Estimator

Nicholas Associates; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established contractor in Cambridge is seeking an experienced Estimator to prepare competitive tenders for residential groundworks and civil engineering projects. This role offers career progression into a Senior Estimator position within a supportive team, and involves preparing cost estimates and collaborating with suppliers and project managers. A competitive salary package is offered based on experience, along with excellent career development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Career development opportunities

Supportive working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in estimating within civil engineering or groundworks sector.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and pricing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for civil engineering projects.
• Liaise with suppliers to obtain quotations.
• Collaborate with project managers to ensure estimates reflect practical delivery methods.

Skills

Estimating experience

Construction methods understanding

Numerical skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Proactive mindset

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Estimator to join a well-established, privately owned residential groundworks and civil engineering contractor. With a strong pipeline of projects and ambitious growth plans, this is an exciting opportunity to become part of a business that values its people and offers long‑term career prospects.

The Role

You will work as part of a collaborative and experienced team, preparing competitive tenders for a wide range of roads, sewers, drainage, and groundworks packages on major housing developments. Due to exciting growth plans, the company are looking for an ambitious individual who is eager to develop their career, with clear opportunities to progress into a Senior Estimator role.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for a range of civil engineering and groundworks packages on major housing developments.
• Analyse tender documents, drawings, and specifications to understand project scope.
• Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain quotations and build cost databases.
• Collaborate with project managers and engineers to ensure estimates reflect practical delivery methods.
• Attend pre‑tender and post‑tender meetings as required.
• Maintain and update estimating tools and systems.

What you'll need to succeed

• Proven experience in estimating within the civil engineering or groundworks sector, on residential projects
• Strong understanding of construction methods and pricing
• Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite (not essential)
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• A proactive, driven, and ambitious mindset - keen to grow with the business

Why Join

• Competitive salary and package, dependent on experience
• Work with a respected company that values people and teamwork
• Be part of a growing business with excellent career development opportunities
• Varied and exciting residential groundworks projects across the region
• Supportive and collaborative working environment

This is a fantastic opportunity for an Estimator looking to take the next step in their career and grow alongside a thriving company. Please contact John Ashcroft for more information (phone number removed).

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies.