Principal Estimator

Nicholas Associates; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Car allowance

Pension scheme

Bonus

Job summary

Nicholas Associates seeks an experienced Estimator to lead cost estimation and tendering for groundworks and civil projects, from £5m to £50m+. You will analyse drawings and specs, develop accurate bids and present them to clients.

The role requires strong numeracy, proficiency with estimating software (Conquest or similar) and Excel, and the ability to lead tender presentations with commercial awareness.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Estimator or Senior Estimator in civil engineering or related sectors.
• Strong technical understanding of civil engineering works.
• Excellent numeracy, attention to detail and commercial awareness.
• Proficient with estimating software and Microsoft Excel.
• Confident communicator capable of leading tender presentations and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and lead detailed cost estimates for groundworks and civil engineering projects.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and other documentation to prepare comprehensive tenders.
• Work closely with the commercial, technical, and operational teams.
• Attend pre- and post-tender meetings with clients and internal stakeholders.
• Identify risk and opportunity in tender submissions.

Skills

Estimating

Tendering

Leadership

Communication

Numeracy

Tools

Conquest Estimating

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Role

You will play a pivotal role in the pre‑construction process, leading the pricing and tendering for projects ranging from £5m to £50m+. You will collaborate with clients, engineers, and project managers to develop accurate and competitive bids.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and lead detailed cost estimates for groundworks and civil engineering projects
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and other documentation to prepare comprehensive tenders
• Work closely with the commercial, technical, and operational teams
• Attend pre‑ and post‑tender meetings with clients and internal stakeholders
• Identify risk and opportunity in tender submissions

About You

• Proven experience as an Estimator or Senior Estimator in civil engineering, infrastructure, energy, power
• Strong technical understanding of civil engineering works
• Excellent numeracy, attention to detail, and commercial awareness
• Proficient with estimating software and Microsoft Excel
• Confident communicator, capable of leading tender presentations and negotiations
• Experience using Conquest Estimating system or similar

What’s on Offer

• A respected position within a long‑established, financially secure company
• Opportunities to work on flagship UK projects
• Supportive team environment with long‑term career progression
• Competitive salary or rate, car allowance, pension scheme, and bonus

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we’re happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies.