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Korn Ferry

Estimator (Construction - Civil & Infrastructure)

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  • Posted a month ago
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Job Description

Building the Future With Precision

This organization is a newly established contracting business headquartered in Abu Dhabi, created as part of a respected regional real estate and housing development group known for delivering highquality, largescale projects across the region. While the company operates with the agility and entrepreneurial mindset of a start-up, it benefits from the financial strength, governance standards, and project delivery expertise of its parent group.

With a clear focus on civil and infrastructure development across the UAE, the company is building its core technical and commercial teams to support ambitious growth plans. The environment offers the structure and discipline of a mature group, combined with the opportunity to shape processes, culture, and operational excellence from the ground up.

About the Company

You will be joining an ambitious start-up subsidiary of a well-established development and contracting group in the UAE. Operating independently yet backed by a trusted parent organization, the company delivers high-impact civil and infrastructure projects across Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

This is an opportunity to contribute directly to major tenders and commercial decisions that shape project success. Your expertise will play a crucial role in building strong estimation processes and supporting the company's long-term growth and competitiveness.

About the Role

This is a key technical and commercial position within a fast-growing contracting organization. As Estimator, you will take ownership of preparing precise, competitive, and well-documented cost estimates that support the company's tendering strategy and future projects.

You will analyze drawings, specifications, and market data to ensure accuracy, alignment with industry benchmarks, and commercial viability. Operating in a project-driven environment, you will combine technical understanding with market awareness, value engineering, and sound judgment to support successful bid outcomes.

A Day in the Life

Your day begins with reviewing incoming tenders, clarifying technical requirements, and assessing project scope. You collaborate closely with engineering, procurement, and planning teams to gather accurate cost inputs and validate assumptions.

Throughout the day, you analyze drawings, prepare BOQ breakdowns, and develop pricing strategies that balance competitiveness and profitability. You engage vendors to verify rates, evaluate risks, and identify cost-saving opportunities. Your work culminates in preparing detailed submissions, cash flow forecasts, and comprehensive tender documents.

Your contribution directly influences project awards and overall commercial success.

Key Responsibilities

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

  • Preparing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for civil, fit-out, and multi-disciplinary construction projects.
  • Analyzing drawings, specifications, and BOQs to determine material, labor, and equipment requirements.
  • Developing competitive tender submissions aligned with company targets and market positioning.
  • Coordinating with procurement, engineering, and planning teams to ensure realistic and optimized cost inputs.
  • Implementing digital estimation tools, cost databases, and structured workflows.
  • Conducting risk assessments and identifying value-engineering alternatives and cost-saving opportunities.
  • Ensuring compliance with internal governance, contractual obligations, and UAE tendering regulations.
  • Preparing detailed cost breakdowns, unit rate analyses, and cash flow forecasts.
  • Monitoring market trends, vendor pricing, and labor rates to maintain competitive advantage.

What You Bring

We are looking for a detail-oriented, commercially aware Estimator with strong technical expertise and a deep understanding of UAE construction markets.

You bring:

  • A bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Quantity Surveying.
  • 10+ years of estimation experience with contracting companies, ideally in civil and infrastructure works.
  • Strong knowledge of UAE market rates, material specifications, and labor productivity norms.
  • Proficiency with estimation software and advanced MS Excel skills.
  • Hands-on experience preparing tenders for large-scale projects.
  • Strong analytical, numerical, and negotiation skills.
  • Knowledge of UAE construction regulations and local authority requirements (mandatory).
  • Ability to read and interpret drawings and technical documents.
  • Experience in value engineering and cost optimization strategies.
  • Professional certifications such as MRICS are an advantage.

What's In It for You

This role offers the chance to influence commercial outcomes and help shape the company's estimating function from its early stages. You will work closely with senior leadership, play a pivotal role in securing major projects, and contribute to the company's growth and market positioning.

For the right individual, this is an opportunity to join a stable, well-backed organization that combines the entrepreneurial energy of a start-up with the credibility of an established regional group.

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About Company

Job ID: 142668643