Lead Estimator — Global First‑Principles Cost Lead

Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd; Manila; On-site; PHP 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd is seeking a Lead Estimator to develop, lead, and deliver robust cost estimation across all project stages. You will coordinate inputs from engineering, procurement, construction, and delivery teams to produce reliable estimates.

The role requires strong first-principles estimating capability, deep technical understanding, and the ability to mentor junior estimators while applying Aurecon’s values and local design standards to client-focused solutions.

Qualifications

• Minimum eight (8) years' estimating experience with recognised engineering contractors or heavy construction firms.
• Strong first-principles estimating knowledge with detailed quantity take-offs and cost build-ups.
• Experience leading and mentoring an estimating team.
• Proficiency in reading construction plans and using estimating software.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating activities across multiple disciplines and project lifecycles.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates for concept, FEED, detailed design, and delivery.
• Develop first-principles labour-hour build-ups for structural steel, mechanical equipment, piping, and design packages.
• Coordinate estimating inputs across engineering, procurement, construction, suppliers, and project stakeholders.
• Mentor junior estimators and maintain detailed estimating spreadsheets and tender/submission documentation.
• Review estimates for accuracy, completeness, and alignment with project scope and commercial requirements.

Skills

First-principles estimating

Estimating knowledge

Mentoring junior estimators

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Microsoft Excel

Reading construction plans

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification in Quantity Surveying / Engineering / Estimating / Construction Management

Tools

Estimating software

Digital estimating tools

Job description

Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd is seeking a Lead Estimator to develop, lead, and deliver robust cost estimation across all project stages. You will coordinate inputs from engineering, procurement, construction, and delivery teams to produce reliable estimates.

The role requires strong first-principles estimating capability, deep technical understanding, and the ability to mentor junior estimators while applying Aurecon’s values and local design standards to client-focused solutions.