Lead Cost Estimator: Drive Strategic Bids & Projects

Nexos Group; Aberdeen City; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Nexos is seeking an experienced Lead Cost Estimator to own the estimating function across energy, oil & gas, chemicals and infrastructure projects in the Aberdeen area. You will develop robust estimates, lead BoE and WBS creation, and guide a team of estimators while supporting tender submissions.

Collaborating with engineering, project controls, procurement and delivery teams, you will drive cost intelligence, risk-adjusted estimates and margin forecasts to enable winning bids and commercial

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or Cost Engineering.
• Significant experience in a senior estimating role within engineering, construction, energy or industrial sectors.
• Proven track record of leading estimates for large and complex projects.
• Experience managing, mentoring and developing teams.
• Strong commercial acumen with influence on key decisions.
• Professional membership or accreditation (RICS, AACE, CCP).

Responsibilities

• Lead development of accurate and competitive cost estimates from concept to detailed design and execution.
• Prepare and review estimates for engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and project management.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to gather estimating inputs.
• Review supplier and subcontractor quotations for market competitiveness and accuracy.
• Produce client-facing cost presentations, estimate reports and supporting docs.
• Develop Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and Basis of Estimate documents.
• Identify risks and opportunities, develop contingencies and deliver risk-adjusted estimates.
• Support tender submissions with commercial insight and cost intelligence.
• Develop margin forecasts and bid strategies with commercial teams.
• Maintain estimating databases, benchmarking tools, and historical cost records.
• Monitor market trends in labour, materials and equipment costs.
• Lead estimate reviews and mentor estimators for continuous improvement.

Skills

Estimating leadership

Cost modelling

Risk assessment

Bid/tender support

Cost forecasting

Stakeholder management

Education

Engineering/Quantity Surveying degree

Job description

Nexos is seeking an experienced Lead Cost Estimator to own the estimating function across energy, oil & gas, chemicals and infrastructure projects in the Aberdeen area. You will develop robust estimates, lead BoE and WBS creation, and guide a team of estimators while supporting tender submissions.

Collaborating with engineering, project controls, procurement and delivery teams, you will drive cost intelligence, risk-adjusted estimates and margin forecasts to enable winning bids and commercial