Senior Estimator

Workvine Limited; Devon and Torbay; Hybrid; GBP 63,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading marine engineering company is seeking a Senior Estimator to lead the estimating process for high-value projects. You will be responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates, collaborating with various departments, and ensuring competitive bids. The role offers a salary up to £75,000, bonuses, a company car, and hybrid working options. Ideal candidates will have experience in marine civil engineering and strong analytical skills, contributing to innovative infrastructure projects across the UK.

Benefits

Life assurance (3x salary)

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Pension scheme matched up to 10%

Healthcare

Opportunities to work on iconic projects

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Estimator in marine civil or heavy infrastructure projects.
• Sound understanding of marine construction techniques and environmental constraints.
• Full UK driving licence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and prepare cost estimates for marine engineering projects.
• Review specifications to determine scope and risk.
• Collaborate with teams to align bids with project methodology.

Skills

Marine construction experience

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree or HND in Civil Engineering or related discipline

Tools

Estimating software

Microsoft Office

Job description

We’re looking for a Senior Estimator to join the team at TMS Maritime, a leader in marine civil engineering and coastal infrastructure. This opportunity has arisen due to continued growth and project success as we expand our capability to deliver some of the UK’s most complex and rewarding marine engineering schemes. You’ll enjoy a salary up to £75 000 plus bonus, company car, pension (matched up to 10%), life assurance & healthcare, along with hybrid working options and the chance to make a real impact in a collaborative people‑first culture.

If you’re passionate about cost planning and marine construction – and ready to lead bids that shape the nation’s ports, harbours, and coastlines – this could be your next move.

About TMS Maritime

TMS Maritime embodies an aspirational spirit rooted in innovation and responsibility. We strive to lead the marine civil engineering sector through technical excellence, sustainability (we’re the very first and only marine civils contractor in the UK to be officially certified Stage 1 and Stage 2 carbon neutral), and social impact. Our team culture reflects a strong sense of family and inclusivity where collaboration, safety and mutual respect are paramount. You’ll be joining a team that values individual contribution, supports professional development and works together to deliver lasting results, encouraging everyone to reach their potential. This unique DNA combines technical excellence with community engagement, whether through apprenticeships, charity initiatives or environmental stewardship, creating a workplace that is both purpose‑driven and people‑focussed.

The Role

As Senior Estimator you’ll lead the estimating process for high‑value marine civil engineering projects – from concept through to bid submission. Working closely with the Head of Estimating you’ll provide hands‑on technical input and commercial insight to ensure all tenders are accurate, competitive and risk‑aware. You’ll collaborate across multiple departments – including engineering planning and commercial – to develop realistic programmes, identify value engineering opportunities and support pricing strategy at board level. This is a highly visible role within TMS Maritime and offers the opportunity to influence how we win, plan and deliver projects nationwide.

Job Details

Hours: Full‑time permanent
Location: Dawlish – flexible hybrid
Salary: Up to £75 000 + bonus + company car + benefits

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead and prepare detailed cost estimates for marine and heavy civil engineering projects
• Review drawings, specifications and contract documents to determine scope, risk and resourcing
• Prepare and validate take‑offs, production rates and plant and material costs
• Collaborate with commercial engineering and operations teams to align bids with delivery methodology
• Engage with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive quotations and ensure bid compliance
• Oversee bid preparation, ensuring submissions are high‑quality, accurate and on time
• Support mentoring of junior estimators and promote best practice across the team
• Contribute to continuous improvement and digital innovation within estimating – including the use of AI tools in bid preparation

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience as a Senior Estimator within marine civil or heavy infrastructure projects
• Sound understanding of marine construction techniques, risks and environmental constraints
• Strong commercial and contractual awareness (NEC experience advantageous)
• Excellent analytical, numerical and communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, estimating and project planning software
• Ability to read and interpret drawings and technical documentation
• Collaborative mindset with the confidence to liaise effectively across departments
• Full UK driving licence (essential)

Desirable

• Experience in marine piling, dredging or coastal defence
• Degree or HND in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or related discipline
• Experience in bidding frameworks
• Previous mentoring or leadership experience

Why Join TMS Maritime

At TMS we’re proud to do things differently. We’re big enough to deliver major infrastructure projects but small enough to value every individual contribution. You’ll be part of a supportive down‑to‑earth team where your ideas are heard, your expertise is recognised and your career can grow.

• Three‑time salary life assurance (Death in Service)
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service
• Company pension scheme matched up to 10% contribution
• Company healthcare
• Hybrid working options (with flexibility for home‑based candidates)
• Opportunities to work on iconic marine infrastructure projects across the UK
• A culture that genuinely encourages collaboration, diversity and continuous improvement

Join us and play a key part in shaping the future of sustainable marine construction: Click to Apply