Senior Estimator Lead – Engineering & Construction

DCS Recruitment; Aberdeen City; Hybrid; GBP 81,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

DCS Engineering is seeking a Lead Estimator to oversee cost estimates across engineering and construction projects. You will drive consistency in estimating processes, mentor a team of estimators, and support commercial decisions from concept through execution.

The role requires senior estimating experience, strong cost modelling skills, and the ability to coordinate inputs across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring accurate, competitive bids and robust risk management.

Qualifications

• Senior cost estimating experience in engineering or construction.
• Experience leading estimates for large-scale engineering and construction projects.
• Experience mentoring and developing an estimating team.
• Degree in Engineering or related discipline.
• Knowledge of cost estimating methodologies and benchmarking.
• Experience assessing project risks and contingency allowances.
• Understanding tendering, bid management, and contracts.
• Experience coordinating inputs across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication and analytical skills.
• Membership in professional bodies (RICS/CCP) advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation of cost estimates across EPC, procurement, construction, commissioning and project management activities.
• Coordinate estimating inputs from engineering, commercial, procurement, and supply chain teams.
• Review tender docs and drawings to establish accurate project costs.
• Evaluate supplier quotations and prepare client-facing estimates and clarifications.
• Develop estimating methodologies, cost models, and Basis of Estimate docs.
• Identify cost risks and contingencies to support robust estimates.
• Work with commercial teams to assess gross margins and project performance.
• Maintain cost databases, historical data and benchmarking standards.
• Validate estimates against projects and market trends.
• Lead and develop estimators to ensure consistent standards across the business.
• Support project delivery with budget development and cost forecasting.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating processes and governance.

Skills

Senior estimating

Leadership

Cost modelling

Tendering

Risk assessment

Cost benchmarking

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Engineering degree

Job description

DCS Engineering is seeking a Lead Estimator to oversee cost estimates across engineering and construction projects. You will drive consistency in estimating processes, mentor a team of estimators, and support commercial decisions from concept through execution.

The role requires senior estimating experience, strong cost modelling skills, and the ability to coordinate inputs across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring accurate, competitive bids and robust risk management.