Job Description

Senior Estimator (Steel)
Location: Laois
Salary: c.€85,000 - €100,000+ (DOE)
Career Development: Opportunity to move into the Senior Leadership Team within the company in time. 

About the Role

A leading company in the construction industry is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to join their team. Based in Portlaoise, this role offers the chance to work with one of Ireland’s most respected businesses in the steel and rebar sector, renowned for their contributions to high-end mega projects and partnerships with top contractors and private developers across Ireland.

Due to consistent expansion, the company is transitioning the responsibility of the estimating department, previously managed by the MD and senior leadership team, to a dedicated estimator. This is a fantastic opportunity for a highly skilled professional in the Irish construction industry to take on a key leadership role. This is an in-office position with occasional site visits to gain a deeper understanding of the business, though travel will not be overly frequent.

This Estimator role involves preparing accurate cost estimates, analysing tender documentation, and ensuring timely, high-quality tender submissions. The successful candidate will also enhance estimation policies and procedures, ensuring integration with finance and technical systems while maximizing profitability and client satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate and competitive estimates for a range of high-profile construction projects, ensuring alignment with client requirements and company standards.
• Conduct detailed analysis of project specifications, drawings, and other documentation to
  prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Analyse project documentation, including drawings and specifications, to determine project scope and costs.
• Work closely with the commercial and operations teams to deliver cost-effective proposals.
• Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain accurate quotations and manage procurement processes effectively.
• Evaluate project risks and propose mitigation strategies to ensure profitability and timely delivery.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of market trends, material costs, and industry standards.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in estimating or quantity surveying in the Irish or UK construction industry, ideally with experience in steel or rebar.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; no need for additional software expertise at this stage.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills with a proven ability to collaborate across teams.
• A detail-oriented, proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Full eligibility to work in Ireland.

Salary 

• Competitive salary tailored to experience (€75,000–€90,000+, with flexibility for the right candidate).
• Opportunity to take the lead in a growing department with significant autonomy and influence.
• A chance to work with a dynamic and forward-thinking team contributing to Ireland’s most significant construction projects.
• Career progression opportunities as the company continues to expand.

For a confidential discussion on this or any other current opportunity, please contact Shane Fleming on 083 0885073 or email Shane@optimizerecruitment.ie with the vacancy reference number OR-14278.

Note: All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence, and no CVs will be shared without prior approval.