Senior Estimator

JN Bentley; Newport; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible benefits package

Tailored development and progression

Job summary

JN Bentley, based in Newport, is seeking a Senior Estimator to join our high‑performing Bidding and Estimating team. You will lead front‑end cost estimation for civil infrastructure projects, collaborating with design, commercial and operations teams to craft competitive, deliverable tenders.

Experience in estimating or civil engineering, strong commercial awareness, and a solid understanding of NEC contracts are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in estimating or civil engineering background within construction/infrastructure.
• Strong commercial awareness and high attention to detail.
• Understanding of NEC contracts and procurement processes.
• Ability to analyse complex information and communicate clearly.
• Collaborative mindset to contribute to a high‑performing team.

Responsibilities

• Preparing accurate, well‑structured first principle cost estimates for civil engineering and infrastructure projects;
• Working with design, commercial and operational teams to develop robust tenders;
• Reviewing drawings, specs and scopes to identify risk, opportunity and value engineering solutions;
• Engaging with the supply chain to secure quotations and price buildable solutions;
• Supporting bid submissions, reviews and tender clarification meetings;
• Applying consistent estimating standards, systems and governance across all bids.

Skills

Estimating experience

Civil engineering background

NEC contracts

Communication skills

Job description

JN Bentley is a leading UK engineering and construction company delivering critical infrastructure across the water, environmental and energy sectors through long‑term, collaborative frameworks. As part of the Mott MacDonald Group, we provide clients with a fully integrated design and build services across England, Wales and Scotland. With an annual turnover exceeding £600m and a strong, growing order book, we offer long‑term career opportunities within a stable and forward‑looking business.

We are seeking a Senior Estimator to join our high‑performing Bidding and Estimating team and play a pivotal role in shaping how major infrastructure projects are secured and delivered. Based from our Newport office, you will work at the front end of projects - collaborating closely with design, commercial and operational teams to develop smart, competitive and deliverable cost-effective solutions.

The role offers exposure to a diverse portfolio of civil engineering schemes across England, Wales and Scotland, ranging from early‑stage feasibility work and smaller value projects to high value complex, multi‑disciplinary schemes. This is a fantastic opportunity to influence project outcomes, add real value, and see your work translate directly into successful delivery on site.

Who We’re Looking For

We are keen to hear from an experienced Senior Estimator. We would also consider applications from civil engineering professionals who are looking to transition into estimating; for example, Quantity Surveyors, Planners, Engineers and experienced site‑based professionals from the water, environmental and energy sectors. If you bring strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness and a clear understanding of how projects are built, we will support you with structured training, mentoring and development to succeed in an estimating role.

The Role Will Involve

• Preparing accurate, well‑structured and commercially sound first principle cost estimates for civil engineering and infrastructure projects;
• Working collaboratively with design, commercial, and operational teams to develop robust and competitive tenders;
• Reviewing drawings, specifications and scopes to identify risk, opportunity and value engineering solutions;
• Engaging proactively with the supply chain to secure quotations and inform buildable, market‑tested pricing;
• Supporting bid submissions, reviews and tender clarification meetings;
• Applying consistent estimating standards, systems and governance across all bids.

What You’ll Bring

• Experience in estimating or a strong civil engineering background within a construction or infrastructure environment;
• Commercial awareness and high attention to detail;
• A working understanding of NEC forms of contract and procurement processes;
• The ability to analyse complex information and communicate it clearly and confidently;
• A collaborative mindset and a desire to learn, develop and contribute to a high‑performing team.

What We Offer

In return, you’ll join a supportive and ambitious business that invests heavily in its people. Alongside a competitive reward package, we offer tailored development and progression aligned to your career goals, backed by the scale and opportunity of the Mott MacDonald Group. Our flexible benefits package allows you to personalise your financial, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits to suit what matters most to you.

To view our full range of benefits, please see the Bentley Benefits brochure attached.