Estimator

Ganymede; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive day rate or salary

Flexible working options

Opportunity to work on major projects

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy is seeking a Principal Consultant specializing in Civil Engineering, based in Leeds. You will manage the tendering process for heavy civils projects, preparing cost estimates and identifying new business opportunities. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the civil engineering sector, strong client relationships, and proficiency in estimating software. This position offers a competitive salary or day rate and flexible working options, including freelance arrangements.

Qualifications

• Must have experience in civil engineering estimation, ideally within heavy civils or water frameworks.
• Proven track record of managing successful bids and tenders.
• Skilled in commercial analysis and detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Manage the entire tendering process from enquiry to submission.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates and tender documentation.
• Identify new tenders to support business growth.
• Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with project managers for accurate pricing.

Skills

Civil engineering estimation

Tendering process

Client relationship management

Analytical skills

Proficiency in estimating software

Proficient in MS Excel

Education

Degree in Civil Engineering or Quantity Surveying

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Principal Consultant – Specialist in Civil Engineering

Location: Leeds (2 days in the office) Outside IR35

Type: Full-time, Permanent / freelance opportunity also considered

Sector: Civil Engineering (Water / Heavy Civils / Infrastructure)

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to join a business at the forefront of heavy civil engineering projects including drainage, reinforced concrete structures, and complex groundworks with a particular focus on the water sector.

We are seeking a commercially astute individual who can lead on tendering, bid preparation, and cost estimation, while helping identify and pursue new business opportunities. The right person will bring not only strong technical estimating skills but also valuable client relationships and a deep understanding of the tendering process from start to finish.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end tendering process — from initial enquiry through to submission and post-tender negotiation.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, take-offs, and tender documentation for heavy civils projects (drainage, RC structures, groundworks, etc.).
• Identify and pursue new tenders, supporting business growth and client engagement strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with both existing and prospective clients, consultants, and suppliers.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, planners, and commercial teams to ensure accurate and competitive pricing.
• Provide value engineering input, ensuring estimates reflect both efficiency and innovation.
• Support ongoing project reviews, ensuring budgets align with delivery forecasts.

About You

We’re looking for an Estimator who is:

• Experienced in civil engineering estimation, ideally within heavy civils or water frameworks.
• Skilled in the tendering process, with a track record of winning and managing bids successfully.
• Commercially aware, analytical, and detail-driven.
• Confident building and maintaining relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Proficient in relevant estimating software and MS Excel.
• Degree-qualified (Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field) or with equivalent experience.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive day rate or salary (depending on experience and engagement type).
• Flexible working options (freelance or permanent).
• Opportunity to work on major framework projects within the water and infrastructure sectors.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking team environment.