Strategic Lead Estimator - Engineering & Construction

DCS Engineering; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 81,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

DCS Engineering are recruiting a Lead Estimator to oversee accurate, competitive cost estimates for a range of engineering and construction projects. The role involves leading a team, driving consistency, and supporting commercial decisions from concept to execution.

This is an excellent opportunity to shape estimating practices, develop cost models, and maintain benchmarks across the business, ensuring margins are robust and risks are well managed.

Qualifications

• Senior cost estimating experience in engineering/construction environments.
• Proven ability to lead estimates for large-scale projects.
• Experience mentoring estimating teams.
• Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Cost Engineering or related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of cost estimating methodologies, cost modelling and benchmarking.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of cost estimates across engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and project management activities.
• Coordinate estimating inputs from engineering, commercial, procurement, construction and supply chain teams.
• Review tender documentation, specifications, drawings and scopes of work to establish accurate project costs.
• Evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations and prepare client-facing estimates, proposals and clarifications.
• Develop estimating methodologies, cost models, work breakdown structures and Basis of Estimate documentation.
• Identify cost risks, opportunities and contingency allowances to support robust, risk-adjusted estimates.
• Work with commercial teams to assess expected gross margins, profitability and overall project performance.
• Maintain cost databases, historical project data, productivity benchmarks and estimating norms.
• Validate estimates against previous projects, market trends and industry benchmarks.
• Lead, mentor and develop estimators, ensuring consistent standards and estimating procedures across the business.
• Support project delivery teams with budget development, cost forecasting, variations, change orders and claims.
• Drive continuous improvement across estimating processes, systems and governance.

Skills

Cost estimating

Team leadership

Cost modelling

Tendering

Risk assessment

Project management

Communication

Data analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Mentoring

Education

Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Cost Engineering

Job description

DCS Engineering are recruiting a Lead Estimator to oversee accurate, competitive cost estimates for a range of engineering and construction projects. The role involves leading a team, driving consistency, and supporting commercial decisions from concept to execution.

This is an excellent opportunity to shape estimating practices, develop cost models, and maintain benchmarks across the business, ensuring margins are robust and risks are well managed.