Hays
Estimator - Rail

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Your new company
You will be joining a principal and family-owned civil engineering contractor based in Birmingham operating within the rail industry. Working on major long-term programmes and framework agreements, this well-established and multi-accredited contractor plays a key role in enhancing critical infrastructure, supporting the delivery of large-scale rail, transport and urban connectivity improvements, delivering projects valued between £500k - £2m. They offer a strong pipeline of work for at least the next 6 years as well as excellent opportunities for career progression and professional development. As part of their continued growth, they are actively seeking an Estimator to join their team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly successful and growing principal contractor with a family-like feel.
This is a full-time permanent position based out of their Birmingham office with hybrid working.
Contracted hours: 40 hours per week, Mon - Fri
Your new role
As Estimator, you will prepare accurate and commercially competitive estimates while leading procurement activities for rail projects. Combining estimating, supply chain management and procurement strategy, you will ensure projects are priced competitively, aligned with programme requirements and positioned to deliver strong commercial performance.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Why you're a good match
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You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
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Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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Your responsibilities will include:
- Preparing detailed cost estimates, pricing schedules and tender submissions
- Reviewing drawings, specifications and tender documentation
- Developing cost plans covering labour, plant, materials and subcontract works
- Leading procurement strategies and sourcing materials, plant and subcontractors
- Obtaining and evaluating supplier quotations
- Negotiating commercial terms and managing supplier performance
- Aligning procurement activity with project programmes and delivery requirements
- Identifying value engineering opportunities
- Managing purchase orders, procurement tracking and reporting
- Supporting budgeting, cost control and change management
- Monitoring market pricing, supply chain risks and industry trends
What you'll need to succeed
In order to be successful, you must have:
- Previous estimating experience within the construction, infrastructure or rail sectors
- Understanding of cost planning, pricing and procurement processes
- Ability to manage supplier relationships and negotiate effective commercial terms
- Strong commercial awareness and analytical capability
- Full UK driving licence
What you'll get in return
In return, you will receive:
- Starting salary up to £65,000 per annum (negotiable depending on experience)
- Company car or car allowance (£5,700 per annum)
- 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays
- Contributory pension scheme
- Hybrid working (2 days' remote per week) and flexible working arrangements
- Life assurance
- Private medical cover
- Fuel card
- Health cash plan
- Sick pay
- Free car parking
- Funded professional membership (e.g. RICS, ICE or similar)
- Fully funded role-relevant training and professional development
- Long service awards
- Clear pathways for career progression
- Exposure to high-profile and rewarding projects
- Supportive and collaborative work environment
- Opportunity to grow and progress your career with an employee-first and family-owned principal contractor


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What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role and meet the criteria above, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Please note: applicants must hold existing UK work authorisation; visa sponsorship cannot be provided for this position.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
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