Senior Highways Target Cost Estimator (NEC3/NEC4)

DCS Engineering; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

DCS Engineering in Milton Keynes is seeking an experienced Target Cost Estimator to join the commercial management team on a major highways term contract. You will prepare robust target cost estimates, manage monthly valuations under NEC3/NEC4, and ensure value for money with open-book collaboration with the Client and delivery teams.

The role requires strong numeracy, NEC contract knowledge, advanced Excel, and cost-management system experience. Salary DOE plus £5,000 car allowance is offered.

Qualifications

• Strong numerical, analytical and organisational skills.
• Hands-on NEC3/NEC4 (Option C) contract experience.
• Advanced Excel and cost-management system proficiency.
• Experience in highways or civil engineering commercial/estimating roles.
• Relevant QS/Commercial Management qualification or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed target cost estimates using schedules of rates and pricing mechanisms.
• Price and submit Early Warnings and Compensation Events with QS support.
• Prepare and submit monthly payment applications with full supporting evidence.
• Record and manage costs in systems such as Causeway CPA, SAP and Confirm.
• Monitor variances and escalate risks early for commercial decisions.
• Manage and verify subcontractor costs and payments against budgets.
• Collaborate with operations to clarify scopes and improve estimate accuracy.
• Communicate openly with the Client's commercial representatives.
• Mentor junior commercial team members and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Numerical ability

Analytical thinking

Organisational skills

NEC3/NEC4 knowledge

Excel proficiency

Cost-management systems

Education

HNC/HND or Degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management

Tools

Causeway CPA

SAP

Confirm

Job description

DCS Engineering in Milton Keynes is seeking an experienced Target Cost Estimator to join the commercial management team on a major highways term contract. You will prepare robust target cost estimates, manage monthly valuations under NEC3/NEC4, and ensure value for money with open-book collaboration with the Client and delivery teams.

The role requires strong numeracy, NEC contract knowledge, advanced Excel, and cost-management system experience. Salary DOE plus £5,000 car allowance is offered.