Cost Estimator

Downer Professional Services; Canberra; On-site; AUD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare discounts

Access to professional development programs

Veteran support initiatives

Flexible work options

Job summary

An engineering and professional services firm in Canberra seeks a Cost Estimator to deliver key financial support and analysis for Defence projects. The ideal candidate will possess proven experience in cost estimation and policy within the Defence industry, with a focus on strategic costing and stakeholder engagement. Strong analytical skills and a security clearance are required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Cost Policy and estimation in Defence industry.
• Prior experience in drafting Cost Policy and standardised costing template tailored for ICT projects.
• Ability to interpret complex data and contribute to capability planning and prioritisation.

Responsibilities

• Providing Program financial support and reporting on expenditure.
• Conducting Cost Modelling and Analysis.
• Engaging with stakeholders and providing advice on Project costing.

Skills

Cost Policy and estimation

Analytical skills

Strategic thinking

Job description

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia’s future.

Downer Professional Services is comprised of two business units, our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice and Team Downer, a major service partner to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for our clients in Defence and National Security.

We currently have an opportunity for a Cost Estimator in Canberra to work on a large project, aligning the cost policy with Defence Capability Costing policy and contributing to strategic uplift and professionalisation of cost estimation capability.

What You’ll Do

• Providing Program financial support, accounting and reporting program/project funds projections and expenditure on Defence finance systems.
• Cost Modelling and Analysis
• Stakeholder engagement and provision of advice and recommendation on best practices of Project costing and WBS structuring.
• Industry engagement to rectify cost anomalies
• Presentation of findings, cost estimation, cost analysis and recommendations to stakeholders
• Formulating costing briefs and costing assurance reports for the stakeholders
• Preparation of costing and financial tables for Cabinet Submissions

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in Cost Policy and estimation in Defence industry.
• Prior experience in drafting Cost Policy and standardised costing template tailored for ICT projects.
• Analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and contribute to capability planning and prioritisation.

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 1 Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement.

More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Why Downer Professional Services

At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace – we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services

• Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future.
• Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice.
• Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer.
• Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service.

We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging. We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with this role, we’d still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply – potential counts, and so do you.

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it.

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward.

Location: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia