Job Description:

Target Cost Estimator

Location: Milton Keynes, MK6 1LY

Permanent, Full Time

Our client, Ringway, a trusted provider of highways services to the public sector, 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.

The Role

You will lead the preparation of detailed target prices for highways maintenance works, ensuring all costs are accurately built up, clearly evidenced, and agreed prior to delivery. Alongside this, you will manage monthly applications for payment, cost recording and variance analysis, and support the commercial team in administering Early Warnings and Compensation Events.

This role sits at the heart of the contract’s financial performance, combining strong analytical capability, NEC contract knowledge and close collaboration with operational and client stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills & Competencies

• 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