Senior Estimator (Civils)

Talisman Talent; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Talisman Talent is seeking a Senior Estimator (Civils) in Manchester to lead cost estimation for civil engineering projects. The role is full-time hybrid, combining on-site and remote work with project teams, clients, and suppliers.

You will review drawings, perform quantity take-offs, analyse quotations, develop detailed cost breakdowns, assess risks, support tenders and bids, maintain estimating tools, track market prices, and mentor junior staff. Strong civils experience is essential.

Qualifications

• Strong civil estimating experience with quantity take-offs, cost analysis and tender prep for infrastructure projects.
• Ability to interpret drawings and specifications and work to deadlines.
• Sound commercial awareness including procurement, subcontractor management and risk assessment.
• Analytical, numerical, and detail-oriented with good communication.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and specifications and perform quantity take-offs.
• Analyze subcontractor and supplier quotations and develop detailed cost breakdowns.
• Assess project risks and contribute to tender strategy and bid submissions.
• Maintain estimating tools and databases and track market prices.
• Provide guidance to less experienced team members.

Skills

Quantity take-offs

Cost analysis

Tender preparation

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Engineering degree or related qualification

Tools

Excel

Estimating software

Cost databases

Job description

Company Description

Talisman Talent is a specialist headhunting consultancy focused on project controls within the engineering sector. With over eight years of experience in engineering recruitment, the consultancy partners with organizations operating in complex, highly regulated environments. Clients rely on Talisman Talent where precision, trust, and sound judgment are more critical than high-volume hiring. The firm was founded to raise recruitment standards through professionalism, integrity, and a genuinely human, relationship-led approach. Applicants can expect a focus on quality, transparency, and long-term career support.

Role Description

The Senior Estimator (Civils) will lead the preparation of accurate, competitive cost estimates for civil engineering projects in the Manchester Area, United Kingdom. This full-time hybrid role involves working both on-site and from home, collaborating closely with project managers, engineers, and commercial teams. Day-to-day responsibilities include reviewing drawings and specifications, conducting quantity take-offs, analyzing subcontractor and supplier quotations, and developing detailed cost breakdowns. The Senior Estimator will assess project risks, contribute to tender strategy, and support bid submissions and presentations. The role also includes maintaining estimating tools and databases, tracking market prices, and providing guidance to less experienced team members.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in civil engineering estimating, including quantity take-offs, cost analysis, and tender preparation for infrastructure or construction projects.
• Proficiency with estimating and project controls tools (e.g., Excel, estimating software, cost databases) and the ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Sound commercial and contractual awareness, including understanding of procurement processes, subcontractor management, and risk assessment.
• Highly developed analytical and numerical skills, with attention to detail and the ability to work to tight deadlines across multiple bids.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to present estimates clearly and work closely with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a hybrid environment, managing time and priorities across office, site, and remote work settings.
• Relevant experience in civils, infrastructure, or construction sectors; prior work in complex or highly regulated environments is advantageous.
• Professional qualification or degree in engineering, quantity surveying, construction management, or a related discipline (or equivalent practical experience).
• Commitment to ethical, professional conduct and continuous improvement in estimating practices and project controls.