Senior / Lead Estimator

ZipRecruiter; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading regional contractor in Wales is seeking a Lead Estimator to manage the estimating function and influence strategic growth. Candidates should have 8-10 years of experience, with strong skills in estimating software. This role offers significant leadership opportunities and the chance to shape the future of the business in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 8 - 10 years of estimating experience.
• Experience with estimating software is essential.
• Ability to train and mentor junior estimators.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full estimating function.
• Lead tender submissions across various sectors.
• Influence key decisions and contribute strategically.

Skills

Estimating experience

Stakeholder engagement

Mentoring junior estimators

Tools

Estimating software (Causeway, Candy, Procure)

Job description

Job Description

Regional contractor renowned for delivering quality schemes across care homes, brownfield flatted developments, social housing, with typical project values ranging from £7M to £15M.

With a solid regional reputation and a proven track record, the business is built on strong foundations:

• Excellent staff retention and a happy, stable workforce
• Well-structured leadership and operations
• Long-standing client relationships, generating consistent repeat business

Due to the pending retirement of the current post holder, a rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for a Lead Estimator to join the business.

As Lead Estimator, you’ll play a critical role in the business, reporting directly to the Managing Director and working closely with the Commercial Manager and Bid Manager. You will be responsible for:

• Managing the full estimating function
• Leading tender submissions across a range of sectors
• Overseeing and developing the growth of the estimating division
• Supporting the strategic growth of the business

This is more than just another Estimating role; it’s a chance to shape the future of an already thriving company that can offer:

• Strong pipeline: Workload secured through 2025 and 2026
• Growth opportunities: The business is entering a period of sustained growth
• Leadership role: Influence key decisions and contribute at a strategic level
• Company culture: Supportive leadership, collaborative working, and a stable team environment

Key Criteria:

• 8 – 10 years of estimating experience
• Experience of 1st estimating principles and estimating software such as Causeway, Candy, Procure, etc.
• Experience of pricing brownfield flatted residential schemes (desirable)
• Experience leading estimating functions within a construction company
• Senior stakeholder engagement experience
• Ability to train and mentor junior estimators