Due to our continued work winning success, we currently have an opportunity for an experienced Estimator to join our office-based team in Borehamwood to support the pre-construction phase of projects by providing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates, ensuring projects are financially viable, competitive, and aligned with client expectations.

You will be working closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders. You will analyse bid specifications, drawings, and project documents to develop a thorough understanding of project requirements. This will involve conducting detailed quantity takeoffs from engineering drawings to determine the quantities of materials, labour, and equipment needed for each project and preparing estimates from first principles

Duties and Responsibilities

• Preparation of estimates from First Principles using Causeway Estimating software / and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Evaluate bid specifications, drawings, and other project documents to develop a comprehensive understanding of project requirements and identify potential risks or opportunities.
• Perform quantity takeoffs from architectural and engineering drawings to determine required quantities of materials, labour, and equipment.
• Collaborate with subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing for materials and services, ensuring cost-effective and timely delivery.
• Conduct cost analysis of alternative materials, methods, and design changes, providing recommendations to optimize project costs while maintaining quality standards.
• Identify potential risks and uncertainties associated with construction projects, propose mitigation strategies, and communicate findings to relevant parties.
• Prepare and maintain accurate documentation of estimating activities, including records of assumptions, methodologies, and pricing sources.
• Work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to clarify project requirements, resolve issues, and ensure alignment between estimated costs and project scope.

• Attend tender-stage site visits to gather additional information which may affect the bid and highlight any specific challenges to be overcome in order to provide a competitive offer.

Skills and Experience

• Degree or HND qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent work experience will also be considered.
• Demonstrable experience as an Estimator in the construction industry, with a strong background in estimating Power/ Electricals/Renewable projects being essential. Working knowledge of NEC3 / NEC4 / FIDIC contracts desirable.
• Proficiency in construction estimating software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and the ability to interpret complex project specifications and drawings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, fostering collaboration and building positive relationships with colleagues and project stakeholders.
• Driving License: Essential.

Company Information:

Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the fastest growing utility engineering contractors in the UK, with a long successful track record in delivering customer-focused civil engineering solutions.

Working directly with many of the country’s leading blue-chip power, water, telecoms, and rail clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team.

We pride ourselves on empowering our employees and offering opportunities for them to take control of their own personal development and career progression in a supportive environment.

We believe that being successful is a choice.

We choose to be successful.

We are OCU, ‘One Company United’.

We celebrate difference and appreciate diverse backgrounds. We encourage everyone who join us to be themselves at work and create inclusive teams in our workplace.