Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Coventry, England

Talented people are the key to our success.

We are seeking a proficient and motivated Estimator—or an experienced Site Management professional looking to progress into a pre‑contract role—to join our Water, Aviation and Highways pre‑contract team. You will support the development of both current and future tendering opportunities, contributing to the successful delivery of a diverse portfolio of schemes.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for someone eager to enhance their technical capability, broaden their commercial understanding, and take on increasing levels of responsibility within a collaborative and high‑performing team.

• Work collaboratively within the pre‑contract WAH estimating team to prepare tender estimates from first principles and supply‑chain engagement.
• Review tender documentation to confirm scope, identify risks and opportunities, and support tender strategy development.
• Conduct site inspections to understand tender requirements and assess conditions that may influence pricing.
• Take off quantities, define permanent and temporary works packages, and produce detailed bills of quantities to standard method of measurements.
• Engage with subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive quotations for subcontract packages and materials.
• Compile complete tender submissions, ensuring all client return schedules, programmes, and supporting documents are accurate and approved.
• Consult with all internal stakeholders throughout the tender process, responding to queries and incorporating feedback into revisions.
• Analyse large datasets and support the creation of dashboards or reports to improve commercial insight.
• Review contract details, support negotiations, and coordinate the contract award and handover process to project teams.
• Provide guidance and mentoring to direct reports, supporting delegation, development, and performance management.
• Maintain productive relationships with customers and stakeholders while identifying new business opportunities and monitoring industry developments.
• Contribute to continuous improvement by reviewing and refining estimating procedures and working methods.

• Experience in civil engineering construction methods, preliminary site cost requirements, construction planning techniques and estimating concepts.
• Ability to prepare estimates from first principles and evaluate and compare subcontract quotations.
• Competence in defining permanent and temporary works scopes.
• Strong skills in interpreting drawings and completing accurate quantity take‑offs.
• Familiarity with the estimating software CANDY and Bluebeam the quantity take‑off tool (desirable; training available).
• Ability to manage and analyse large datasets and produce clear dashboards/reports.
• Degree educated (preferred).
• Solid understanding of project management principles and construction standards.
• Awareness of current health and safety requirements.
• Strong teamwork, communication and people skills.
• Effective planning and time‑management capabilities.
• Ability to ensure technical standards and specifications are met.
• Self‑motivated with the ability to support and guide colleagues.
• Specialist knowledge relevant to civil engineering or estimating.

• Generous holiday entitlement with the option to buy five days.
• Flexible and adaptable working.
• Family‑friendly policies and work/life approach.
• Mentoring programmes and continuous learning support.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Annual bonus scheme.
• Recognition scheme and long‑service awards.
• Car scheme and private medical insurance (if applicable to role).
• Option to participate in share‑save scheme; discounts including cycle‑to‑work and gym membership; support and advice service for colleagues and their families.

Our Water team designs, builds, and maintains vital UK water infrastructure, ensuring a secure water supply and wastewater services. We work with major water companies to create resilient facilities, reduce flood risks, and improve environmental outcomes. Currently, we participate in the Welsh Water AMP7 and AMP8 frameworks and have secured projects with…