Construction Estimator

Recruitsmith; Cape Town; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Technology stipend

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

AECOM is seeking a highly analytical Lead Construction Estimator to join their fully remote team. This senior role focuses on developing accurate, competitive bids for diverse construction projects, leveraging digital tools and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

You will analyze plans, specifications, and cost data, prepare detailed estimates, and mentor junior estimators while coordinating with project managers, engineers, and procurement. Remote work offers flexibility and autonomy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in construction estimating with lead/senior responsibilities.
• Proficiency in estimating software (CostX, Accubid, Planswift) and Excel.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials and cost factors.
• Experience reading complex blueprints and technical docs.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication for remote role.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals and other docs to prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Develop detailed quantity take-offs for materials, labor and equipment.
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor bids for competitive pricing.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers and architects to clarify scope.
• Prepare bid proposals with cost breakdowns, schedules and supporting docs.
• Identify risks and opportunities and suggest mitigations.
• Maintain a database of historical cost data to improve accuracy.
• Mentor junior estimators and provide technical reviews.
• Stay updated on industry trends, methods and material costs.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Negotiation

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field

Tools

CostX

Accubid

Planswift

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly analytical and experienced Lead Construction Estimator to join their fully remote team. This senior role is critical in developing accurate and competitive bids for a wide range of construction projects. As a remote-first organization, we rely on advanced digital tools and collaborative platforms to ensure seamless communication and efficient project assessment. The Lead Construction Estimator will be responsible for analyzing project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare detailed cost estimates. You will work closely with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to ensure all cost factors are considered, from materials and labor to subcontractor quotes and overheads. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned estimator to contribute to impactful projects while enjoying the flexibility and autonomy of a home-based work environment. We are committed to fostering a collaborative culture that supports professional growth and delivers value.

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly analytical and experienced Lead Construction Estimator to join their fully remote team. This senior role is critical in developing accurate and competitive bids for a wide range of construction projects. As a remote‑first organization, we rely on advanced digital tools and collaborative platforms to ensure seamless communication and efficient project assessment. The Lead Construction Estimator will be responsible for analyzing project plans, specifications, and other documentation to prepare detailed cost estimates. You will work closely with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to ensure all cost factors are considered, from materials and labor to subcontractor quotes and overheads. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned estimator to contribute to impactful projects while enjoying the flexibility and autonomy of a home-based work environment. We are committed to fostering a collaborative culture that supports professional growth and delivers value.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, specifications, proposals, and other documentation to prepare accurate cost estimates.
• Develop detailed quantity take-offs for materials, labor, and equipment.
• Obtain and evaluate subcontractor and vendor bids, ensuring competitive and comprehensive pricing.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and architects to clarify project scope and requirements.
• Prepare bid proposals, including cost breakdowns, project schedules, and supporting documentation.
• Identify potential risks and opportunities related to project costs and provide mitigation strategies.
• Maintain a database of historical cost data to improve estimation accuracy.
• Mentor and guide junior estimators, providing technical expertise and review.
• Stay current with industry trends, construction methods, and material costs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in construction estimating, with a strong focus on lead or senior roles.
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., CostX, Accubid, Planswift) and Microsoft Excel.
• Thorough understanding of construction methods, materials, and cost factors.
• Experience in reading and interpreting complex blueprints and technical documents.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, essential for a remote role.
• Ability to manage multiple estimating tasks and meet demanding deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing estimating teams.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with your extensive estimating experience and remote capabilities. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and generous paid time off. We provide a technology stipend to ensure you have the best tools for your remote workspace. This fully remote position offers significant flexibility and work‑life balance. Opportunities for career advancement and influencing estimation strategies within the company are substantial.

Company Description

AECOM is a global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. We provide comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Our benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well‑being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. We partner with public‑ and private‑sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle — from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management.

Equal Opportunity Statement

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.