Senior Estimator

Description:

As we progress through a major, complex infrastructure programme, we’re looking for a highly experienced Senior Estimator to lead the estimating of piping and mechanical work packages.

This is a pivotal role within the project, providing robust, high‑quality cost estimates that underpin project planning, commercial strategy, change control, and forecasting. Reporting to the Cost Forecasting & Estimating Manager, you’ll play a key role in ensuring cost certainty and commercial confidence across the project lifecycle.

You’ll work as part of a fully integrated team alongside engineering, procurement, construction, commercial and project controls, ensuring estimates accurately reflect scope, risk, delivery strategy and site conditions.

Location: Bristol – Aztec West (minimum 2 days per week in the office)

What you'll be doing

Estimating & Cost Development
 

• Prepare, review and validate detailed cost estimates for major piping and mechanical work packages.
• Develop estimates covering direct labour, materials, equipment, preliminaries, subcontracted services, indirects and allowances.
• Produce and maintain high‑quality Basis of Estimate (BOE) documentation, clearly defining scope, assumptions, methodologies, pricing sources and risk allowances.
   

Structure, Data & Governance
 

• Ensure estimates are fully aligned to the project Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS) and Control Account framework.
• Use historical data, productivity norms and industry benchmarks to validate estimate inputs.
• Lead and participate in estimate reviews, assurance activities and internal governance processes.
   

Commercial & Delivery Integration
 

• Work closely with planning and construction teams to ensure labour resources, installation rates and activity durations reflect the delivery strategy.
• Analyse supplier and subcontractor quotations in collaboration with procurement to ensure completeness and competitiveness.
• Provide estimating input to commercial negotiations, contract awards and cost target setting.
   

Change, Risk & Forecasting
 

• Support change control, trend analysis and re‑estimation as project scope evolves.
• Identify cost risks and opportunities, quantifying uncertainty and supporting contingency development.
• Ensure estimates feed accurately into forecasts, cash flow profiles and budget development in collaboration with Project Controls and Finance.
   

Who we're looking for

Qualifications
 

• Degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying or a related discipline.
• Professional membership desirable (e.g. AACE, RICS, ICES or equivalent).