Senior Estimator

About the Role and Company

As a Senior Estimator at Downer, you will play a crucial role in preparing precise estimates for various bids, focusing on project and maintenance contracts. Downer is a premier provider of integrated services across Australia and New Zealand, dedicated to planning, constructing, and maintaining assets, infrastructure, and facilities through trusted partnerships and expert insights.

Why Join Downer?

• Competitive pay and job security with an established industry leader
• Complimentary access to Marram health care benefits and discounts on holiday homes
• Chance to contribute to landmark infrastructure projects that positively impact communities
• Flexible work arrangements to promote work-life balance
• A $500 referral bonus for current employees recommending friends
• Opportunities for career growth including leadership development programs for high achievers

Key Responsibilities

Reporting to the Estimating Lead, you will collaborate with a skilled tendering team experienced in the Transport and Infrastructure sectors. Your main duties will include preparing accurate and competitive bids and quotations, ensuring profitability while adhering to market standards. Responsibilities include analyzing tender documents, assessing market rates, evaluating asset conditions, identifying subcontractor needs, and applying first-principle cost estimation methods.

You will coordinate with internal teams such as financial analysts, business development, and operations to ensure all bids meet governance and approval standards. Upon contract award, you will support smooth information transfer to relevant teams swiftly and professionally.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Extensive background in civil estimating within Infrastructure, Utilities, and Transport sectors with hands-on site experience valued
• Familiarity with maintenance contract tendering is advantageous
• Proficient with industry-specific estimating software (examples include CANDY, Benchmark)
• Strong technical knowledge of civil construction techniques
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel
• Excellent commercial acumen, numerical and analytical capabilities with attention to detail
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Clear understanding and application of first principles of estimating
• High-level negotiation and analytical skills
• Sound knowledge of project management methodologies
• Ability to manage workload under pressure and prioritize effectively
• Experience working in a formal New Zealand civil tendering environment

Additional Information

This full-time, permanent position is preferably located at the Downer Penrose depot but may also be based at other North Island regional depots including Hamilton, Taranaki, Taupō, or Tauranga.

Downer is committed to providing a safe work environment. Successful candidates must undergo pre-employment screening including drug testing, medical examination, and a Ministry of Justice background check. Support is available for candidates requiring assistance with these requirements.

Downer values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applications from candidates with a broad range of experiences, skills, and cultural backgrounds.