Deputy Head of Design and Estimation (Lagos)

Our client is an engineering and technical services company specializing in project execution and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems for construction projects. They are committed to delivering quality engineering solutions while maintaining high standards of safety, efficiency, and technical excellence. They are looking to hire a Head of Design and Estimation in Lagos.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and overall direction for the design and estimation functions across all MEP disciplines, ensuring alignment with company objectives, project requirements, and client expectations.
  

• Oversee the preparation of complete MEP designs, including HVAC (VRF systems and chilled water systems), plumbing, and fire protection systems, ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and best practices.
  

• Lead the materials estimation process for projects, quantity take-offs, and value engineering to deliver competitive and accurate tenders.
  

• Coordinate closely with project ownership, commercial, procurement, and delivery teams to ensure designs are buildable, cost-effective, and aligned with execution strategies.
  

• Review and approve all design calculations, drawings, specifications, and estimates before submission to clients, consultants, or authorities.
  

• Ensure the effective use of AutoCAD and other relevant design and estimation software to produce high-quality drawings, layouts, and documentation.
  

• Manage design development from concept and tender stages through detailed design and IFC (Issued for Construction) documentation.
  

• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to design engineers and estimators, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and continuous improvement within the team.
  

• Identify project risks related to design during tender and pre-construction phases and develop mitigation strategies.
  

• Liaise with clients, consultants, and authorities to clarify technical requirements, resolve design issues, and support approvals.
  

• Support contract negotiations by providing technical clarifications and value engineering proposals.
  

• Continuously review market trends and new technologies to improve design efficiency, accuracy of estimates, and overall project competitiveness.
  

Job Requirement

• Minimum of a first degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, from a reputable institution.
  

• Minimum of 6 years’ proven experience in MEP design and estimation, with strong exposure to HVAC systems (VRF and chilled water), plumbing, and fire protection systems.
  

• Demonstrated experience in preparing detailed designs, technical calculations, BOQs, and cost estimates for medium- to large-scale projects.
  

• Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD; experience with other design and estimation software is an advantage.
  

• Experience supporting tendering processes, technical submissions, and value engineering.
  

• Proven leadership experience, with evidence of successfully managing design and estimation teams.
  

• Ability to independently design and estimate MEP systems, including the preparation of full calculation packages and drawings.
  

Skills and Competencies

• Strong technical and analytical skills, with high attention to detail.
  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for coordination with internal teams, clients, and consultants.
  

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
  

• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of project cost drivers.
  

• Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tenders and projects simultaneously.
  

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  

• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines while maintaining quality and accuracy.