Lead Estimator – Swindon – 70k – 80k + package

Overview

As Chief/Lead Estimator, you will lead a estimating team on major rail and highways tenders for clients such as Network Rail, HS2 and Highways England. You’ll set standards, drive continuous improvement, and ensure robust, competitive estimates that align with bid strategies. You will balance resources, manage budgets, and collaborate with operations and project directors to support winning bids. This role offers a chance to shape tender strategy and implement standardized tools and processes within a high-profile construction environment.

Pay / Benefits

• excellent remuneration package
• salary negotiable depending on experience

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the estimating team and chair regular briefings
• Set department standards and drive continuous improvement
• Oversee and review all estimates for robustness and competitiveness
• Contribute to bid strategy and win themes
• Allocate resources and assist with recruitment
• Approve timesheets and expenses; manage department budget
• Collaborate with operations and project directors to support tenders
• Produce estimates during peak workload and develop department statistics
• Plan and standardise estimating tools and processes
• Support team development and training

Key requirements

• experience in civil rail projects
• basic understanding of highways works
• lead estimating or senior estimating experience
• line management or team leadership experience
• ability to liaise with senior stakeholders and drive tenders

• leadership
• team management
• communication
• stakeholder liaison
• problem solving

…