Nexos Group
Lead Cost Estimator
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Job Purpose
The Lead Cost Estimator is responsible for leading the development of accurate and competitive cost estimates for all projects from concept through detailed design and execution phases. The role supports bid submissions, project controls, and strategic decision-making by providing robust estimating methodologies, cost benchmarking, risk assessment, and commercial insight across the group. The Lead Cost Estimator will further be responsible for ensuring consistency in process, software use, and management of the cost estimating service and resources across the group.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the preparation of all classes of estimates for engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and project management activities.
- Coordinate estimating inputs from engineering, procurement, construction, and supply chain teams.
- Evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations and incorporate into estimates.
- Prepare client-facing cost presentations and estimate clarifications.
- Review tender documents, specifications, drawings, and scope requirements to identify costing inputs.
- Develop project execution-based estimate structures and work breakdown structures (WBS).
- Produce Basis of Estimate (BoE) documentation with detailed assumptions, exclusions, qualifications, and cost narratives.
- Identify cost risks and opportunities throughout the estimating process.
- Develop contingency allowances and risk-adjusted estimates.
- Work with the Commercial function to prepare internal commercial top sheets detailing expected Gross Margin (GM) and Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) values.
- Develop and maintain estimating databases, historical cost records, productivity norms, and benchmarking data.
- Analyse market trends impacting labour, material, equipment costs.
- Perform estimate validation and benchmarking against previous projects and industry standards.
- Lead and mentor estimators and junior estimating personnel.
- Ensure consistency and compliance with company estimating procedures and governance requirements.
- Conduct estimate reviews, challenge sessions, and peer reviews.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the estimating function.
- Review and enhance estimating processes and procedures on an ongoing basis, identifying gaps and recommending improvements to ensure effectiveness and best practice.
- Provide estimating support during project execution, including change orders, variations, and claims.
- Assist project controls teams with budget development and cost forecasting.
- Act as the primary custodian for the ‘norms’ database, implementing updates as required.
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Skills & Qualifications
Essential:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Cost Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Experience of leading and developing a team.
- Cost estimation experience in a senior role.
- Proven experience leading estimates for large-scale engineering and construction projects.
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Desirable:
- Professional qualification or membership (e.g., RICS, AACE Certified Cost Professional (CCP)).
Key Competencies:
- Advanced cost estimating techniques and methodologies.
- Cost modelling and benchmarking.
- Quantity take-off development.
- Risk and contingency analysis.
- Tendering and bid management.
- Contract and commercial awareness.
- Project controls integration.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proactive stakeholder engagement and management.
- Business planning/commercial awareness.
- Excellent attention to detail, diligence, and self-discipline.
- Ability to work under pressure with changing priorities and meet deadlines.
Work Environment/Conditions
- Office-Based, will require travel to other Nexos Group locations.
- Full-Time: 37.5 hours per week.
Disclaimer
The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to provide an overview of the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this role. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. The role holder may be required to perform other duties as assigned, which are not listed here but are necessary to meet the business needs of the company.
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