Lead Estimator

KBR, Inc.; Adelaide; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR is seeking a Lead Estimator in South Australia to own estimating for a major resources and mining project spanning copper, minerals and process plant development. You will lead cost estimation activities, review subcontractor quotes, and drive value assurance with delivery teams and clients.

The role requires senior leadership, deep understanding of estimating methodologies, and ability to mentor junior estimators while managing multiple project phases to deliver transparent cost outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline.
• Extensive estimating experience in resources/mining.
• Leadership ability to mentor estimators.
• Knowledge of cost assurance and value-for-money principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the estimating function for a major resources project.
• Oversee first-principles reviews of contractor cost estimates.
• Validate methodology, risk & opportunity, and schedule.
• Recommend contractor awards and cost adjustments.
• Engage with internal teams and clients to confirm value outcomes.
• Manage estimating workflows and approvals across phases.
• Develop and review estimates across AACEI classes 5 to 2.
• Interpret technical specs to assess cost implications.
• Lead preparation of subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Deliver tender handovers with Basis of Estimates.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating tools.
• Facilitate change management and trend analysis.

Skills

Leadership

Estimating software

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder communication

Cost management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or related

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

Make your mark on a project that matters – with a team that values you.

At KBR, we know that great outcomes start with great people. That’s why we’re looking for a passionate and experienced Lead Estimator who’s ready to take ownership of a major resources and mining project in South Australia. This project includes significant scopes across copper, minerals, mine infrastructure, and process plant development—making it a career-defining opportunity for the right candidate.

If you thrive in a collaborative environment, enjoy solving complex challenges, and want to be part of a team that genuinely supports and values its people—this is your opportunity to lead with impact.

About the Role:

This is a senior role within our PMO team, responsible for leading estimating efforts across complex scopes including copper processing, mineral handling, mine infrastructure, and process plant construction. You’ll work closely with delivery teams, clients, and partners to ensure cost transparency and strategic alignment throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the estimating function for a major resources project, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and strategic alignment.
• Oversee first-principles reviews of contractor cost estimates.
• Validate methodology, risk & opportunity, and schedule against client and regulatory requirements.
• Provide expert recommendations on contractor awards and cost adjustments.
• Engage with internal teams, client stakeholders, and delivery partners to confirm value assurance outcomes.
• Manage estimating workflows, resource allocation, and approvals across multiple project phases.
• Develop and review cost estimates across AACEI classifications (Class 5 to Class 2).
• Interpret technical specifications and standards to assess cost implications.
• Lead the preparation and assessment of subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Deliver high-quality tender handovers, including development of Basis of Estimates documentation.
• Drive continuous improvement in estimating tools, templates, and methodologies.
• Facilitate the change management and trending process via estimating data and expert advice.

Skills & Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Extensive experience in estimating for resources, mining, or minerals processing projects, ideally in a lead or senior capacity.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor junior estimators and coordinate cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of copper and mineral processing, mine infrastructure, and process plant construction.
• Proficiency with estimating software.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders and present recommendations clearly.
• Skilled at managing competing priorities and delivering under tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with risk management, cost assurance, and value-for-money principles in capital project delivery.
• To be eligible, applicants must be currently residing in Australia and possess valid Australian work rights.

About KBR:

KBR is renowned for working in partnership with our clients and construction partners to deliver exceptional outcomes based on our collaborative approach and our “One Team” value.

In Australia, KBR employs nearly 2000 people with offices in each state. Our project delivery track record, industry profile and strong relationships have enabled us to grow significantly, and we continue to expand. This continued growth allows us to offer unrivalled opportunities to our staff in terms of career paths, career development and project exposure.

Creating a superb culture is also huge for us and a key part of our success and growth. Genuine collaboration across the business is integral to how we work. As a company, KBR has created an organisation where people matter, are valued, and cared about. By joining KBR you can be assured that you are joining a team that pulls in the same direction and shares common values.

In addition to working on some fantastic projects, KBR offers an array of benefits focused on providing our people with a great working environment, career development, flexible work arrangements and work/life balance.

KBR Values:

Our KBR Values – We Value Our People, We Deliver, We Are People of Integrity, We Empower, We Are a Team of Teams – embody our people-centric organisation.