Lead Estimator
UK
5 days in office
Permanent
Salary circa 90-120k per annum
Location: Buckinghamshire (office-based)
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time
Sector: Construction - Large Warehouses, Manufacturing Facilities & Data Centres
We are seeking an experienced Lead Estimator to join our construction team based in Buckinghamshire. The successful candidate will take ownership of the estimating function for large, complex industrial and mission-critical projects, including warehouses, manufacturing plants, and data centres.
The Lead Estimator will play a critical role in shaping bid strategies, producing accurate and competitive cost estimates, and supporting the successful conversion of tenders into live projects. This role requires strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness, and the ability to lead and mentor an estimating team.
Key ResponsibilitiesLead the preparation of detailed cost estimates and tender submissions for large-scale construction projects.
Review drawings, specifications, schedules, and other tender documentation to identify risks, opportunities, and value engineering options.
Develop accurate cost plans, budgets, and cash flow forecasts at various design stages (concept to construction issue).
Coordinate and analyse subcontractor and supplier quotations, ensuring scope coverage and commercial compliance.
Produce clarifications, exclusions, and value propositions to support competitive tenders.
Lead risk and opportunity reviews, ensuring assumptions are clearly documented.
Define and lead estimating strategies aligned with project complexity, programme, and client requirements.
Support bid management activities, including tender interviews, presentations, and client meetings.
Work closely with Commercial, Design, Planning, and Operations teams to ensure estimates are robust and deliverable.
Contribute to bid/no-bid decisions and workload forecasting.
Provide leadership, mentoring, and technical guidance to estimators and assistant estimators.
Review and challenge estimates prepared by others to ensure accuracy, consistency, and best practice.
Drive continuous improvement in estimating processes, systems, and benchmarking.
Maintain and develop cost databases, rates, and historical project data.
Act as a key point of contact during pre-construction for clients, consultants, and supply chain partners.
Support early contractor involvement (ECI) and two-stage tender processes.
Build strong relationships with key subcontractors and suppliers in the industrial and data centre sectors.
Large-scale logistics and distribution warehouses
Manufacturing and industrial facilities
Data centres and mission-critical infrastructure
Steel frame, concrete, fit-out, MEP-intensive projects
Proven experience as a Lead Estimator or Senior Estimator within the construction industry.
Strong background in industrial, warehouse, manufacturing, or data centre projects.
Ability to price complex, high-value projects with significant MEP and structural elements.
Excellent understanding of construction methods, materials, and current market rates.
Strong commercial and contractual awareness.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications confidently.
Experience leading and reviewing estimates prepared by others.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Experience working on data centre or mission-critical environments.
Familiarity with two-stage tenders, negotiated contracts, and ECI.
Knowledge of modern procurement routes and value engineering techniques.
Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related discipline.
Estimating software (eg Causeway, Candy, Conquest, or similar)
Excel (advanced level)
Take-off and digital measurement tools
ERP/commercial management systems
Detail-oriented with a strong analytical mindset
Commercially astute and solutions-focused
Confident decision-maker with the ability to challenge assumptions
Collaborative leader with a proactive and professional approac