Estimator – Multi-utility / Civils

Role overview

IES Utilities Group Ltd is seeking an Estimator to support its multi-utility and civils estimating work. The position can be performed remotely or from the office in Manchester. The role sits within a business area focused on multi-utility delivery.

About the company

IES Utilities Group Ltd is a UK utility provider delivering end-to-end solutions across Power, Gas, Water, Telecoms, District Heating, and Renewables. The company offers survey, design, construction, and maintenance services across the country. With a focus on innovation, safety, and sustainability, it supports the development of resilient infrastructure networks and continues to expand as a trusted utilities partner.

The company’s vision is to be a leading utility and infrastructure services provider recognised for innovative, sustainable responses to present and future challenges. Its mission is to enable essential utility networks and infrastructure to achieve outstanding resilience and long-term value.

Purpose of the role

This position is intended to strengthen the estimating function on high-value and complex opportunities that are important to the business growth plan. Working in an organisation with annual turnover of up to £200m+, the Estimator will help ensure submissions are precise, competitive, and commercially sound for bids, acquisitions, and major strategic work.

Responsibilities

• Analyse client requirements by reviewing and assessing all relevant project documentation in detail.
• Build estimates from first principles, including labour, materials, subcontractor costs, and preliminary items.
• Develop cost models and cash flow forecasts.
• Work independently to meet demanding deadlines when required.
• Prepare fully priced risk registers.
• Apply strong commercial judgement and interpret contractual risk.
• Review contract documents and identify commercial exposures.
• Create financial models and cost breakdowns that support business cases.
• Present estimate proposals to senior management and directors in line with internal governance procedures.
• Issue enquiries and benchmark pricing while accounting for specified exclusions.
• Work alongside commercial and planning teams so estimates support high-quality bid submissions.
• Coordinate with operations to ensure all delivery requirements and associated costs are captured.
• Support pricing approaches for complex frameworks, joint ventures, and strategic projects.
• Provide estimating input during discussions and negotiations with clients, partners, and investors.
• Ensure estimates meet company standards, client expectations, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain governance records, audit trails, and benchmarking data to evidence estimating accuracy.
• Collaborate with divisional leaders, commercial teams, and technical specialists to test assumptions and confirm deliverability.
• Develop strong working relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and partners to obtain accurate pricing and market intelligence.

Requirements

• Significant estimating experience in utilities, infrastructure, or construction, preferably across several sectors such as power, water, gas, renewables, and telecoms.
• Multi-discipline experience is preferred.
• Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving ability, with careful attention to detail.
• Confident stakeholder management and communication skills, including experience working with executive and board-level audiences.

Success measures

• Delivery of accurate, competitive, and commercially robust estimates within the required timeframe.
• Positive feedback from managers, department heads, and directors.

How to apply

Interested candidates can submit an application and may also send a CV together with a cover letter.

Working arrangement

This role is remote, with the option to work from the office.

Additional information

Business area: Multi-utility. Headquarters: Manchester, England, United Kingdom. The role supports high-value opportunities within a business operating at up to £200m+ annual turnover.