Job title: Precontracts Engineer/Estimator - Sunshine Coast
Job type: Permanent
Emp type: Full-time
Industry: Civil Construction
Salary type: Annual
Salary from: AUD $200,000.00
Salary to: negotiable
Job published: 29-05-2025
Job ID: 35622

Job Description

A growing civil construction group is seeking a driven and experienced Estimator to join their Structures team based out of their Sunshine Coast office. This department delivers mega projects and an average project size of around $3M.

Reporting to the Precontracts Manager, this role will work closely with the Director currently leading the estimating function. With the right performance, there’s a clear pathway for the successful candidate to step into the Estimating Manager role within the next two years.

This is an opportunity for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is ready to take full ownership of the tender lifecycle—from initial concept through to post-submission negotiations.

What You’ll Bring

  • You’re a capable and detail-focused Estimator with experience in concrete structures across civil or water infrastructure.
  • You’ve successfully priced and managed tenders ranging from $2M–$20M, including projects such as bridges, culverts, tanks, reservoirs, and boat ramps.
  • Your strengths lie in analysing work methods, assessing alternatives, and identifying smart, cost-effective solutions. You enjoy the challenge of developing competitive bids while balancing innovation and risk management.

Key Responsibilities

  • Interpret and evaluate tender documentation to determine scope, risk, and client expectations
  • Prepare accurate cost estimates, programs, and methodologies
  • Engage with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal teams to produce competitive submissions
  • Ensure tenders align with safety, quality, and environmental standards
  • Conduct site visits, assess competitor approaches, and identify strategic opportunities
  • Coordinate tender review processes and ensure timely, high-quality submissions
  • Assist with post-tender negotiations and handovers to project delivery team

What You Need to Succeed

  • Proven experience in civil infrastructure estimation 
  • Tertiary qualifications in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or similar (preferred but not essential)
  • 5+ years of estimating experience within civil or water infrastructure projects
  • Strong attention to detail and a positive, team-oriented mindset
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate under pressure
  • Formal qualifications in Engineering, Construction Management, or Quantity Surveying (preferred but not essential)
  • Proficiency in MS Project
  • Ability to travel for tender briefings as required
  • A proactive approach to follow-up and accountability across the bid process
  • A drive to deliver high-quality, competitive tenders under tight deadlines

Example Projects:

  • Civil structures including culverts, retaining walls, and bridges valued between $3M–$10M
  • Water infrastructure assets including tanks and reservoirs
  • Marine structures such as boat ramps and jetties

This is a key role within a forward-thinking team, offering career progression and the opportunity to make a real impact in the civil infrastructure space.