Sanderson
Senior Estimator Defence

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Senior Estimator - Defence
Bristol (Hybrid Working - 2-3 Days On Site Per Week)
£40,000 - £70,000 + 4k Car Allowance + Benefits
Are you an experienced Estimator with a background in the Defence sector? Do you have expertise in developing complex cost estimates and supporting major infrastructure or programme delivery projects?
Outsource UK is recruiting on behalf of a leading consultancy supporting critical Defence programmes across the UK.
This is an excellent opportunity to work on nationally significant programmes while benefiting from flexible hybrid working and strong career development opportunities.
The Role
As a Senior Estimator, you will play a key role in the development, assurance and delivery of robust cost estimates that support strategic project and programme decision-making.
You will contribute across a variety of estimating activities including:
Reasons to use Rodeo
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?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
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.
Experience fit
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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No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
- Producing estimates and cost models from early stage order-of-magnitude assessments through to detailed estimates
- Delivering estimating assurance activities
- Supporting major programme estimating strategies
- Analysing commercial data and benchmarking information
- Providing expert estimating support to Defence sector clients
Key Responsibilities
- Lead or support the production of accurate and comprehensive project and programme estimates
- Develop and maintain complex cost models
- Work collaboratively within integrated Project Controls teams
- Support business development and bid opportunities
- Promote estimating best practice and continuous improvement
- Mentor and support junior team members
- Contribute to the growth and development of Defence estimating capability
- Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders
- Stay current with industry trends, tools and best practice methodologies


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Essential Experience & Qualifications
- Qualification in Estimating, Quantity Surveying, Cost Engineering or a related discipline
- Proven experience working within the Defence sector
- Strong experience producing, assuring and delivering complex estimates and cost models
- Experience working in integrated Project Controls environments
- Experience supporting public sector projects or programmes
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Experience working in client-facing environments
If you're an experienced Defence Estimator looking for your next challenge in Bristol, we'd love to hear from you.
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