Principal Estimator

Principal Estimator - Transportation
Location: Warrington (hybrid working on offer)
Salary: £80,000 - £100,000 + £8,000 car/travel allowance

We are working on an exclusive basis with a major Tier 1 infrastructure contractor and supporting them with their search for a Principal Estimator to take on a lead role within their busy and growing Transportation business unit.

This is a senior position, reporting directly to the Business Unit Director. The Principal Estimator will be responsible for leading the estimating function across a portfolio of rail and highways projects, while also supporting the business as it expands into new transportation and logistics-related markets.

You will manage a small estimating team (circa 3-4 staff) and play a key role in shaping best practice, driving consistency, and supporting bid strategies on major programmes of work.

As Principal Estimator, you will act as the primary estimating lead on large-scale programmes and high-value tenders, whilst working closely with senior stakeholders across pre-construction, commercial and delivery teams.

Some of the Principal Estimators key responsibilities will include:
Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the estimating function on major transportation schemes across rail, highways and new markets
• Managing, mentoring and developing a team of Estimators
• Producing robust, bottom-up estimates using company processes
• Preparing Bills of Quantities and enquiry schedules from drawings and specifications
• Reviewing and evaluating subcontractor and supplier quotations
• Identifying design and tender deliverables and liaising with project designers
• Inputting into risk registers and attending risk review meetings
• Presenting estimates at tender settlement meetings and client reviews
• Supporting tender handovers and ensuring continuity into delivery teams
• Driving best practice in estimating, health & safety, and environmental compliance
• Supporting the development of estimating databases and post-tender cost feedback

Requirements

• Degree-level education (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline
• Proven experience as a Senior or Principal level estimator on large-scale infrastructure programmes for a Tier 1 contractor
• Experience managing and developing Estimators
• Strong background in bottom-up pricing across a range of work types
• Ability to clearly communicate cost, risk and value to senior management and clients
• Exposure to rail and/or highways projects (essential)
• Strong working knowledge of Candy estimating software (highly desirable)

The Principal Estimator can expect a rewarding role that includes room for extensive career progression, exposure to a wide range of exciting projects and a generous salary and package that includes:

• Starting salary of £80,000 - £100,000
• £8,000 car or travel allowance
• 27 days annual leave + bank holidays (with the option to buy additional days)
• Competitive pension scheme
• Private healthcare and life assurance
• Ongoing investment in professional development
• Hybrid working: 4 days office-based, 1 day remote
• Long-term career opportunity within a growing and well-capitalised infrastructure business

If you're an Estimator or Senior Estimator looking for opportunities for career progression or a Principal Estimator looking to step into a leadership role within a well-established infrastructure contractor, get in touch today.

Services advertised by Gold Group are those of an Agency and/or an Employment Business.
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