Lead Estimator

Role overview

The Lead Estimator will be responsible for shaping the commercial side of tenders from the outset. This includes reviewing bid documents, building a strong and competitive strategy, and submitting a compliant proposal to management for tender settlement decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Apply the company’s tendering standards and procedures consistently throughout the bid process.
• Coordinate with external consultants and other third parties as needed.
• Carry out the first review of tender documents and define the bid approach at an early stage.
• Attend site inspections and support the Bid Lead Technical in identifying construction constraints, opportunities, programme impacts, and pricing considerations.
• Check BOQ items against the bill descriptions, drawings, and specifications, and raise queries with the client or engineer when discrepancies are found.
• Highlight BOQ, specification, and drawing items that do not align with the company’s or industry’s current construction methods or standards and may affect cost.
• Identify missing scope items that are required by drawings, specifications, or statutory obligations but are not included in the tender BOQ, and seek clarification from the client or engineer.
• Review the master technical queries prepared by the Technical Coordinator.
• Build the direct cost estimate and ensure it is sound based on the proposed methodology and programme.
• Prepare the General Requirements (GE Book) using input from the Technical and Planning teams.
• Coordinate with the Planning team to reconcile required resources.
• Work with procurement teams on suppliers and subcontractors, including clarifications and exclusions for vendors.
• Develop value engineering ideas and recommend alternatives based on cost, quality, and long-lead considerations.
• Prepare benchmarking studies and compare cost plans.
• Identify project risks, qualifications, and mitigation actions where necessary.
• Ensure bids go through proper review and adjudication.
• Support successful negotiations after tender submission.
• Act as Bid Lead when required, including guiding and overseeing team members.
• Assist the Estimating Manager in improving and maintaining the estimating process.
• Provide general support material and information to other estimators.

Required skills and attributes

• Strong empathy and teamwork mindset.
• Highly organised with the ability to prioritise effectively.
• Strong numerical accuracy and attention to detail.
• Comfortable using CCS Candy, MS Office, AutoCAD, and PowerPoint.
• Confident written and verbal presentation ability.
• Able to work well under pressure and maintain performance.
• Technically strong in estimating practices and tender processes.
• Capable of motivating others and taking on challenging tasks.
• Collaborative approach to working with cross-functional teams.

Additional information

This is a full-time, onsite role based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. No salary, opening count, start date, or duration details were provided.