Estimator

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to secure and develop a strong, profitable workstream for the business. The role has full responsibility for estimating processes, providing expert commercial insight, and adding value through innovative solutions, digital engineering, and technical expertise. You will interface confidently across the business and with external stakeholders to support successful work winning.
Key Responsibilities
Secure profitable opportunities by preparing high-quality, timely, and competitive bids aligned with LOR Group requirements
Lead the estimating function across bids, taking ownership of less complex tenders and supporting large or complex projects
Drive the value proposition across opportunities, including Self Delivery, Digital Engineering (DE), and DfMA initiatives
Utilise estimating software and Digital Engineering tools to promote efficiency and consistency
Apply lessons learned and feedback from live and recently completed projects
Promote innovation and competitiveness through engagement with Engineering Excellence
Engage collaboratively with Design, Commercial, Engineering, DE, Procurement, Planning, HS&E, and EnEx.G throughout the work-winning process
Key Deliverables & Accountabilities
Preparation of major prime cost estimates
Team leadership in prime cost evaluation
Commercial analysis of subcontractor quotations
Advice on risk, qualification, and margin finalisation
Ensure all bids are subject to formal adjudication
Successful post-tender negotiations
Ensure compliance with Executive Dashboards and EFA sheets for all bids
Provide estimating input into pre-bid submissions and PQQs
Liaise with clients and external consultants
Implement internal governance and core estimating processes
Provide general estimating support and guidance
Deliver structured training and development for assistant and trainee estimators
Provide constructive feedback to support team development
Technical Capabilities
Advanced
Procurement strategies and mechanisms
Package management and supply chain enquiry management
Expert
Pricing, cost planning, and net prime cost forecasting
Bid administration and management of the tendering process

Essential
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities
Ability to work independently, use initiative, and plan ahead
Strong organisational and time-management skills
Desired
Extensive experience using estimating software
Qualifications
Essential
HNC or cognate degree in Construction or Civil Engineering (or equivalent experience)
Desired
HNC / Degree in Construction or Civil Engineering
Progression towards professional membership (RICS, CIOB, ICE, IMechE)
Experience
Essential
Proven experience managing estimates from inception through submission, post-tender, award, and handover to delivery teams
Desired
Previous site-based experience in an Engineering or Commercial role
Experience leading estimating teams through the bid process
Personal Attributes
Commercially aware with a logical, well-organised approach
Able to manage workload against strict deadlines
Positive and resilient under pressure
Flexible, reliable, and geographically mobile to support tender workload
Committed to team motivation, engagement, and maintaining a positive working environment

Laing O'Rourke are an international engineering and construction company delivering state-of-the-art infrastructure and buildings projects for clients in the UK, Middle East and Australia.
Certainty, reliability, quality - this is what our clients want. And at Laing O'Rourke, we have more than 150 years of experience delivering it. Laing O'Rourke's story is one of energy, passion, ambition, people and teamwork. We harness the power of our experience, stretching back over a century and a half to deliver certainty for our clients.

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Our Benefits
Private medical insurance
Life assurance
Personal accident and injury insurance
Income protection
Pension - basic & enhanced
Annual leave
Discounts portal
Online doctor
Voluntary benefits
Work-life benefits
Employee assistance programme
Car/travel allowance Previous Next