Project Estimator (Water and Sewer Networks - AU)
JOB SUMMARY
The Project Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate project estimates by reviewing scope-of-work documents, assessing building plans, and visiting sites to understand project needs.
The role involves compiling material lists, obtaining quotes from suppliers and subcontractors, and conducting cost analyses to ensure projects stay within budget.
Under general supervision from the Estimate Manager, the Project Estimator collaborates with the Delivery Team, Design Team, project managers, contractors, and engineers to prepare comprehensive estimates, perform risk assessments, and draft proposals.
The Project Estimator also seeks ways to optimise project costs, accuracy, quality, and adherence to best practices.
As the Project Estimator gains experience, there are opportunities for increased responsibility in managing complex projects. Ongoing training, development and practical experience within this position will enable the Project Estimator to develop increasing professional judgement in our industry and progress to higher level of responsibility and independence in working on more complex tasks.
The work of Project Estimator is reviewed by the supervisor for validity, adequacy, quality and innovation
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES- Project Evaluation & Planning
- Review project documents and building plans to understand requirements.
- Visit construction sites to gather project insights.
- Prepare the tender review form and provide clear SOW (scope of work).
- Prepare the line diagram in Nearmap of Google earth to show the SOW.
- Research about the project and show some examples.
- Research about the budget and provide the indicative value.
- Cost Management & Estimation
- Estimate labour/plant/equipment costs for the SOW (scope of work).
- Create and manage material lists, including cost estimation.
- Obtain and evaluate quotes from suppliers and contractors.
- Collaborate with project teams to generate accurate estimates.
- Identify cost-saving strategies to stay within budget.
- Monitor market trends and material prices.
- Proposal & Contract Management
- Draft proposals detailing materials, costs, and timelines.
- Prepare bid packages and assist in contract negotiations.
- Review and approve purchase orders.
- Prepare Methodology and Schedule
- Draft methodology to clear demonstration of the project delivery stage by stage.
- Prepare the chronology of the task and staging
- Prepare the preliminary program to demonstrate tasks, its staging and meeting the contracts requirement.
- Demonstrate the improvement of the methodologies for every tender.
- Risk & Financial Oversight
- Conduct risk assessments and account for potential cost deviations.
- Track and report on project costs.
- Develop contingency plans and assist in value engineering.
- Project Evaluation & Team Development with leadership
- Complete and evaluate Cost-Revenue analysis.
- Provide training and mentoring to junior estimators.
- Lead the team to ensure it meets the KPI.
- Yearly Audit
- Prepare relevant task in relation the client yearly Audit.
- Prepare and organise the meeting minutes for the 3rd party audit.
- Provide at least 2 x innovative idea to the client IMS and register.
- Minimum 5+ years of experience as a Project Estimator or Project Engineer in Australian construction or infrastructure projects.
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field (or equivalent industry experience).
- Strong skills in reviewing project plans, conducting site visits, and preparing SOWs, tender documents, line diagrams, and indicative budgets.
- Experienced in cost estimation (labour, plant, equipment, materials), analysing supplier quotes, monitoring market pricing, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
- Skilled in developing project methodologies, staging plans, and preliminary project schedules aligned with contract requirements.
- Knowledgeable in risk assessment, financial reporting, cost tracking, value engineering, and contingency planning.
- Demonstrated leadership in mentoring junior estimators and supporting team KPI achievements.
- Familiar with annual audits, documentation preparation, meeting minutes, and submitting innovative ideas to enhance client IMS.