Senior Estimator

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’. Role Overview As a Senior Estimator, you will be responsible for leading the estimation and costing process for construction projects within the organisation. You will utilise your expertise in quantity surveying, cost analysis, and project management to accurately assess project requirements, prepare detailed cost estimates, and support the tendering and bidding process. Requirement is to estimate the following works on an EHV DNO framework contract. Duties and Responsibilities Project Assessment Review project documentation, including drawings, specifications, and scope of work, to understand project requirements, constraints, and deliverables. Conduct site visits and assessments, liaise with clients and stakeholders, and gather relevant information to inform the estimation process. Cost Estimation Prepare accurate and detailed cost estimates for construction projects, including materials, labour, equipment, subcontractor services, and overhead costs. Utilise estimating software, historical data, industry benchmarks, and market rates to develop comprehensive cost models and pricing proposals. Quantity Take off Perform quantity take off and measurement of materials, components, and work activities based on project specifications and drawings. Calculate quantities, volumes, and dimensions of construction elements, and apply unit rates and pricing to determine material and labour costs. Cost Analysis and Pricing Strategy Analyse cost data, identify cost drivers and variances, and assess the impact of design changes, value engineering proposals, and project risks on project costs. Develop pricing strategies, markups, and margins based on project requirements, market conditions, and competitive factors to maximise profitability and win rates. Tender Preparation and Submissions Prepare tender documents, including bills of quantities, pricing schedules, and technical proposals, in accordance with client requirements and tender specifications. Coordinate with internal stakeholders, subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants to obtain pricing, quotations, and technical submissions for inclusion in tender bids. Bid Management and Negotiation Manage the tendering process, including bid submissions, clarifications, and negotiations with clients, subcontractors and suppliers to secure contracts and favourable terms. Collaborate with business development teams, project managers, and senior management to develop winning bid strategies and proposals. Risk Assessment and Mitigation Identify potential risks, uncertainties, and contingencies associated with project estimates and bids, and develop risk mitigation strategies to minimise exposure and ensure project viability. Conduct sensitivity analysis, scenario modelling, and cost‑benefit analysis to assess the financial implications of risk factors and decision alternatives. Skills and Experience Proven experience as an estimator or quantity surveyor in the construction industry, with a track record of successfully estimating and bidding on construction projects ICP or DNO Framework132 / 66 / 33kV substation projects from a turnkey design, civil and electrical perspective. ICP / DNO Framework 132 / 66 / 33kV cable route pricing knowledge from a design / civil / electrical perspective is desirable. Strong technical knowledge of construction methods, materials, and techniques, with expertise in quantity surveying, cost analysis, and contract pricing. First principles electrical knowledge, and detailed civil knowledge of 132 / 66 / 33kV substation builds in terms of outline designs, material specification, installation timescales, activity sequencing, and identifying risk. Ability to produce a detailed design and construction programme in MS Project. Reviewing and assisting with production of design and construction risk registers. Excellent analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret technical drawings, perform quantity take off, and analyse cost data to develop cost models and pricing proposals. Effective communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to liaise with clients, subcontractors, and stakeholders to obtain pricing, negotiate terms and secure contracts. Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritise tasks and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. Relevant degree or professional qualification in quantity surveying, construction management, or a related field is desirable. Driven by values, powered by inclusion. At OCU, our values guide everything we do : integrity, collaboration, respect, innovation and one company united. They shape how we work with our clients, communities, and each other. We believe that inclusion is more than a principle — it’s the foundation of our success. By embracing equity and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive, we create a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone feels they belong. Together, we build stronger teams, deliver better outcomes, and grow in ways that reflect the communities we serve. If you want to be part of a culture where values matter and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do apply now and help us shape the future together. If you are invited to progress in the recruitment process, will you require any reasonable adjustments to support you? Please let us know so we can ensure the process is accessible and fair for you. Any information you share will be treated confidentially and will only be used to support you during the recruitment process. #J-18808-Ljbffr