Estimator, Construction, Quantity Surveyor
Listed on 2026-10-31
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Construction
Estimator, Quantity Surveyor
A leading infrastructure and highways maintenance business is looking for an experienced Target Cost Estimator to join its commercial management team on a major term maintenance highways contract in Milton Keynes.
This is a senior specialist role, responsible for preparing robust target cost estimates and managing monthly valuations under NEC3/NEC4 target-cost arrangements, ensuring accuracy, transparency and value for money.
Reporting to the Commercial Manager, you will play a key role in protecting the business's commercial position while fostering a collaborative, open-book approach with the Client and delivery teams.
Key Responsibilities- Prepare detailed target cost estimates using Schedules of Rates and agreed pricing mechanisms, covering labour, plant, materials, subcontractors, overheads and risk.
- Price and submit Early Warnings and Compensation Events, working closely with Quantity Surveyors to protect contractual entitlement.
- Prepare and submit monthly applications for payment, ensuring 100% of completed work value is captured with full supporting evidence.
- Record and manage costs within systems such as Causeway CPA, SAP and Confirm, maintaining real-time visibility of actual versus target cost.
- Monitor variances and elevate risks early, supporting proactive commercial decision-making.
- Manage and verify subcontractor costs and payments, ensuring accuracy and alignment with project budgets.
- Work collaboratively with operational teams to clarify scopes and improve estimate accuracy.
- Communicate openly and professionally with the Client's commercial representatives.
- Mentor junior commercial team members and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
The ideal candidate will have:
- Strong numerical, analytical and organisational skills.
- Hands‑on experience working with NEC3/NEC4 (Option
C) contracts. - Advanced Excel skills and strong capability with cost‑management systems.
- Strong experience in a commercial or estimating role within the highways or civil engineering sector.
- An HNC, HND, or Degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management (or equivalent practical experience).
- Experience using industry software such as Causeway CPA, SAP, and Confirm.
DCS Recruitment and all associated companies are committed to creating a working environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated fairly, regardless of gender, gender identity, disability, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, age, or nationality
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