Estimator: Pre-Construction & Tendering Specialist

Cook Brothers Construction; Auckland; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cook Brothers Construction is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our national Pre-Construction team across NZ. You’ll prepare competitive tenders, measure quantities, develop budgets, and support regional delivery from Queenstown to Auckland.

In this role you’ll liaise with clients, trade partners, and design teams, review subcontractor quotations, and ensure tender activities follow our processes. A Diploma/Degree in a relevant field and 5+ years’ estimating experience are required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ estimating experience on tier 2 commercial construction projects.
• National Diploma or Degree in a relevant field (required)
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to build credibility and rapport
• Proven budget and cost control capability
• Experience in commercial risk management and reporting
• Ability to read and interpret drawings and specifications
• Tendering and negotiation skills
• High level of integrity and professional standards
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and able to read Microsoft Project
• Strong teamwork skills and ability to contribute to a close-knit team
• Knowledge of the Construction Contracts Act and Local Government Act (preferred)
• Commitment to Zero Harm and safe work practices

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate, competitive, and commercially sustainable tenders
• Measure quantities and develop detailed project budgets
• Liaise with clients, trade partners, and design teams during pre-construction
• Review subcontractor and supplier quotations and make informed selections
• Ensure all tender activities follow agreed processes and systems
• Accurately measure direct works trades using CostX
• Administer tender documentation through Procore
• Write clear, descriptive, and accurate tender submission letters
• Work closely with operational teams on tender programmes and buildability
• Share knowledge with the Estimating team and wider business
• Uphold Zero Harm principles and promote a positive health & safety culture

Skills

Estimating experience

Communication skills

Budget & cost control

Risk management

Drawings & specs reading

Tendering & negotiation

MS Word/Excel/Outlook

MS Project

Teamwork

Zero Harm / safety

Education

National Diploma or Degree in a relevant field

Tools

CostX

Procore

Microsoft Project

Job description

Cook Brothers Construction is seeking an experienced Estimator to join our national Pre-Construction team across NZ. You’ll prepare competitive tenders, measure quantities, develop budgets, and support regional delivery from Queenstown to Auckland.

In this role you’ll liaise with clients, trade partners, and design teams, review subcontractor quotations, and ensure tender activities follow our processes. A Diploma/Degree in a relevant field and 5+ years’ estimating experience are required.