Senior Estimator

Naughton Contracts Limited (NCL)
Senior Estimator
Location: Office Based (Hatfield, Hertfordshire)
Naughton Contracts Ltd is a young, ambitious civil engineering company delivering groundworks, earthworks, basements, site set-up and enabling, and civil engineering solutions across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Including major data centre developments. We're looking for a Senior Estimator to join our team at our Hatfield head office and play a key role in winning and pricing the projects that keep us growing.
About the Role
As Senior Estimator, you'll be responsible for producing accurate, competitive tenders and estimates across our core service areas. Groundworks, earthworks, basements, site set-up and enabling, and civil engineering. Supporting the commercial team in securing new work and maintaining Naughton's reputation for quality, reliability, and value.
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare accurate, well-substantiated cost estimates and tenders for groundworks, earthworks, basements, civil engineering, and site set-up/enabling projects.
* Analyse tender documents, drawings, and specifications to identify scope, risk, and opportunity.
* Source and evaluate quotations from subcontractors and suppliers to build competitive pricing.
* Prepare and present bid submissions, method statements, and pricing schedules to clients.
* Liaise with clients, designers, and internal project teams throughout the tender process.
* Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving measures without compromising quality or safety.
* Support the commercial team with post-tender negotiations and handover to delivery teams.
* Maintain accurate records of historical pricing data, productivity rates, and market trends.
* Mentor and support junior estimators within the team.
Experience
* Proven experience as an Estimator or Senior Estimator within civil engineering, groundworks, or construction.
* Track record of successfully tendering for projects across residential, commercial, or infrastructure sectors.
* Experience estimating for data centre or industrial projects is an advantage.
Knowledge
* Strong understanding of civil engineering, groundworks, and RC frame construction methods and costs.
* Familiarity with construction contracts (e.g. JCT, NEC) and tender processes.
* Sound knowledge of current market rates, materials, plant, and labour costs.
* Awareness of UK health & safety and regulatory requirements as they relate to estimating and project delivery.
Qualifications
* Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
* Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. CIOB, RICS) is desirable but not essential.
* Valid CSCS card.
Skills
* Strong numerical and analytical skills, with high attention to detail and accuracy.
* Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present pricing clearly to clients and internal stakeholders.
* Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tenders and deadlines simultaneously.
* Commercially astute, with sound negotiation skills and a proactive, problem-solving approach.
Why Work for Us
* Join a young, ambitious, and fast-growing civil engineering company delivering complex projects across the UK and Europe.
* Be part of a business known for hitting deadlines, staying on budget, and delivering to the highest industry standards.
* Work on exciting, high-profile projects including advanced manufacturing and data centre developments.
* A professional, hands-on team environment where your contribution is valued and your development supported.
* Genuine opportunity to grow with the company as it establishes itself as a leading player in the industry.
If you have the skills and experience to excel in this role, we would love to hear from you.
Naughton Contracts is an Equal Opportunities employer and does not discriminate against any protected characteristic.
Note for Recruitment Agencies: We are not using Recruitment Agencies for this role. In the event of speculative CV submissions, no fees will be applicable