Estimator

JN Bentley; Newport; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

JN Bentley, a leading UK engineering and construction company, is recruiting an Estimator to support the Bidding and Estimating team from our Newport office. The role focuses on forming cost-effective, competitive estimates and shaping how major infrastructure projects are secured and delivered.

You will work closely with design, commercial and operational teams to develop robust tenders, review specifications, and engage supply chain partners to secure market-tested pricing while maintaining

Qualifications

• Experience in estimating or strong civil engineering background in construction.
• Commercial awareness and high attention to detail.
• Understanding of NEC forms of contract and procurement processes.
• Ability to analyse complex information and communicate clearly.
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to learn within a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate, well-structured first principle cost estimates for civil projects.
• Collaborate with design, commercial and operations teams to develop tenders.
• Review drawings and specs to identify risk, opportunities and VE solutions.
• Engage with supply chain to secure quotations and inform pricing.
• Support bid submissions, reviews and tender clarification meetings.
• Apply consistent estimating standards, systems and governance across bids.

Skills

Estimating experience

Civil engineering background

Commercial awareness

Attention to detail

NEC contracts knowledge

Analytical communication

Team collaboration

Job description

JN Bentley is a leading UK engineering and construction company delivering critical infrastructure across the water, environmental and energy sectors through long‑term, collaborative frameworks. As part of the Mott MacDonald Group, we provide clients with a fully integrated design and build services across England, Wales and Scotland. With an annual turnover exceeding £600m and a strong, growing order book, we offer long‑term career opportunities within a stable and forward‑looking business.

We are seeking an Estimator to join our high‑performing Bidding and Estimating team and play a pivotal role in shaping how major infrastructure projects are secured and delivered. Based from our Newport office, you will work at the front end of projects - collaborating closely with design, commercial and operational teams to develop smart, competitive and deliverable cost‑effective solutions.

The role offers exposure to a diverse portfolio of civil engineering schemes across England, Wales and Scotland, ranging from early‑stage feasibility work and smaller value projects to high value complex, multi‑disciplinary schemes. This is a fantastic opportunity to influence project outcomes, add real value, and see your work translate directly into successful delivery on site.

Who We’re Looking For

We are keen to hear from an experienced Estimator. We would also consider applications from civil engineering professionals who are looking to transition into estimating; for example, Quantity Surveyors, Planners, Engineers and experienced site‑based professionals from the water, environmental and energy sectors. If you bring strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness and a clear understanding of how projects are built, we will support you with structured training, mentoring and development to succeed in an estimating role.

As An Estimator, You Will

• Preparing accurate, well‑structured and commercially sound first principle cost estimates for civil engineering and infrastructure projects;
• Working collaboratively with design, commercial, and operational teams to develop robust and competitive tenders;
• Reviewing drawings, specifications and scopes to identify risk, opportunity and value engineering solutions;
• Engaging proactively with the supply chain to secure quotations and inform buildable, market‑tested pricing;
• Supporting bid submissions, reviews and tender clarification meetings;
• Applying consistent estimating standards, systems and governance across all bids.

What You’ll Need

• Experience in estimating or a strong civil engineering background within a construction or infrastructure environment;
• Commercial awareness and high attention to detail;
• A working understanding of NEC forms of contract and procurement processes;
• The ability to analyse complex information and communicate it clearly and confidently;
• A collaborative mindset and a desire to learn, develop and contribute to a high‑performing team.

What’s In It For You

In return, you’ll join a supportive and ambitious business that invests heavily in its people. Alongside a competitive reward package, we offer tailored development and progression aligned to your career goals, backed by the scale and opportunity of the Mott MacDonald Group. Our flexible benefits package allows you to personalise your financial, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits to suit what matters most to you.

To view our full range of benefits, please see the Bentley Benefits brochure attached.