Cost Estimator

Overview

As an estimator at Gardiner & Theobald, you support pre-contract activities, develop budgets, and deliver cost plans for diverse water sector and utilities projects. You’ll work within a dedicated cost estimating team, reporting to senior leadership, and help grow the business through stakeholder collaboration and talent development. The role combines analytical cost control with client-focused service, offering exposure to high-profile projects and firm-wide initiatives. You will contribute to shaping financial strategy and risk management to ensure projects stay within budget while supporting career growth.

Pay / Benefits

• career development programmes
• training support for professional qualifications
• equity partner-led mentorship
• focus on lifelong learning
• ESG and sustainability initiatives
• net zero by 2030 target

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage project budgets within financial parameters
• Monitor costs and report budget variances with timely financial information
• Oversee changes, risk registers, and contingency with project team
• Produce accurate cost estimates, including measurement and rate determination
• Prepare and deliver cost plans and utilize specialist estimation methods
• Analyze design changes for cost impact and suggest alternatives
• Conduct market testing with subcontractors and suppliers
• Identify and mitigate project risks and provide proactive risk guidance
• Lead and mentor junior staff (level dependent)
• Participate in firm-wide initiatives and business growth activities

Key requirements

• Degree-qualified (not essential)
• CaSA or MRICS not essential
• Precontract experience
• Experience with NEC or similar contracts preferred
• Consultancy, client, or contractor environment desirable
• Own initiative and strategic thinking
• Strong client service commitment
• Good analytical, reporting, and presentation skills
• Estimating software experience not essential
• Leadership skills for junior members (level dependent)
• Excellent communication and coordination with internal and external teams

• client-facing
• analytical thinking
• team leadership
• cost planning
• cost estimating
• benchmarking

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