Cost Estimator

NES Fircroft; Bærum; On-site; NOK 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

NES Fircroft is seeking a Cost Estimator for a defined contract period in Fornebu/Norway. The role focuses on preparing detailed estimates for projects and tenders, analysing specifications, and developing cost models.

You will collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, Procurement, Finance and Operations to ensure accurate budgeting and timely submissions. Ideal candidates bring a bachelor’s degree in a related field, 3+ years in cost estimation or project controls, strong Excel skills, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in an engineering, construction, finance, or related field.
• Certifications in estimating, project controls, or commercial management are a plus.
• Minimum 3 years' experience in cost estimation, tendering, or project controls.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for projects, tenders, maintenance contracts, and service deliveries.
• Analyse technical specs, scope documents, drawings, and client requirements.
• Develop cost breakdown structures and pricing models.
• Evaluate quotations from suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure estimates are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
• Maintain estimating databases, cost libraries, and historical cost records.
• Participate in financial reviews and estimate validation processes.
• Support pricing strategies and bid/no-bid decisions.
• Monitor market trends, labour rates, material costs, and supplier pricing.

Skills

Numerical analysis

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Excel proficiency

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Cost estimation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Construction Management / Quantity Surveying / Finance / Business Administration

Tools

ERP systems

Estimating software

MS Office applications

Job description

Cost Estimator

Contract period: 01.10.2026 - 30.04.2027

Location: Fornebu

Main tasks:

• Cost Estimation and Tender Support:
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for projects, tenders, maintenance contracts, and service deliveries.
• Analyse technical specifications, scope documents, drawings, and client requirements.
• Develop cost breakdown structures and pricing models.
• Evaluate quotations from suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure all estimates are complete, accurate, and submitted within required deadlines.
• Maintain estimating databases, cost libraries, and historical cost records.
• Commercial and Financial Analysis:
• Evaluate project profitability, risks, and commercial assumptions.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and optimisationinitiatives.
• Support pricing strategies and bid/no-bid decisions.
• Participate in financial reviews and estimate validation processes.
• Monitor market trends, labourrates, material costs, and supplier pricing.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
• Work closely with Project Managers, Engineers, Procurement, Finance, and Operations teams.
• Participate in clarification meetings, tender reviews, and project handover activities.
• Provide cost-related advice during project planning and execution.
• Support management with budget forecasts and scenario analyses.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Finance, Business Administration, or related discipline.
• Relevant professional certifications within estimating, project controls, or commercial management are considered an advantage.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in cost estimation, tendering, project controls, commercial management, or related disciplines.
• Experience preparing estimates for engineering, EPC, industrial, energy, or process industry projects.
• Strong understanding of project execution, procurement, and cost management principles.
• Experience supporting tender submissions, commercial evaluations, and project budgeting activities.
• Experience working with ERP systems, estimating software, and project management tools.
• Strong understanding of cost estimating processes, methodologies, and best practices.
• Advanced numerical, analytic, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of product, equipment, and manufacturing cost structures.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Good understanding of project life-cyclestages and project execution models.
• Experience with estimating software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Knowledge of procurement processes, contract structures, and commercial evaluations.
• Strong analyticand problem-solving abilities.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Proactive, structured, and results-oriented mindset.
• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining andManufacturingsectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.