Rail Cost Estimator

Role overview

Our client is looking for an experienced Rail Cost Estimator to strengthen its Rail team in Dublin. This position offers the chance to support major rail and transport infrastructure programmes in Ireland, contributing to projects that will influence the future of public transportation. The environment is collaborative, progressive, and focused on professional growth.

What makes this opportunity attractive

• Attractive pay and a full benefits package
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options
• Strong support for career growth and ongoing professional development
• Opportunity to contribute to large-scale rail infrastructure schemes
• Inclusive, team-oriented workplace culture
• Exposure to technically complex and challenging assignments

What the job involves

You will be responsible for producing reliable, clear, and compliant cost estimates throughout the full lifecycle of rail infrastructure work, starting at feasibility and option selection and continuing through to delivery. In this role, you will work closely with engineering, commercial, and project stakeholders to support decisions on strategy, procurement, and delivery under NEC4 contractual frameworks.

Core duties

• Build and refine cost estimates for rail projects across all phases
• Ensure estimates align with NEC4 contract obligations
• Use Rail Method of Measurement (RMM) and CESMM approaches in estimate preparation
• Assist with target pricing, benchmarking, and cost assurance tasks
• Work with cross-functional teams to test scope, risks, and assumptions
• Support procurement activity, tender assessments, and compensation event pricing
• Maintain estimate files, reporting outputs, and governance standards
• Spot cost risks and opportunities and help develop mitigation actions

About you

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Commercial Management, or a closely related subject, along with solid experience in cost estimating within the rail or transportation sector. Familiarity with NEC4 contracts, especially in target cost and change-managed settings, is important. Practical use of Rail Method of Measurement (RMM) for cost build-ups is required, as is experience with CESMM or comparable measurement systems. Previous involvement in Irish or UK rail infrastructure projects and progress toward professional chartership would be an advantage.

Additional information

This opportunity is suited to someone who wants to help deliver transformative rail projects while continuing to develop a commercial and estimating career.