The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Senior Estimator / Cost Planner to support a major rail infrastructure programme based in Leeds.

This is a hands-on, technically focused estimating role working within a live rail delivery environment. The primary focus is the development of robust bottom-up estimates from first principles, supporting major infrastructure work packages under an NEC contract framework.

You will play a key role in shaping commercial outcomes by producing detailed, defensible cost build-ups that directly inform project delivery, pricing strategy and investment decisions.

This is an opportunity for someone who wants to be close to major rail delivery — working at the centre of a high-value, complex infrastructure programme.

About CPC Project Services

Small enough to deliver, big enough to care

At CPC Project Services, we’re an award-winning, independent Project Management and Cost Consultancy with over 36 years’ experience delivering high-quality infrastructure, property and transformational change projects across the UK.

We became employee-owned in 2024, placing our people firmly at the heart of the business. That means a culture built on ownership, pride, and genuine influence, where you are empowered to shape both the work you deliver and the direction of the company.

We are currently on a clear growth journey towards £100m turnover by 2033, making this a genuinely exciting time to join our expanding Commercial Services team.

Our Commercial Services function works across a diverse portfolio of flagship programmes in Rail, Aviation, Highways and Local Authority sectors, giving you exposure to some of the most high-profile and technically complex infrastructure projects in the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed bottom-up cost estimates for rail infrastructure work packages using first principles
• Review and interpret drawings, specifications, scope documents and programme information to produce robust cost build-ups
• Develop labour, plant, materials and subcontract pricing models
• Support pricing strategy and commercial decision-making within an NEC contract environment
• Prepare and review cost estimates for major change events and compensation events
• Challenge contractor estimates and provide independent cost validation and assurance
• Support risk, value engineering and change management processes from an estimating perspective
• Contribute to benchmarking, cost intelligence and estimating standards across the programme
• Work closely with commercial, engineering and delivery teams to ensure alignment between scope, methodology and cost
• Support forecasting cycles and ongoing cost assurance activities

About You

We are looking for a strong infrastructure estimator with proven experience producing detailed, bottom-up cost estimates in complex delivery environments.

Experience

• Proven experience as an Estimator, Senior Estimator or Lead Estimator within rail, civils or major infrastructure projects
• Strong background in bottom-up estimating from first principles
• Experience producing detailed cost build-ups (labour, plant, materials, subcontract)
• Strong understanding of estimating methodologies and pricing strategy
• Good working knowledge of NEC contracts and change mechanisms
• Ability to review technical documentation and translate into robust cost estimates
• Strong analytical, numerical and commercial skills
• Confident engaging with engineers, commercial teams and delivery stakeholders

Location & Working Pattern

• Based in Leeds (short walk from the station)
• Hybrid working: 3 days per week in the office (Tuesday–Thursday)
• Collaborative, programme-led environment with long-term project stability

Why CPC?

At CPC Project Services, we offer more than just a competitive salary — we provide a benefits package that supports you both at work and beyond, including:

• Private healthcare for you and your family (including dental and optical)
• Private pension scheme
• Hybrid and flexible working
• Travel insurance (including winter sports) for you, your partner and dependants
• Support with professional memberships and ongoing training

We also believe great work deserves recognition, with a personal performance bonus and annual salary reviews.

Diversity & Inclusion

CPC is an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to providing an inclusive environment for professional growth and development.

Next Steps

If you’re an experienced estimator looking to work on major rail infrastructure programmes where your work directly influences delivery outcomes, we’d love to hear from you.

Please apply with your CV or contact us for a confidential discussion.