Job Role
Ringway is seeking an experienced Target Cost Estimator to join our Commercial Management team on a term maintenance highways contract. This is a senior specialist role, responsible for preparing robust target cost estimates and managing monthly valuations under NEC3/NEC4 target-cost arrangements, ensuring accuracy, transparency and value for money.
Reporting to the Commercial Manager, you will play a key role in protecting Ringway’s commercial position while fostering a collaborative, open-book approach with the Client and delivery teams.
Duties
- Prepare detailed target cost estimates using Schedules of Rates and agreed pricing mechanisms, covering labour, plant, materials, subcontractors, overheads and risk.
- Price and submit Early Warnings and Compensation Events, working closely with Quantity Surveyors to protect contractual entitlement.
- Prepare and submit monthly applications for payment, ensuring 100% of completed work value is captured with full supporting evidence.
- Record and manage costs within systems such as Causeway CPA, SAP and Confirm, maintaining real-time visibility of actual versus target cost.
- Monitor variances and escalate risks early, supporting proactive commercial decision-making.
- Manage and verify subcontractor costs and payments, ensuring accuracy and alignment with project budgets.
- Work collaboratively with operational teams to clarify scopes and improve estimate accuracy.
- Communicate openly and professionally with the Client’s commercial representatives.
- Mentor junior commercial team members and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Person Specification
- Strong numerical, analytical and organisational skills
- NEC3/NEC4 (Option C) contract experience
- Advanced Excel and cost-management system capability
- Strong experience in a commercial/estimating role within highways or civil engineering
- HNC / HND / Degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management (or equivalent experience)
- Experience with Causeway CPA, SAP and Confirm preferred
