Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Pinnacle Recruitment are currently looking for an Estimator to work for a growing, well-established provider of water and wastewater services, delivering high-quality solutions across the utilities sector.

As an Estimator, you will be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and compliant cost estimates for water construction and maintenance contracts. You will work closely with commercial, operations and project teams to support bid development, pricing strategy and financial control throughout the tendering and pre-contract phase.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare cost plans, estimates and take-offs for water infrastructure work (e.g., mains & service laying, commissioning, R&M activities).

• Undertake quantity take-offs and review designs, drawings, specifications and scope documents.

• Price labour, plant, materials and subcontract packages; incorporate overheads, contingencies and risk assessments.

• Support bid preparation including forms, tender returns, commercial clarifications and submissions on time.

• Liaise with subcontractors and suppliers to obtain competitive quotations and maintain robust cost data.

• Provide commercial commentary, risk and opportunity reviews for tenders.

• Work with contracts, project managers and site teams to ensure assumptions are valid and buildability is considered.

• Assist in preparing estimating reports and pricing summaries for internal review.

Requirements

Essential:

• Proven estimating experience in the water, utilities or civil engineering sector.

• Strong understanding of construction cost elements (labour, plant, material).

• Proficiency in measurement and estimating techniques (manual and software).

• Excellent numeracy, analytical ability and attention to detail.

• Good communication and teamwork skills.

Desirable:

• Experience with estimating software (e.g., CostX / similar).

• Knowledge of water industry standards and street works.

• Qualifications in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or similar.

• Full clean UK driving licence.