Overhead Lines Assistant Estimator

OCU Group; Colden Common; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

OCU Group is seeking an Overhead Lines Assistant Estimator to support the development of accurate cost estimates for major electrical infrastructure projects, from 11kV to 132kV substations and related underground cabling. This office-based role in the South West offers exposure to design-and-build projects within a leading UK power contractor.

You will work with experienced estimators, engineers and project managers, developing cost build-ups, tender documentation and risk assessments, while

Qualifications

• Experience in estimating, commercial, engineering, construction, or project support.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage priorities.
• Proficient in Excel and MS Office.
• Willingness to learn and develop professionally.
• Able to work well in a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Support the preparation of cost estimates for substation, underground cable, and electrical infrastructure projects.
• Review drawings, specifications, schedules, and tender documents to assist with pricing.
• Obtain and evaluate quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Assist in developing cost build-ups, estimate summaries, and tender submission documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering, design, commercial and operations teams to gather project data.
• Identify project risks, opportunities and value engineering options during estimating.
• Maintain estimating records, cost databases and historical project information.
• Support tender submissions and participate in bid reviews and commercial evaluations.

Skills

Numerical skills

Analytical skills

Written & verbal communication

Organisational skills

Excel proficiency

Proactive learning

Team collaboration

Education

Degree / equivalent in QS/Construction/Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Excel

Job description

Overhead Lines Assistant Estimator

Department: Regulated Power

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: South West

Reporting To: James Sibley

Description

Location: South West | Contract Type: Permanent | Working Pattern: Full-Time | Office Based

Pay / Benefits: Remuneration for this role is benchmarked competitively within our sector.

OCU is delivering some of the UK's most significant power infrastructure projects, supporting the growth and resilience of the electricity network. As an Assistant Estimator, you'll support the development of accurate and competitive cost estimates for major electrical infrastructure schemes, helping to secure future work and support successful project delivery.

Working alongside experienced Estimators, Engineers, Designers, and Project Managers, you'll gain hands‑on exposure to a variety of projects including 11kV to 132kV substations and associated underground cabling works delivered on a full design and build basis. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop a long‑term career in estimating within the power sector.

What You'll Do

• Support the preparation of cost estimates for substation, underground cable, and electrical infrastructure projects.
• Review drawings, specifications, schedules, and tender documentation to assist with pricing activities.
• Obtain and evaluate quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Assist in developing cost build-ups, estimate summaries, and tender submission documentation.
• Work closely with engineering, design, commercial, and operational teams to gather project information.
• Help identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering options during the estimating process.
• Maintain estimating records, cost databases, and historical project information.
• Support the submission of tenders and assist with bid reviews and commercial evaluations.

What You'll Bring

• Previous experience within an estimating, commercial, engineering, construction, or project support environment.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• A proactive approach to learning and professional development.
• Ability to work effectively within a collaborative team environment.

• Experience within the power, utilities, infrastructure, engineering, or construction sectors.
• Bonus if you have exposure to estimating activities within civil or electrical projects.
• It would be great if you have experience working on substation, cable, or utility infrastructure projects.
• It would be great if you have an understanding of construction contracts and commercial principles.
• A degree, HNC, HND, or equivalent qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction, Engineering, or a related discipline would be advantageous.
• Awareness of UK health and safety practices and industry standards would be beneficial.

What We Offer

At OCU, we believe that meaningful work should come with meaningful support. That's the principle behind Careers with Purpose, our commitment to ensuring every person at OCU feels supported, developed, and valued, not just in their role today, but throughout their career with us.

Alongside the opportunity to work on some of the UK's most significant infrastructure projects, we offer a benefits package that we are continuing to develop as we grow, and the kind of career acceleration that only comes from being inside a business moving at this pace.

As a rapidly growing organisation, there are genuine opportunities to progress, broaden your experience, and build a long‑term career within OCU Group.