Contract Administrator

Hutchinson Builders; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Hutchies in Cairns is seeking an experienced Contract Administrator to join our team on a full-time permanent basis. You’ll work within a diverse portfolio across health, community, government and education sectors, supporting subcontract administration, document control and cost forecasting.

Join a down-to-earth, supportive team with strong leadership, opportunities for growth and a focus on delivering quality outcomes for Far North Queensland communities.

Qualifications

• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role, ideally with a principal contractor.
• Proven ability to manage subcontract documentation and cost forecasting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of construction techniques, market conditions & industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare Subcontracts and associated documentation.
• Manage document control and liaise with project team.
• Undertake site visits as required.
• Prepare monthly reports and cost forecasts.
• Monitor cash flow statements and project status.
• Maintain relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers & consultants.
• Liaise with client regarding progress claims.
• Administer Head/Subcontracts, Supply Agreements and Purchase Orders.
• Maintain variations, EOT and procurement registers.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Relationship building

Analytical ability

Independent initiative

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Tertiary qualifications in construction or related field

Job description

Looking for your next challenge in tropical North Queensland?

Hutchies is on the lookout for an experienced Contract Administrator to join our growing Cairns team on a full-time permanent basis.

With a strong pipeline of work across the region, this is a great opportunity to join Australia's largest privately-owned builder and be part of projects that genuinely make a difference to local communities.

Our Cairns team delivers a diverse range of projects across the health, community, government, commercial, education and social infrastructure sectors. From major public facilities and community hubs through to refurbishments, fit-outs and complex construction projects, you'll gain exposure to a broad variety of work and build valuable experience across multiple sectors.

Since opening in Cairns in 1997, Hutchies has developed a reputation for strong relationships, practical problem-solving and delivering quality outcomes. We're proud of our local team, our long-standing client relationships and the positive impact our projects have throughout Far North Queensland.

At Hutchies, you're not just another employee number.

You’ll be part of a supportive, down-to-earth team where people genuinely enjoy coming to work. We work hard, have a laugh along the way and back our people to succeed. You'll have access to experienced leaders, opportunities to grow your skills and the chance to build a long-term career with a company that promotes from within.

And let's not forget the lifestyle. Working in Cairns means finishing your day with the reef, rainforest, islands and some of Australia's best outdoor adventures right on your doorstep. Whether you're a local or looking for a sea change, it's a pretty good place to call home.

Responsibilities

• Preparation of Subcontracts and associated Subcontract documentation
• Document control
• Work closely with the project team, including site personnel
• Undertake site visits when required
• Preparation of monthly reports
• Prepare cost forecasts, monitor financial status, and prepare cash flow statements
• Foster and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers and consultants
• Liaise with the client regarding progress claims to the Head Contract
• Administration of Head and Subcontracts, Supply Agreements and Purchase Orders
• Maintaining and managing variations, EOT and procurement registers

Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in the respective field for this role
• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role, ideally with a principle contractor
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Professional written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent analytical and problem solving skill
• Strong knowledge of market conditions, construction techniques, and industry standards
• Ability to work in a team environment and have initiative when working independently
• Strong relationship building with all relevant stakeholders
• A down to earth, fun, friendly and professional approach to your work

What we offer

At Hutchies, we offer more than a job. We offer a career built on support, opportunity and genuine connection.

You’ll be part of a down‑to‑earth, family‑owned business with a proud history and a strong future. Our culture is collaborative, inclusive and people‑focused. We take an open‑door approach, where anyone can speak to anyone, at any time.

We work hard, celebrate our successes, and look after each other.

Career development and learning

We invest heavily in developing our people.

From structured programs like our Cadet Summer School and ongoing training, to hands‑on experience across live projects, you’ll have opportunities to build skills and progress your career at Hutchies.

Eligible company members may also access our Global Building Exchange Program. This offers fully funded international placements with our partners in London (Wates) or Canada (Axiom). It’s a chance to broaden your experience while working overseas.

Your well-being matters to us.

We provide access to industry‑leading Employee Assistance Programs for company members, their partners and immediate family members. We also support mental health through our long‑standing partnership with Mates in Construction.

As a Hutchies company member, you’ll have access to a range of benefits, including:

• Discounted personal travel and flights
• Access to our communal team boats Yes, we have three!
• Health insurance and wellbeing offers
• Superannuation optionsVehicle purchasing programs
• Retail and lifestyle discounts
• Memberships and professional associations

Social & recognition

Hutchies' social club brings people together throughout the year. We host regular events, family activities and team celebrations.

We also recognise long‑term commitment through service milestone awards and annual excellence awards. These celebrate the contribution and achievements of our people.

The Hutchies difference

Hutchies has been building the structures in which Australians live, work, study, shop and play since 1912. From our early beginnings, we have grown into a dynamic and diverse construction company, delivering sophisticated projects across a comprehensive portfolio.

We're not like other builders. Relationships are everything to us – whether it's with our people, our clients, or the local communities in which we live and work.

A fair go for all

Hutchies is all about equal opportunities and embracing diversity. Our commitment to an inclusive, people focused culture isn't just talk — it's who we are. Through initiatives like Statim Yaga and partnerships like NAWIC and UNIQ You, we're putting our values into action. So, whether you're part of our award winning Indigenous programs or advancing women in construction, you're part of a family that values long term relationships and community. We're not just building structures; we're building a workplace where everyone gets a fair go.