Estimator

Kenton Black; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Long-term contract

Job summary

Kenton Black in the Midlands and wider UK is seeking an experienced Freelance Estimator to join their pre-construction function for civil engineering and infrastructure projects.

This long-term contract offers hybrid working arrangements and an outside IR35 status, with a key focus on preparing competitive tenders, analysing project costs and supporting the business in securing new work.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Estimator in civil engineering, infrastructure, highways, groundworks or utilities.
• Strong understanding of tendering processes and estimating methodologies.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications and contract documentation.

Responsibilities

• Produce accurate and competitive cost estimates for civil projects.
• Review tender docs, specs, drawings and BOQs.
• Obtain, assess and negotiate quotes from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Prepare detailed pricing schedules and tender submissions.
• Identify risks, opportunities and value engineering options.
• Collaborate with operational, engineering and commercial teams during bids.
• Attend tender meetings and assist in client negotiations as needed.
• Maintain estimating records and cost databases.
• Help develop tender strategies to maximise success.
• Ensure submissions meet deadlines and company standards.

Skills

Tendering processes

Cost estimation

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Tools

Microsoft Office

Estimating software

Job description

About the Company

Our client is a well-established civil engineering and infrastructure contractor with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality projects across the Midlands and wider UK. Operating across a diverse range of sectors, they have built long-standing relationships with both public and private sector clients through their commitment to quality, safety, and collaborative project delivery. Due to a growing workload and a strong pipeline of secured work, they are looking to appoint an experienced Freelance Estimator to support their pre-construction function.

The Role

Due to continued success and an increasing number of tender opportunities, our client is seeking an experienced Freelance Estimator to join their established team. This is a long-term contract opportunity offering hybrid working arrangements and an outside IR35 status.

The successful candidate will play a key role in preparing competitive tenders, analysing project costs, and supporting the business in securing new work across a range of civil engineering and infrastructure projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce accurate and competitive cost estimates for civil engineering and infrastructure projects.
• Review tender documentation, specifications, drawings, and bills of quantities.
• Obtain, assess, and negotiate quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Prepare detailed pricing schedules and tender submissions.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering proposals.
• Work closely with operational, engineering, and commercial teams throughout the bid process.
• Attend tender meetings and provide support during client negotiations where required.
• Maintain accurate estimating records and cost databases.
• Assist in developing tender strategies to maximise project success.
• Ensure submissions are completed within required deadlines and company standards.

Experience & Requirements

• Proven experience working as an Estimator within the civil engineering, infrastructure, highways, groundworks, or utilities sectors.
• Strong understanding of tendering processes and estimating methodologies.
• Experience interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and contract documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple tenders and prioritise workloads effectively.
• Strong commercial awareness and analytical skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and industry-standard estimating software.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Full UK driving licence preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong cost planning and estimating capabilities.
• Experience preparing detailed tender submissions.
• Ability to analyse supplier and subcontractor quotations.
• Understanding of commercial and contractual principles.
• Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy.

People Skills

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Organised and capable of managing competing deadlines.
• Proactive and self-motivated approach.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

What's on Offer

• Long-term freelance contract.
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Opportunity to work with a reputable contractor on a diverse portfolio of projects.