Lead Estimator: Cost Intelligence & Benchmarking (Hybrid)

Pontoon Solutions; Warwick; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

Pontoon Solutions in the United Kingdom is seeking a Lead Estimator (Cost Intelligence & Benchmarking) to redefine its estimating capability across major infrastructure programmes. The role combines technical cost engineering with data-driven decision support and a focus on benchmarking and cost intelligence.

Based in Warwick with hybrid work (office 2 days per week), you will develop estimating systems, maintain cost databases, mentor junior staff, and deliver actionable insights through

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in cost estimation within major infrastructure, engineering, or energy projects.
• Proven track record in developing estimating systems, methodologies, or cost intelligence frameworks.
• Strong expertise in benchmarking, estimate validation, and cost assurance.
• Familiarity with NEC4 contracts and project controls.

Responsibilities

• Enhance and standardise estimating methodologies across major programmes.
• Develop and improve estimating systems, tools, templates, and processes.
• Build and maintain cost databases, resource libraries, output rates, and productivity norms.
• Mentor junior estimators to support capability development across the team.
• Design and implement a comprehensive benchmarking framework.
• Develop benchmark rates, productivity measures, and cost intelligence datasets.
• Analyse historical project performance and market data to identify trends.
• Provide reliable cost intelligence and benchmarking insights for investment decisions.
• Capture and analyse cost, productivity, and programme data from live and completed projects.
• Improve the quality and accessibility of estimating data, translating complex datasets into actionable insights.
• Develop reporting tools and dashboards to support decision-making and estimating maturity.
• Build strong relationships with project management, engineering, procurement, and leadership teams.
• Act as a subject matter expert for benchmarking, cost intelligence, and estimating best practises.
• Influence stakeholders through data-driven recommendations and assurance activities.

Skills

Eclipse Estimating

Advanced Excel

Benchmarking

Cost estimation

Data analysis

Stakeholder management

NEC4 contracts knowledge

Power BI

Education

AACE CCP or CEP certification

Tools

Eclipse Estimating

Excel (Advanced)

Power BI

Job description

Pontoon Solutions in the United Kingdom is seeking a Lead Estimator (Cost Intelligence & Benchmarking) to redefine its estimating capability across major infrastructure programmes. The role combines technical cost engineering with data-driven decision support and a focus on benchmarking and cost intelligence.

Based in Warwick with hybrid work (office 2 days per week), you will develop estimating systems, maintain cost databases, mentor junior staff, and deliver actionable insights through