Civil Estimator (Freelance - Inside IR35)
Location: Falmer, Near Brighton
Overview:
A multi-disciplinary joint venture is delivering a significant Design & Build Framework within the water sector. The programme includes a wide range of upgrade and improvement works to drinking water and wastewater treatment plants and pumping stations, with individual project values ranging from -250K to -20M.
Role Summary:
As a freelance Civil Estimator, you will focus primarily on the civil elements of tendering activities. This includes producing budget estimates at early stages, supporting target price setting, and working collaboratively across multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced, framework-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities:

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  Develop civil budget estimates during the optioneering stage to support contract award decisions
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  Appraise civil engineering solutions, ensuring compliance with the project brief and client specifications
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  Produce activity schedules or BOQs aligned with the client''s cost capture system
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  Integrate health, safety, and environmental considerations within the estimates
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  Conduct site visits across the South East as required
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  Liaise with M&E estimators to integrate temporary treatment processes into the estimate
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  Obtain and technically/commercially evaluate subcontractor, plant, material, and labour quotations
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  Build bottom-up estimates using first principles and agreed standard rates
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  Interpret construction programmes and develop basic critical path schedules to inform cost and delivery
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  Estimate indirect costs such as staffing, site establishment, and welfare
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  Support the Estimating Manager during internal governance and reviews
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  Identify and record project risks and opportunities during estimate development
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  Attend tender settlement meetings and post-tender commercial discussions with clients
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  Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance estimating processes and efficiency

Essential Skills & Experience:

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  Strong understanding of civil construction (e.g., earthworks, RC structures, roads, tanks, pipework, ductwork, and temporary works)
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  Qualification in Civil Engineering or relevant discipline
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  Ability to manage multiple concurrent bids and meet tight deadlines
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  Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
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  Demonstrated experience in producing bottom-up estimates

Desirable:

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  Experience in the water or utilities sector
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  Understanding of sewage and water treatment processes and associated mechanical systems
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  Previous experience working in multi-disciplinary engineering teams
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  CSCS card holder (current and relevant)