Lead Estimator

Pontoon; West Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 83,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

Pontoon is seeking a Lead Estimator for a fixed-term 8-month contract in the UK. Location: Warwick or Nottingham (Hybrid: 2 days onsite). Daily rate: £450-£500 umbrella. You will deliver detailed cost estimates, manage budgets, and lead cost-control efforts across major construction projects.

The ideal candidate will have CCP/CEP credentials (AACE/APM) and a track record in large-scale construction cost estimation. Travel may be required occasionally.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in cost estimation for major construction/engineering projects.
• A proven track record leading cost estimation efforts and managing budgets.
• Strong collaboration with project managers, engineers and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of detailed cost estimates for major construction projects, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Gather and analyse data on materials, labour and duration to inform estimates using historical and market trends.
• Oversee tenders and bids, evaluating submissions to secure best value.
• Monitor project costs, identify variances and implement corrective actions.
• Identify cost risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Mentor and support team, driving high performance and growth.
• Collaborate with project managers and stakeholders to align estimates with goals.
• Maintain records and produce reports on cost performance for senior stakeholders.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and propose alternative methods or materials.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and company policies.
• Drive continuous improvement in processes and tools using best practices.

Job description

Job Title: Lead Estimator
Location: Warwick or Nottingham (Hybrid Working, 2 days onsite per week). Travel may be required on occasion.
Contract Length: 8 Months
Rate: £450-£500 per day (umbrella)

Our client, a leading player in the national gas sector, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Estimator to join their team on a fixed-term contract basis. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to essential construction projects that secure energy for millions across Britain. If you have a passion for cost estimation and a knack for strategic thinking, this could be your next career move!

About the Role:

As the Lead Estimator, you will play a pivotal role in delivering projects on time and within budget, ensuring maximum impact and financial viability at every stage. Your expertise in cost estimation, budgeting, and risk management will significantly shape the future of construction projects for our client.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cost Estimation & Budgeting: Lead the preparation of detailed cost estimates for major construction projects, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Gather and analyse data on materials, labour, and project duration to inform estimates using historical and market trends.
• Tender & Bid Preparation: Oversee competitive tenders and bids, evaluating contractor and supplier submissions to secure the best value.
• Cost Control & Monitoring: Track project costs throughout the life cycle, identify variances, and implement corrective actions.
• Risk Assessment: Identify significant cost risks and develop robust mitigation strategies.
• Leadership: Mentor and support your team, driving high performance and professional growth.
• Collaboration: Work closely with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to align cost estimates with project goals.
• Reporting & Documentation: Maintain transparent records and produce regular reports on cost performance for senior stakeholders.
• Value Engineering: Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend alternative methods or materials.
• Compliance & Standards: Ensure all activities meet industry standards and company policies.
• Continuous Improvement: Enhance processes and tools, applying best practises and lessons learned to future projects.

About You:

The ideal candidate will be a confident, strategic thinker with a proven track record in cost estimation for large-scale construction or engineering projects. AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP) or Certified Estimating Professional (CEP) credentials are essential.

Key Requirements:

• Experience producing project cost estimates across the full project life cycle, from Class 5 conceptual estimates through to detailed Class 1 bottom-up estimates.
• Extensive experience in cost estimation for large-scale construction or engineering projects.
• Proven ability to lead cost estimation efforts, manage budgets, and provide strategic guidance.
• Working knowledge of contract management, design management, procurement, and project management.
• Ability to thrive in a team environment and lead projects to success.
• Qualified in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Cost Engineering, or a similar technical discipline.

Desirable Qualifications:

• PRINCE2 Practitioner, APM PMQ, or similar.
• RICS Certificate in Construction Project Management.
• Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or Quantity Surveying.

Why Join Our Client?

This role offers the chance to work with a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to transforming the energy landscape for a net-zero future. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, our client encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. This is not just a job; it's a chance to make a significant impact in the energy sector while working in a supportive and innovative environment.

We use generative AI tools to support our candidate screening process. This helps us ensure a fair, consistent, and efficient experience for all applicants. Rest assured, all final decisions are made by our hiring team, and your application will be reviewed with care and attention.