Bid Co-ordinator

Quantity Surveyor

Estimator

Site Engineer

Project Manager

Design Manager

Senior Quantity Surveyor

Project Manager

Proposals Manager x2

Beaconsfield – Hybrid (1-2 days in the office per week)
£60k – £70k + Package
Permanent Role

About the Company

Our client is the UK’s leading highways maintenance contractor, responsible for:
✔️ Over 24,000 miles of roads
✔️ 280,000 lighting assets
✔️ 20,000 miles of footways

They are committed to sustainability and ensuring minimal impact on local communities.

The Role

As a Proposals Manager, you will be a key part of the Strategic Work Winning Team, responsible for securing major contracts and growing the business. You will work alongside Bid Directors to manage high-value, strategic bids across Highways Maintenance, Street Lighting, and Projects sectors.

This role is predominantly home-based, with office attendance as required depending on bid progress.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and coordinate strategic bids, ensuring timely and compliant submissions.
  • Bid writing – from initial storyboarding to final submission.
  • Collaborate and influence bid teams to establish strong win themes and tender strategies.
  • Manage the bid process, engaging with stakeholders from business development, estimating, commercial, and operational teams.
  • Develop and track bid programmes, ensuring key milestones are met.
  • Organise client presentations and negotiation preparation.
  • Drive continuous improvement, incorporating lessons learned into future bids.
  • Lead writing teams, providing coaching and mentoring to bid writers.
  • Ensure alignment between quality submissions and pricing strategy.
  • Maintain bid management systems (BMW) and ensure accurate data tracking.

Skills & Experience Required

✔️ APMP Certification (Desirable).
✔️ Excellent IT skills (Microsoft Word essential).
✔️ Deep understanding of bid processes within construction/highways sectors.
✔️ 5+ years’ experience working on high-value, multi-million-pound construction submissions.
✔️ Strong communication and negotiation skills across all levels.
✔️ Excellent writing and editing ability, able to produce persuasive content.
✔️ Project/Programme Management qualification (Desirable) or equivalent experience.
✔️ Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple bids.

Benefits Package

28 days annual leave + bank holidays
Company car or car allowance + fuel card
Generous pension scheme & life assurance
Hybrid working
Cycle to work scheme & green travel allowance
Employee rewards & discounts (major retailers & cinemas)
Ongoing career development & training
‍ ‍ ‍ Family-friendly policies & employee assistance programme

If you’re interested and would like further details, please get in touch!

Quantity Surveyor

Newport
Permanent Role + Package


The Client:

Our client is a growing business specializing in underground cabling and civil engineering services for a network of clients. With over 10 years in the industry, they have built a strong reputation and a loyal customer base. They value the diversity of experience and perspectives within their workforce, clients, and supply chain.

Having achieved steady, sustainable growth over the past five years, they are expanding their commercial team. This role offers the chance to work alongside the Commercial Manager to review and improve current procedures. The company is involved in a range of projects including:

  • Renewable energy connections
  • Cable installation and associated civils up to 400kV
  • Substation construction works
  • Enabling works
  • Civil work packages
  • Cross-country pipelines

The Role:

As a Quantity Surveyor, you will support the Commercial Manager in managing costs and performance. You will be responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the projects, ensuring efficient cost management and achieving desired margins. You will also be involved in identifying and tracking risks and opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage and monitor project costs, assisting with monthly P&L reporting.
  • Review contract documents and identify potential issues.
  • Track earned value and cash flow forecasts.
  • Produce and review commercial forecasts, Costs to Complete, and Project Finance Reports.
  • Take responsibility for Subcontract Management, including raising orders and negotiating terms.
  • Prepare subcontract documents, assess quotations, and manage orders and payments.
  • Oversee change control processes, risk management, and value management.
  • Manage and track project changes, variations, and compensation events.
  • Prepare and submit interim valuations, payment applications, and final accounts.
  • Be actively involved in tenders and pricing.
  • Complete take-offs and estimates for new enquiries.
  • Support the operational team with commercial and contractual aspects.
  • Visit sites across the UK to measure completed works and attend client meetings.
  • Build strong relationships with stakeholders to support cost management.
  • Role is office-based in Newport, South Wales. Travel required. Must hold a valid driver’s license.

Experience and Qualifications:

  • Degree qualification (RICS accredited or equivalent) desirable but not essential.
  • Experience in the Utilities industry is preferred.
  • Sound knowledge of contractsNEC preferred.
  • Ability to prioritize workload, multi-task, and work under pressure.
  • Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
  • Logical and proactive thinking.

If you are interested and would like more details, please get in touch!

Estimator

Swindon
Permanent Salary + Package


Reports to:

  • Head of Bid Management

Collaborates with:

  • Bid Managers
  • Planners
  • Procurement
  • Technical Services
  • HSQE Advisors
  • Operations Teams

Purpose of the Role:

  • Preparation of detailed and accurate pricing for tenders.
  • Supporting clients with pricing support for early contractor involvement projects.

