Estimator, Engineering, Electrical Engineering

Estimator – High Voltage Substations

Location:

West Midlands, Staffordshire, England Job Type: Permanent, full-time Salary: £48,000 per annum Industry: Engineering / Power Infrastructure

Job Description The Estimator plays a key role within the high voltage power engineering sector by accurately assessing project costs, resources, and requirements for substation and electrical infrastructure projects. This position involves reviewing technical drawings, specifications, tender documentation, and project scopes to produce detailed and competitive estimates. The successful candidate will work closely with the Estimating Manager, engineering teams, project managers, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure estimates are accurate, commercially viable, and aligned with client requirements.

The role requires strong technical knowledge of high voltage substations, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to identify project risks and cost-saving opportunities.

Key Responsibilities Review project documentation including drawings, specifications, technical submissions, and scope of works to develop accurate cost estimates. Prepare detailed estimates for high voltage substation projects, including labour, materials, plant, equipment, and subcontractor costs. Analyse project requirements and develop competitive tender submissions in line with client expectations and company procedures. Obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations, ensuring pricing accuracy and value for money.

Work closely with the Estimating Manager and project teams to review assumptions, clarify requirements, and identify potential risks. Assess project risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions to improve commercial outcomes. Maintain and update estimating databases, cost records, and templates to improve estimating accuracy. Support tender negotiations and provide technical and commercial input throughout the bidding process. Assist with project handovers from tender stage through to delivery.

Monitor market conditions, supplier pricing, and industry trends to support accurate forecasting. Ensure compliance with health and safety standards, quality procedures, and company policies throughout the estimating process.

Required Qualifications Proven experience as an Estimator within the electrical, power, utilities, engineering, or infrastructure sectors. Experience estimating high voltage substations or similar electrical engineering projects. Strong numerical, analytical, and commercial skills with excellent attention to detail. Ability to interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and technical documentation. Competent using estimating software and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organisational skills.

Ability to manage multiple tenders and meet deadlines effectively. Education Minimum of a Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering, Construction, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related discipline. Additional training or certification in estimating, electrical engineering, or cost management would be advantageous. Experience Minimum of three years' experience in an estimating role within the engineering, electrical, utilities, or construction sectors. Experience working on high voltage, substation, or major infrastructure projects.

Demonstrable experience producing accurate and competitive estimates for complex projects. Experience working with suppliers, subcontractors, and project delivery teams. Knowledge and Skills Strong understanding of high voltage electrical systems, substation construction, and engineering principles. Knowledge of procurement processes, tendering procedures, and contract documentation. Understanding of cost control, forecasting, and project risk management. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with wider project teams.

Excellent time management and organisational skills.

Preferred Qualifications Experience working on National Grid, DNO, or major utility infrastructure projects. Knowledge of NEC contracts and tender processes. Membership or working towards membership of a relevant professional body such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), or relevant engineering organisations. Experience using specialist estimating software. Knowledge of sustainability and environmental standards within infrastructure projects.

Working Conditions Office-based role located in Stafford, with occasional visits to project sites within the West Midlands and Staffordshire areas. Standard Monday to Friday working hours. Occasional flexibility may be required to meet tender deadlines and project requirements. Site visits may require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Role involves extensive use of computers, estimating systems, and communication tools.