Estimating Manager – Steel Structures / Structural Engineering

Company Overview

We are a specialist engineering and fabrication business delivering steel structures and structural engineering solutions across a range of sectors, including industrial, commercial, infrastructure, and bespoke projects. Due to continued growth, we are seeking an experienced Estimating Manager to lead and develop our estimating function.

Role Overview

The Estimating Manager will be responsible for leading all estimating activities for steel and structural engineering projects, from initial enquiry through to tender submission. This is a hands-on role requiring strong technical understanding of steel structures, fabrication, and erection, alongside commercial and team leadership capability.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the estimating function for structural steel and steel fabrication projects

Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates for structural steelwork, including materials, fabrication, painting, erection, and subcontract services

Review drawings, specifications, and tender documentation to determine scope and risks

Liaise with clients, consultants, and internal teams to clarify requirements and assumptions

Develop and manage bills of quantities and pricing breakdowns

Identify value engineering opportunities and cost efficiencies

Manage tender submissions, clarifications, and negotiations

Support project handover to delivery and commercial teams

Maintain and improve estimating processes, pricing databases, and supplier relationships

Key Requirements

Proven experience as an Estimator or Estimating Manager within structural steel or structural engineering

Strong understanding of:

Structural steelwork and fabrication processes

Drawings, specifications, and engineering standards

Materials, tolerances, coatings, and erection methodologies

Experience pricing projects from concept through to detailed design

Commercially astute with strong negotiation skills

Confident working with clients, engineers, and fabricators

Proficient in estimating and take-off software and Excel

Desirable Experience

Chartered or degree-qualified in Civil, Structural, or Mechanical Engineering

Experience managing or mentoring junior estimators

Knowledge of UK construction standards and regulations

Experience working on large or complex steel structures

Personal Attributes

Strong leadership and organisational skills

Detail-focused with a strategic mindset

Ability to manage multiple tenders and deadlines

Proactive, hands-on, and commercially driven

BSc/HNC in Building Studies or similar

· Chartership to MCIOB or RICS would be advantageous but not a necessity

· Building construction knowledge.

· Good level of structural and civil engineering knowledge.

· Steelwork design experience would be advantageous but not a necessity.

· Accurate interpretation of drawings and technical specifications.

· Can demonstrate experience in pricing of projects from 50 – 3,000 tonnes.

· Be able to budget a job on demand (using experience).

· Plan, control and report on enquiries.

· Previous experience of dealing with contractors, engineers, architects and who they

Package

Competitive salary, dependent on experience

Company pension

Career progression within a growing structural engineering business