Senior Estimator

RobLawMax Recruitment; Papakura; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

RobLawMax Recruitment represents a client seeking a Senior Estimator to shape competitive tenders for civil infrastructure in Auckland and the wider region. You will work with project teams, suppliers, and clients to deliver accurate estimates and robust pricing strategies.

The role offers exposure to high-profile projects, leadership development, and a collaborative environment where your insights influence project outcomes and business growth.

Qualifications

• Experience estimating civil infrastructure projects in New Zealand.
• Proven ability to prepare accurate and commercially competitive tenders.
• Strong understanding of risks, opportunities, and cost planning.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency with estimating software and advanced Excel-based tools.
• Collaborative and team-focused approach.
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking.
• Confidence to engage with clients, suppliers and stakeholders.
• Proactive with leadership aspirations.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications preferred, not essential.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate, competitive estimates and tender submissions.
• Develop methodologies and pricing strategies for civil projects.
• Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors for pricing.
• Identify risks, opportunities, and cost-saving solutions.
• Support negotiations and client engagement activities.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and QS during handover.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of estimating systems.
• Mentor junior team members as the business grows.

Skills

Civil infrastructure estimating

Estimating software

Commercial acumen

Leadership potential

Education

Tertiary qualifications preferred

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

The Company

Our client is a highly respected civil infrastructure contractor with a reputation for delivering quality projects, fostering long-term relationships, and creating an environment where good people can do their best work.
With a strong pipeline of work and ambitious growth plans, they are looking for a Senior Estimator who wants to be more than just a number. This is an opportunity to join a collaborative team where your expertise, ideas, and commercial insight will genuinely influence the direction of the business.

The Position

As Senior Estimator, you will play a pivotal role in securing and shaping a diverse range of civil infrastructure projects across Auckland and the wider region.
Working closely with project teams, suppliers, subcontractors, and clients, you will be responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and commercially sound tenders while identifying opportunities to add value and minimise risk.
This position offers genuine variety, visibility, and influence, making it ideal for someone who enjoys taking ownership and contributing to the success of both projects and people.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing accurate and competitive estimates and tender submissions
• Developing methodologies and pricing strategies for civil infrastructure projects
• Liaising with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing
• Identifying risks, opportunities, and cost-saving solutions
• Supporting negotiations and client engagement activities
• Collaborating with Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors through project handover
• Assisting with the continuous improvement of estimating systems and processes
• Mentoring and supporting junior team members as the business grows

Skills and Experience Required

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Experience estimating civil infrastructure projects within New Zealand
• Proven ability to prepare accurate and commercially competitive tenders
• Strong understanding of project risks, opportunities, and cost planning
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Proficiency with estimating software and advanced Excel-based tools
• A collaborative and team-focused approach
• Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking capability
• The confidence to engage with clients, suppliers, and project stakeholders
• A proactive mindset with aspirations to grow your leadership capability
• Relevant tertiary qualifications preferred, but not essential

What's in it for you

• Join a business where your input is valued and your expertise respected
• Work alongside experienced professionals who enjoy what they do
• Become a key contributor within a growing and successful organisation
• Enjoy genuine autonomy and influence over high-profile projects
• Clear opportunities for professional development and future leadership
• Competitive salary package aligned with your experience and contribution
• Be part of a team that celebrates success and supports each other through challenges