We are looking for a Pre-Construction Manager to strengthen COEL’s Contract-lane pre-construction and estimating capability. This is a full-time, permanent role based in Cambridge, with the possibility of hybrid working (one day per week).
Closing Date: August 10, 2026
The role will help us win appropriate, profitable contract-led work by leading tender strategy, estimating, cost planning, technical coordination, risk review, supply chain engagement, bid quality and handover into delivery. It is not an estimating-only role or a bid administration role. We are looking for someone who can bring commercial judgement, structure and calm challenge before COEL commits to price, programme or contract terms.
You will work closely with Business Development, Design, Commercial, Procurement, Delivery and senior leadership colleagues to ensure opportunities are properly qualified, tenders are robust and submissions are clear, compliant and commercially sound.
A key part of the role will be improving tender discipline, protecting margin, surfacing risk earlier and ensuring delivery teams receive clear, usable information at project handover.
This role will suit an experienced pre-construction, estimating or tender management professional from a construction, fit-out, refurbishment, interiors or main contractor environment who is organised, commercially confident, collaborative and comfortable working across multiple stakeholders.
Find out more about this role before applying, here.
COEL is a Cambridge-based commercial design and build, fit-out and workplace delivery business. We create inspiring, high-performing spaces for clients across the region, combining practical delivery capability with strong client relationships and a reputation for professionalism.
We are investing in a more joined-up One COEL approach to winning and delivering work, bringing together Business Development, Design, Pre-construction, Commercial, Procurement and Delivery at the right time. Our focus is on choosing the right opportunities, pricing risk properly, protecting margin and setting project teams up for success.
COEL is building a high-trust, high-performance culture where people take ownership, work collaboratively and improve how things are done. We value clear accountability, evidence-based decision-making, simple processes that people actually follow, and a continuous improvement mindset.
