We are seeking an experienced Senior Cost Planner / Estimator (ideally from a main contractor background) for an initial 6-month contract. This role will lead the cost planning function across both 1st and 2nd stage tenders, playing a key part in bid strategy and project conversion.
Key Responsibilities
Bidding & Strategy
Lead the development of cost planning strategies, programmes, and resource requirements
Work collaboratively across disciplines (PM, Design, Commercial, Planning, Procurement, Legal, etc.) to ensure aligned input into bids
Drive transparent and commercially viable solutions aligned to project and client objectives
Ensure cost plans are compliant with brief, authority, and stakeholder requirements
Governance
Manage inputs into internal governance processes and review documentation
Ensure all cost plans are reviewed and endorsed prior to key gateways
Present cost plans at management and business unit reviews
Maintain robust internal processes with appropriate independent checks
Cost Planning
Produce and manage cost plans from early feasibility (RIBA 0/1) through to contract stage (RIBA 4)
Undertake quantification, pricing, and benchmarking across all project stages
Work with commercial teams to secure and analyse subcontractor pricing
Prepare and review preliminaries, incorporating programme, logistics, methodology, and phasing
Manage external consultants (e.g. BoQ providers), ensuring quality and programme adherence
Negotiate and assess subcontractor proposals
Design & Cost Control
Actively contribute to design development and value engineering processes
Ensure a strong "design to cost" approach, challenging solutions to meet budget targets
Monitor cost movement through design stages via a running change control process
Assess design options, risks, and opportunities, advising project teams accordingly
Support teams in managing variations and commercial risk
Risk & Opportunity Management
Identify and drive value engineering and cost optimisation opportunities
Assess and manage commercial risks, contingencies, and design impacts
Maintain awareness of market conditions and inflation, applying this to cost plans
Contribute to safe design and delivery processes, including risk reviews during pre-construction
Key Requirements
Proven experience as a Senior Cost Planner / Estimator within a main contractor environment
Strong experience across 1st and 2nd stage tenders
Ability to lead cost planning from feasibility through to contract award
Excellent understanding of construction methodologies, procurement, and commercial strategy
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
Experience managing design development, risk, and value engineering processesThis is an excellent opportunity to play a key role within a high-performing pre-construction team, contributing to the successful delivery of complex projects
Salary description
£400.00 - £500.00 per day