Managing Estimator

Reading

Location
Reading
Job type
Permanent
Working
Hybrid
Posted

Job description

Our client is a leading Tier 1 national contractor with a strong presence across the UK highways and infrastructure sector. They are seeking an experienced Managing Estimator to lead estimating activities across major highways maintenance tenders. The role will lead a team of Estimators and take responsibility for delivering accurate, competitive and commercially robust estimates from bid strategy through to tender submission and contract award. The position offers a hybrid working arrangement, with an expectancy to attend head office meeting and coordinate with wider team at least one day per week.

Key Responsibilities

* Lead a team of Estimators delivering major highways maintenance tenders and frameworks.

* Develop detailed cost estimates, pricing models and tender submissions.

* Review tender documentation, identifying key risks, opportunities, assumptions and delivery requirements.

* Coordinate estimating inputs from Commercial, Operations, Design and Procurement teams.

* Ensure estimates are accurate, compliant, competitive and aligned with delivery methodologies.

* Support bid strategy, win themes and commercial positioning.

* Lead risk and opportunity assessments and develop appropriate pricing allowances.

* Engage with supply chain partners to secure competitive quotations and market intelligence.

* Maintain estimating databases, benchmarking information and cost models.

* Support pricing governance, bid reviews and approvals.

* Mentor and develop Estimators and Assistant Estimators.

* Provide estimating expertise through pre-contract and contract award stages.

Candidate Profile

* Significant estimating experience within highways maintenance, term contracts or infrastructure.

* Proven track record of contributing to successful bids and framework submissions.

* Experience leading and developing estimating teams.

* Strong understanding of construction methodologies, temporary works and resource planning.

* Strong commercial awareness and experience of NEC and target cost contracts.

* Ability to manage multiple tenders while maintaining accuracy, quality and governance.

* Strong communication, leadership and stakeholder management skills.

* Ideally experienced within a Tier 1 contractor or major infrastructure organisation

Advert last confirmed live on 4 October 2026 · Partner reference 225681949