Chief Estimator

Smart4energytalent; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading industrial services provider in the UK is seeking a Chief Estimator to oversee budgeting and estimating processes for complex construction projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in tendering, strong negotiation skills, and familiarity with the civil and industrial sectors. A BSc in a relevant field is preferred, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel is essential. This role requires effective communication and project management skills, contributing to the success of renewable energy infrastructure initiatives.

Qualifications

• Experienced in compiling and submitting tender proposals.
• Skilled in reviewing client commercial terms and identifying risks.
• Proficient in interpreting construction drawings.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for creating budgets and estimates for project bids.
• Monitor submitted tenders and manage the capture of works.
• Align with operational teams on tender schedules and costs.

Skills

Tender proposal compilation

Negotiation skills

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Education

BSc in relevant field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Our client is a leading industrial services provider with a strong heritage in the UK, known for delivering complex demolition, marine decommissioning, offshore wind support, and large-scale land and port development projects. Operating across strategic sites in the North of England, they play a key role in supporting the country's renewable energy infrastructure.

With extensive landholdings and a commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, the company is at the forefront of enabling sustainable industrial growth. Their proactive approach, strong safety culture, and dedication to excellence make them a trusted partner in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

Overview of duties

• The Chief Estimator is a key element of the Tendering team who has overall responsibility for the creation of budgets and estimates for allocated enquiries received and won.
• The Chief Estimator is responsible for the oversight of the estimating process for all allocated project bids and awarded.
• The Chief Estimator will establish standardized procedures, methods and processes for estimating and if required training estimating resources in the use of the same.
• Part of this role is to monitor submitted tenders and manage the capture of the works.

What we are looking for

Tendering & Technical Expertise

• Experienced in compiling and submitting tender proposals, with the ability to learn sector-specific costing requirements in renewable infrastructure.
• Basic technical understanding of civil and industrial sectors, including oil & gas, to support tender preparation and cost estimation.
• Familiarity with dismantling and recycling offshore structures; experience with heavy lifts and moves is advantageous.
• Proficient in interpreting construction drawings, specifications, and scopes of work to identify risks, opportunities, and construct-ability issues.

Commercial & Contractual Acumen

• Skilled in reviewing client commercial terms, identifying risks, and liaising with legal representatives.
• Strong negotiation skills and ability to prepare bid documentation, solicit subcontractor pricing, and analyze cost-effective alternatives.
• Supports project handover, budget translation, and work plan development post-tender award.

Project & Stakeholder Management

• Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills, able to build relationships with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Works closely with operational teams to align on tender schedules, costs, and methodologies.
• Demonstrates time management, attention to detail, and a methodical, independent working style.

Software Proficiency & Documentation

• Advanced user of Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint for costing analysis and project documentation.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.

Qualifications & Certifications

• Previous experience (within last 10 years) as a Proposals Engineer or Estimator with an understanding of demolition, oil and gas industry and where possible civil projects with a willingness to learn offshore wind infrastructure projects.
• Preference is to have a BSc in a relevant degree (such as construction management, quantity surveying or engineering) from an internationally recognised and accredited university.
• Beneficial, but not essential, a minimum of 15 years post chartered experience.
• Previous experience and knowledge in large infrastructure offshore projects is advantageous.
• Experience in demolition is desirable.