Senior Estimator
J3a Recruitment
Sheffield, GB
Senior Estimator (MEICA)\nLocation: West Yorkshire\nSalary: £75,000 - £85,000 + Car Allowance & Benefits\nContract Type: Full Time\nSector: Water Industry (AMP 8 Frameworks)\n\nThe Role:\nJ3A Recruitment is working with a leading player in the UK water sector to source an experienced Senior Estimator (MEICA). This is a pivotal role within the Pre-Construction Team, focused on supporting the AMP 8 Water Frameworks across clients such as Thames Water, Yorkshire Water, South West Water, and Severn Trent.\n\nYou ll be responsible for the preparation and submission of accurate, commercially viable MEICA tenders under various procurement models. This is a strategic position, offering the opportunity to shape the success of future projects across the UK s critical water infrastructure.\n\nKey Responsibilities:\n\n \n\n Review and analyse tender documentation, identifying risks and opportunities.\n\n \n\n Interpret client specifications and drawings for accurate subcontractor pricing.\n\n \n\n Develop initial P&IDs and SLDs for water and wastewater treatment works.\n\n \n\n Source and assess technical and commercial quotations for materials, subcontractors, and labour.\n\n \n\n Prepare robust MEICA cost estimates.\n\n \n\n Advise on resource needs for tenders and support programme development.\n\n \n\n Identify risks and prepare a tender risk register.\n\n \n\n Lead value engineering initiatives to drive cost-effective solutions.\n\n \n\n Work closely with engineering and commercial teams to ensure alignment.\n\n \n\n Present tenders to senior leadership, including commercial risk assessments.\n\n \n\n Support post-tender negotiations and attend client meetings.\n\nWhat We're Looking For:\n\n \n\n Degree-qualified in a MEICA-related discipline with 5-10+ years' estimating experience within the water industry.\n\n \n\n Membership of a relevant professional body (IMechE, IET, MICE or equivalent).\n\n \n\n Solid understanding of different procurement models and contracts (D&B, two-stage, frameworks, etc.).\n\n \n\n Ability to build estimates from first principles.\n\n \n\n Strong analytical and cost planning skills, with project exposure up to £30m.\n\n \n\n Proficient with Microsoft Office and familiar with estimating tools (e.g., Conquest).\n\n \n\n Strong supplier and subcontractor relationships.\n\nPersonal Attributes:\n\n \n\n Commercially astute with a strong technical foundation.\n\n \n\n Detail-oriented with an ability to meet tight deadlines.\n\n \n\n Effective communicator, capable of presenting at a senior level.\n\n \n\n Confident working both independently and as part of a team.\n\n \n\n Proactive and adaptable with a problem-solving mindset.\n\nWhat s On Offer:\n\n \n\n £75,000 - £85,000 base salary + bonus + Car allowance\n\n \n\n 26 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (plus option to buy/sell up to 3 days) + Additional long service holidays\n\n \n\n Private medical insurance (individual cover with option to add family) & Life assurance\n\n \n\n Up to 8% matched pension contribution\n\n \n\n Enhanced family leave\n\n \n\n 2 volunteering days per year & Hybrid/flexible working\n\n \n\n Professional membership fees paid, Access to a wide range of employee discounts and benefits