Your new company
A leading main contractor is seeking an experienced and commercially astute Senior Estimator to join its growing pre-construction team in Newry. This is a key position responsible for leading the estimating function on a wide range of construction projects, ensuring the preparation of accurate, competitive, and commercially viable tenders.
The successful candidate will play a strategic role in securing new business opportunities by managing the tender process from initial enquiry through to final submission, while collaborating closely with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and operational teams.
Your new role
The successful Senior Estimator will be instrumental in securing profitable new business for the business by delivering high-quality tender submissions, identifying commercial opportunities, managing project risk, and providing strong leadership within the pre-construction team.Tender and Estimating Management
- Lead the preparation and submission of competitive tenders for construction projects across various sectors.
- Review and analyse tender documentation, specifications, drawings, and contract requirements.
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, budgets, and pricing schedules.
- Develop comprehensive tender adjudication reports for senior management review.
- Ensure all tenders are submitted accurately and within prescribed deadlines.
Cost Planning and Commercial Assessment
- Produce accurate take-offs and cost plans.
- Identify project risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions.
- Review labour, plant, material, and subcontractor costs to ensure competitive pricing.
- Monitor market trends and supply chain developments to maintain pricing accuracy.
- Assess project viability and profitability prior to tender submission.
Supply Chain and Subcontractor Engagement
- Source and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key subcontractors and supply chain partners.
- Negotiate pricing and scope of works to achieve the best value.
- Ensure subcontractor packages are fully compliant with tender requirements.
Client Engagement
- Attend client interviews, tender presentations, and post-tender negotiations.
- Develop strong working relationships with clients, consultants, and design teams.
- Represent Cunningham Contracts professionally within the marketplace.
- Support the business development team in identifying and pursuing new opportunities.
Risk and Compliance
- Review contractual documentation and identify commercial risks.
- Ensure tenders comply with company governance and approval procedures.
- Support Health & Safety, Quality, and Environmental objectives during the tender phase.
- Maintain accurate documentation and audit trails throughout the estimating process.
What you’ll need to succeed
Essential Criteria
- Degree or HND qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Minimum 7 years’ experience in an estimating role within the construction industry.
- Proven track record of successfully delivering competitive tenders for main contractor projects.
- Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and procurement routes.
- Excellent commercial and contractual awareness.
- Advanced numerical and analytical skills.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating software.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience working within a main contracting environment across commercial, residential, education, healthcare, or public sector projects.
- Knowledge of Design & Build and Traditional forms of contract.
- Membership of CIOB, RICS, ICES, or a similar professional body.
- Experience leading and mentoring estimating teams.
- Familiarity with BIM and digital construction processes.
What you’ll get in return
On offer to the successful candidate is a competitive basic salary, car allowance, pension, and private healthcare. You will also have the opportunity to progress within the company structure.
What you need to do now
If you’re interested in this role, click ‘apply now’ to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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Skills:Estimator Estimating Pre-Construction Tendering Cost Management
Benefits:£Competitive
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