What will you do?

The Estimator will ensure ACS Construction Group secures profitable and sustainable work by producing accurate, competitive and commercially robust tenders across civil engineering, groundworks, commercial and infrastructure projects. Working closely with the Estimating Manager, Operational, Commercial and Delivery teams you will help identify opportunities, develop winning tender submissions and support the continued growth of the business.

Why is this role for you?

Unlike many estimating roles that involve high volumes of competitively tendered projects and a race to the lowest price, ACS operates a relationship-led business model. Most of our work is secured through long-term partnerships and repeat customers within specialist sectors where we have an established reputation and proven track record.

Our estimating approach is collaborative and focused on delivering value, buildability and programme certainty, rather than simply competing on price. Whilst competitive tenders form part of the role, opportunities are typically pursued against a select number of competitors rather than large-scale open market bids, allowing you to focus on quality submissions and strategic thinking.

You will be supported by an experienced and approachable team, including the Estimating Manager, fellow Estimators, Procurement Team and Senior Leadership Team, who will provide the guidance, resources and commercial insight needed to succeed and grow your career.

This is an opportunity to join a business with a strong repeat client base, a high-quality workload and a collaborative tendering environment where your expertise is valued. If you enjoy building relationships, developing innovative solutions and producing value-driven estimates, ACS offers the platform and support to help you thrive.

How will you demonstrate our values in the role?

Be innovative

• Identify and develop competitive tender solutions.
• Challenge conventional approaches and seek smarter ways of delivering projects.
• Contribute ideas that add value for clients and ACS.

Be driven

• Take ownership of tenders and deliver high-quality submissions within demanding timescales.
• Maintain high levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Be motivated to secure work and contribute to business growth.

Be experts

• Demonstrate strong estimating, commercial and construction knowledge.
• Understand civil engineering and groundworks construction methodologies.
• Apply technical expertise to produce accurate and reliable cost estimates.

Be collaborative

• Build strong working relationships with colleagues, clients, consultants and supply chain partners.
• Work closely with planners, operational teams and commercial managers throughout the tender process.
• Support a positive and team-focused culture across the business.

What you will be responsible for?

• Preparing accurate cost estimates, cost plans and tender submissions for projects ranging from £50k to £50m.
• Reviewing tender documentation, undertaking quantity take-offs and managing subcontractor and supplier enquiries.
• Supporting pre- and post-tender negotiations with clients and key stakeholders.
• Conducting site visits and working with operational teams to develop practical and competitive tender solutions.
• Managing estimating systems, maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with company procedures and management systems.
• Experience within the energy sector (National Grid projects, substations, grid stabilisation) would be advantageous.

What must you have? (Job Skills, Experience, Qualifications)

• Extensive experience in an estimating role within the construction industry.
• Proven experience estimating civil engineering, groundworks and Commercial projects.
• Experience of preparing detailed cost estimates and competitive tender submissions.
• Experience of pre- and post-tender negotiations.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, contracts and resource requirements.
• Proficiency in digital take-off and estimating software.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel, Word and Microsoft 365 skills.
• ONC/HNC/HND, Degree or equivalent qualification in Construction, Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
• Excellent communication, organisational and stakeholder management skills

Extra things we would like you to have

• Experience estimating projects within the energy sector, including substations and utility infrastructure, a knowledge of commercial projects would also be beneficial.
• Experience using estimating software ACS use Evaluate Estimating (not essential as training can be provided).
• Knowledge of Eque2 software.
• Existing CSCS accreditation. (Not essential as training can be provided).
• Experience producing contractor proposals and value-engineered solutions.

Safety Details

ACS is committed to maintaining the highest standards of health, safety and wellbeing. The successful candidate will be expected to comply with all company health and safety policies, procedures and safe systems of work. Training will be provided to obtain CSCS accreditation where required to support site visits and project activities.

Working Environment

This role is based at our Cheadle office with regular travel to client sites, project locations and supplier premises as required. The position involves close collaboration with commercial, operational and support teams and offers the opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of civil engineering, infrastructure and groundworks projects across the UK. ACS provides a professional, supportive and collaborative environment focused on development, innovation and continuous improvement.

What’s in it for you?

• Wellbeing support
• Pension scheme and life assurance
• Paid company social events
• Health Shield Level 2 plan for all employees
• A true “family feel” working environment where YOU matter
• One community day a year to do support a charity close to your heart
• Opportunity for progression to a Senior Estimator role