Role Accountabilities:

  • Ensure company governance procedures are followed at all times.
  • Work with the Bid Manager to ensure competitive pricing.
  • Agree on methodologies and outputs for key activities with the planner and relevant managers.
  • Provide cost-effective design options to the Bid Manager/Design Manager.
  • Price alternative design solutions.
  • Develop competitive prices based on methodologies and outputs suited to the specific scheme.
  • Advise the Bid Manager on the sufficiency of client bills of quantity/activity schedules and arrange for quantity take-offs as needed.

Pricing and Estimates:

  • Prepare price estimates for tenders or budget pricing, including:
    • Develop local rates and build-up rates for self-delivered items.
    • Ensure Working Rule Agreement and specific requirements (like London Living Wage) are included in labour rates.
    • Prepare scheme-specific labour rate calculations when required.
    • Coordinate with Planner to reconcile plant resource levels.
    • Create comparison sheets for materials, considering unit rates, wastage, waiting times, and part loads.
  • Liaise with Procurement to:
    • Select suitable suppliers to send enquiries.
    • Determine the sufficiency and compliance of supplier quotations.
    • Agree on the selection of supplier quotations to be used in the estimate.
    • Assess subcontractor quotations for sufficiency and compliance.

The Candidate:

  • Sound knowledge of civil engineering and construction techniques.
  • Familiarity with relevant procurement legislation.
  • Commercial awareness of different forms of contract.
  • Good understanding of procedural requirements for work winning.
  • Experience with estimating software packages.
  • Ideally, resides locally to the area.
  • Holds a full UK driving license.

If you are interested and would like further details, please get in touch!

Site Engineer
Cardiff
£40k – £50k + company van.

Sphere Solutions are currently looking for a Site Engineer, to work for a well-established civil engineering and road surfacing company in Cardiff.

Our client predominantly operate throughout the South East Wales and carry out works such as the
construction of roads, Car Parks, Retaining Walls, Marine Works, Bridges, public realm and Drainage. The Company’s client list consists predominantly of Local Authorities, other public bodies, developers, and blue chip companies.

All of their site operatives and tradespersons are CSCS certificated and plant operators hold appropriate CPCS qualifications. The Company owns and operates its own fleet of construction plant, including excavators, dumpers, rollers, grab wagons, pick-up trucks.

They have the resources and ability to undertake and complete a wide-range of civil engineering works and are on Welsh Water’s list of approved contractors registered to connect to Dwr Cymru apparatus. Where specialist subcontract services are required, they have excellent working relationships – formed over the past 40+ years – with a wide variety of locally-based subcontractors.

The Candidate:

Experienced in setting out and design information
Ideally experienced in civils – drainage, groundworks, drainage, rc frame
Atleast 5-8 years civils NEC experience
Competent at running their own job and managing sites without supervision
Clean UK driving license

The Package:

Company van
Phone will also be provided
Pension & medical insurance following successful probation period
Equipment provided

If you are looking and want further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Project Manager – Civils

Location: Pontypridd
Type: Permanent role + package

Job Overview

I’m currently recruiting for a Project Manager to work for a specialist subcontractor that offers a range of services, including groundworks, civil engineering, reinforced concrete (RC) frames, architectural concrete, and rail.

We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee an energy sector project in South Wales on a permanent contract. This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading subcontractor and play a key role in delivering critical energy infrastructure and associated civils works.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage the full project lifecycle, from planning and procurement to delivery and handover.
  • Oversee site operations, ensuring work is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
  • Work closely with clients, consultants, and subcontractors to maintain clear communication and project alignment.
  • Ensure compliance with NEC/JCT contracts and all relevant health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations.
  • Implement effective cost control, risk management, and quality assurance procedures.
  • Lead site teams, subcontractors, and suppliers to deliver key project milestones.
  • Conduct progress reporting, stakeholder updates, and project documentation.
  • Identify opportunities for value engineering and cost savings while maintaining quality standards.

Candidate Requirements

  • Proven experience as a Project Manager in civil engineering, energy, or infrastructure.
  • Strong background in reinforced concrete, groundworks, and structures.
  • Ideally, experience in energy projects (e.g., onshore wind, battery storage, substations).
  • SMSTS, CSCS, and Temporary Works Coordinator qualifications are advantageous.
  • Strong understanding of NEC and JCT contracts.
  • Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Full UK Driving License and willingness to travel to site as required.
  • Ideally, local to South Wales (Pontypridd, Cardiff, Newport, Swansea).

How to Apply

If you are interested and would like further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Design Manager – Water

Location: Cardiff
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits Package
Reports to: Framework Director

Job Description

The Principal Design Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating internal and external design teams to ensure projects are delivered on time and in line with client expectations. This role involves managing the design process from concept to completion, ensuring seamless integration of technical and commercial requirements.

Acting as the central point of communication and decision-making for design activities, the Principal Design Manager fosters collaboration among stakeholders, including clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams. Key responsibilities include setting clear objectives, efficiently allocating resources, and ensuring a high-performing design team.

With a focus on technical excellence, the Principal Design Manager ensures designs are accurate, compliant, and aligned with safety standards, minimizing errors and mitigating risks during construction.

A strong commercial focus is crucial, working closely with the commercial team to ensure designs align with budget constraints, manage subcontract design costs, and identify value engineering opportunities.

By balancing technical expertise, team leadership, stakeholder collaboration, and commercial acumen, the Principal Design Manager ensures successful project delivery that meets high-quality standards, remains financially viable, and aligns with the company’s strategic goals.


Qualifications:

  • Degree / HND / HNC in Civil Engineering or a similar discipline.
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
  • Experience in infrastructure, civil engineering, mechanical/process engineering, or utilities.
  • Full GB Driving License.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Project.

Key Objectives:

Collaborating with Clients

  • Work closely with clients to understand expectations and align designs with their vision and budget.
  • Maintain transparent communication and provide regular updates on progress and cost implications.
  • Identify opportunities for added value and build long-term relationships.

Managing Subcontract Design Teams

  • Oversee and coordinate subcontract design teams, ensuring alignment with project requirements, timelines, and budgets.
  • Review and approve subcontractor designs for quality and compliance.
  • Manage contracts and costs, ensuring value for money and holding subcontractors accountable for agreed standards.

Ensuring Timely Delivery of Designs

  • Oversee design production, ensuring strict schedules are met without compromising quality.
  • Monitor progress, address potential delays proactively, and implement process improvements.
  • Ensure deliverables are cost-effective and aligned with financial goals.

Applying Technical Expertise

  • Drive innovative, safe, and cost-efficient solutions.
  • Focus on value engineering to optimize designs, reduce material use, and improve construction methods.
  • Ensure every design decision enhances project efficiency and commercial viability.

Reviewing Designs for Health, Safety, and Cost Implications

  • Ensure compliance with health & safety standards while considering the commercial impact of designs.
  • Identify ways to simplify construction, reduce waste, and lower costs without compromising quality.

Reducing Errors and Risks

  • Implement quality control measures to minimize errors and costly rework.
  • Identify and mitigate potential design risks to safeguard project budgets.

Maintaining Comprehensive Documentation

  • Ensure thorough documentation of the design process, decisions, cost implications, and adjustments.
  • Use documentation for accountability, financial analysis, and continuous improvement.

Staying Informed

  • Keep up-to-date with industry best practices and legislation to identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Ensure designs remain competitive, compliant, and financially efficient.

Balancing Office and Site Work

  • Divide time between office-based tasks (cost tracking, budgeting, and coordination) and site visits.
  • Ensure alignment between design intent and real-world implementation to bridge the gap between concept and construction.

How to Apply

If you are interested and would like further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Senior Quantity Surveyor / Estimator

Location: Newport
Salary: £75K – £80K + Package
Job Type: Permanent

Job Description

I’m currently recruiting for a Senior Quantity Surveyor to join a reputable subcontractor in Newport on a permanent contract. Our client specializes in reinforced concrete (RC) frames and structures.


Key Responsibilities:

  • 10+ years experience as a Quantity Surveyor, with a strong understanding of RC frames and structures.
  • Liaise with Pre-Construction and Construction teams to build and review tenders.
  • Evaluate tender information and develop an appropriate bid/procurement strategy with team members.
  • Obtain quotes and procure materials, suppliers, and subcontractors.
  • Competent in estimating and producing Compensation Events (CEs).
  • Prepare Bills of Quantities (BQs) and Take-offs.
  • Deliver Cost Value Reconciliations (CVRs) to senior management.
  • Oversee project cost control to ensure financial efficiency.
  • Manage project-specific financials, from reviewing contracts to final account stage.
  • Strong knowledge of NEC and JCT contracts.
  • Handle contractual and legal matters arising on projects.
  • Liaise with clients regularly to secure future projects.

What’s on Offer?

  • Competitive salary (£75K – £80K) + benefits package.
  • Permanent role with long-term career progression.
  • Opportunity to work with a leading RC frame subcontractor.

How to Apply

If you are interested and want further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Project Manager – Energy & Civils

Location: South Wales
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits Package

About the Role

This is an exceptional opportunity to join one of the UK’s fastest-growing contractors as a Civil Engineering Project Manager overseeing projects across the UK. If you’re looking for a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment with clear career progression and strong employee engagement, this role is for you.


Key Responsibilities

  • Manage multiple energy projects across the UK, including onshore wind, battery storage, substations, and other infrastructure projects.
  • Oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure efficiency and profitability.
  • Manage contract administration, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.
  • Liaise with clients, stakeholders, subcontractors, and regulatory bodies to ensure smooth project progression.
  • Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards and company policies.

Candidate Requirements

  • Proven experience in civil engineering, ideally managing multiple large-scale projects.
  • Experience working on energy projects (e.g., onshore wind, battery storage, substations).
  • Strong knowledge of NEC and/or JCT contracts.
  • SMSTS, CSCS, and Temporary Works Coordinator qualifications are advantageous.
  • Full UK Driving License is essential.
  • Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
  • Experience in budget management, risk assessments, and project reporting.
  • Ideally located in South Wales (Bridgend, Cardiff, Newport, Swansea).

What’s on Offer?

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • Opportunity to work with a fast-growing, forward-thinking contractor.
  • Strong potential for career progression.
  • Involvement in high-profile energy and infrastructure projects.

How to Apply

If you are interested and would like further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.