Lead Estimator - Major Infrastructure Programme

First Technical Recruitment; Orsett; On-site; GBP 83,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

First Recruitment Group is seeking a Lead Estimator to shape cost certainty for a nationally significant infrastructure programme in London on a contract basis. You will lead the estimating function, develop and govern programme estimates, and provide robust supporting analysis to senior stakeholders.

You will integrate input from delivery partners, manage baselines and change control, and drive continuous improvement across estimation systems and reporting frameworks.

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading estimating on large infrastructure programmes.
• Strong cost planning and programme controls knowledge.
• Ability to integrate inputs from multiple delivery partners.
• Experience with baseline development and change control.
• Excellent stakeholder communication to senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating function and set priorities for outputs.
• Own development and maintenance of programme estimates with evidence.
• Act as primary interface with delivery partners on submissions.
• Align estimates with scope, schedule, risk and commercial info.
• Lead baseline development and re-baselining processes.
• Manage inputs into change control and ensure traceability.
• Direct quantitative uncertainty analysis and scenario modelling.
• Apply benchmarking and market intelligence to improve quality.
• Lead estimate assurance and governance reviews with audit trail.
• Present estimate positions, risks, and affordability to senior stakeholders.
• Manage team workload and performance for timely delivery.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating processes.

Skills

Estimating leadership

Infrastructure cost control

Stakeholder management

Risk analysis

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying or related

Tools

Cost modelling tools

Benchmarking data

Job description

First Recruitment Group is seeking a Lead Estimator to shape cost certainty for a nationally significant infrastructure programme in London on a contract basis. You will lead the estimating function, develop and govern programme estimates, and provide robust supporting analysis to senior stakeholders.

You will integrate input from delivery partners, manage baselines and change control, and drive continuous improvement across estimation systems and reporting frameworks.