to private sector businesses. We are committed to innovation, safety, and sustainability, and we are looking for a talented and experienced Estimating Manager to join our growing team.

As the Estimating Manager, you will play a key role in overseeing and managing all aspects of the estimating process for civil engineering and surfacing projects. You will be responsible for providing accurate cost estimates, managing the bid process, and ensuring that all projects are priced competitively, profitably, and within budgetary constraints. Your expertise in civil and surfacing construction will ensure we continue to deliver exceptional results while maintaining our commitment to quality and safety.

• Lead and manage the estimating department, overseeing the preparation and submission of accurate and timely tenders for civil engineering and surfacing projects.
• Monitoring procurement portals for tender opportunities.
• Review project specifications, drawings, and client requirements to develop comprehensive cost estimates.
• Take-off quantities and production of bills of quantities.
• Collaborate with the project team to assess project scope, risks, and constraints, ensuring alignment with budget and schedule.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Conduct site visits as necessary to assess project conditions and requirements.
• Analyse historical data, market trends, and industry standards to inform estimates and pricing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, legal requirements, and safety standards in all estimating processes.
• Provide leadership and mentoring to the estimating team, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Manage the development of bid documentation, including reports, breakdowns, and pricing schedules.
• Work closely with contracts managers and directors to support the successful delivery of projects.

Qualifications, training & technical knowledge

• Proven experience in a senior estimating role within the civil engineering and surfacing sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of the construction industry, specifically in civil works, surfacing, and highways.
• Strong understanding of pricing, cost analysis, and risk assessment for complex construction projects.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience with estimating software and MS Office applications.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and organisational skills.
• Strong negotiation and decision-making abilities.
• A degree or relevant qualifications in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or Construction Management is desirable.
• Full UK driving license.

DSD Construction is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Site Agent who is based in Cumbria.

We are currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Site Engineer who is based in Cumbria and has the ability to work in a dynamic environment based on the Sellafield Site.