Senior Estimator - Utilities

Ceto Talent; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ceto Talent in Hemel Hempstead is seeking a seasoned Senior Estimator to lead our tendering activities across pre-construction. You will own the end-to-end process, build robust commercial proposals and drive profitability through accurate cost modelling.

You will collaborate with operations, clients, subcontractors and suppliers, mentor the estimating team, and ensure bids meet framework and contractual requirements.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Senior Estimator or similar estimating role within construction, civil engineering or utilities.
• Track record of preparing successful tenders and contributing to profitable projects.
• Experience leading, supporting or mentoring an estimating team.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, labour, plant and costs.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full tender preparation process from receipt to adjudication and submission.
• Produce accurate and competitive tenders by interpreting technical, commercial, operational and contractual requirements.
• Carry out quantity take-offs from drawings and BIM/CAD models.
• Build up rates for labour, plant and materials from first principles.
• Prepare subcontractor enquiries, review quotations and tender returns.
• Ensure tender deliverables are completed accurately within timescales.
• Lead tender appraisals and prepare competitive net bids.
• Identify commercial risks and communicate issues with tenders.
• Ensure compliance with framework agreements, pricing schedules and contracts.
• Support handover from tender to project delivery and train the estimating team.

Skills

Senior Estimator experience

Commercial awareness

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Education

Degree in Construction Management or Civil Engineering

Tools

BIM software

CAD software

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Estimator to join our Commercial team. This is a key role within the pre-construction phase, responsible for preparing accurate, competitive and commercially viable tenders to support business growth and secure profitable projects.

The successful candidate will take ownership of the tendering process from initial receipt through to adjudication, negotiation and final submission. You will work closely with operational teams, clients, subcontractors and suppliers to ensure bids are comprehensive, competitive and aligned with project requirements.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Estimator with strong commercial awareness, excellent analytical skills and proven experience in the construction or utilities sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full tender preparation process, from receipt of tender documentation through to adjudication, negotiation and timely submission.
• Interpret technical, commercial, operational and contractual requirements to produce accurate and competitive tenders.
• Undertake detailed quantity take-offs from drawings, specifications and BIM/CAD models.
• Build up accurate rates for labour, plant and materials from first principles.
• Prepare and issue subcontractor enquiries, review quotations and interpret tender returns.
• Ensure all tender deliverables are completed accurately and within agreed timescales.
• Complete tender appraisals and prepare commercially advantageous, competitive net bids.
• Ensure tender submissions comply with relevant framework agreements, pricing schedules and contractual requirements.
• Identify and communicate commercial risks, operational challenges and potential issues associated with individual tenders or groups of bids.
• Ensure appropriate allowances are included for health and safety requirements, project risks and realistic delivery programmes.
• Liaise with operational teams to ensure a smooth transition from tender adjudication through to project handover.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, industry standards, client specifications and best practice.
• Lead, support and mentor members of the estimating team, encouraging professional development and high standards of performance.
• Undertake site visits and engage with operational teams to gather feedback and improve future tender submissions.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors, suppliers and internal stakeholders.

About You

We are looking for a proactive, commercially aware professional who can manage multiple tenders, work effectively under pressure and deliver high-quality submissions to demanding deadlines.

You will have excellent attention to detail, strong numerical and analytical abilities, and the confidence to challenge assumptions, identify risks and contribute to successful commercial outcomes.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in a Senior Estimator or similar estimating role within the construction, civil engineering or utilities sector.
• A demonstrable track record of preparing successful tenders and contributing to the award of profitable projects.
• Experience leading, supporting or mentoring an estimating team.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, labour, plant and associated costs.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, tender documentation and contractual requirements.
• Experience carrying out quantity take-offs and building up rates from first principles.
• Strong commercial awareness and an understanding of tender risk, cost control and project profitability.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to manage competing priorities.
• A proactive and independent approach, with the ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

A degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant industry experience.

In-depth knowledge of construction materials, methods and industry best practice.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working within the utilities sector.
• Familiarity with Building Information Modelling (BIM) and relevant estimating or CAD software.
• Experience working with framework agreements and schedule-of-rates pricing.

Additional Information

• Flexibility may be required to work outside standard hours when project deadlines demand.
• The role will involve working across operational sites and attending external meetings, with occasional travel required.
• A full, valid driving licence is required.
• A basic DBS check may be required.

What We're Looking For

We value people who take ownership, act responsibly, look for better ways of working and support the success of their colleagues. The successful candidate will demonstrate integrity, accountability, a commitment to continuous improvement and a collaborative approach to achieving shared goals.

If you are an experienced Estimator looking for a senior role where you can make a meaningful contribution to tender strategy, commercial performance and business growth, we would welcome your application