Estimator - Substations

Aurex Constructors; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Aurex Constructors seeks an experienced Estimator – Substations to join our Transmission & Distribution team in South Africa. You will prepare accurate cost estimates for HV/MV substations to support tender submissions and business development across SA and the region.

The role requires strong technical, commercial, and analytical skills to evaluate project requirements, risks, and develop detailed cost estimates for EPC, construction, and infrastructure projects.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• Minimum 5–10 years' estimating experience within the electrical, transmission, distribution, or construction sector.
• Proven experience estimating substation projects within HV and MV environments.
• Strong knowledge of EPC, construction, and project costing principles.
• Ability to interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and BOQs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating software.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for HV and MV substation projects.
• Analyse tender documents, drawings, specifications, BOQs, and customer requirements.
• Develop material, labour, plant, subcontractor, and equipment cost estimates.
• Compile pricing schedules and commercial submissions.
• Maintain estimating databases and historical cost information.

Skills

Analytical skills

Numerical skills

Commercial awareness

Attention to detail

Risk assessment

Cost modelling

Time management

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Electrical Engineering / Construction Management / Quantity Surveying (Diploma or Degree)

Tools

Excel

Estimating software

Job description

Aurex is seeking an experienced Estimator – Substations to join our growing Transmission & Distribution team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates for substation projects, supporting tender submissions and business development opportunities across South Africa and the broader region.

The role requires strong technical, commercial, and analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate project requirements, assess risks, and develop detailed cost estimates for EPC, construction, and infrastructure projects.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• Minimum 5–10 years' estimating experience within the electrical, transmission, distribution, or construction sector.
• Proven experience estimating substation projects within HV and MV environments.
• Strong knowledge of EPC, construction, and project costing principles.
• Ability to interpret electrical drawings, specifications, and BOQs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and estimating software.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Transmission and distribution infrastructure.
• Eskom, municipal, utility, or renewable energy projects.
• Substations up to 400kV.
• Renewable energy grid connection projects.
• EPC and turnkey project environments.

COMPETENCIES

• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Commercial awareness
• Attention to detail
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Cost modelling and estimating
• Time management and prioritisation
• Negotiation and supplier engagement
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work under tight tender deadlines

MAIN OBJECTIVES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

Tender & Estimating

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for HV and MV substation projects.
• Analyse tender documents, drawings, specifications, BOQs, and customer requirements.
• Develop material, labour, plant, subcontractor, and equipment cost estimates.
• Compile pricing schedules and commercial submissions.
• Maintain estimating databases and historical cost information.

Technical Review

• Review engineering designs and technical documentation.
• Identify scope gaps, risks, and opportunities during the tender process.
• Liaise with engineering teams to clarify technical requirements.
• Evaluate alternative construction methodologies and value-engineering opportunities.

Commercial & Risk Assessment

• Conduct commercial reviews of tender opportunities.
• Identify project risks and develop appropriate pricing strategies.
• Prepare bid assumptions, exclusions, qualifications, and contingencies.
• Support contract review processes and tender negotiations.

Supplier & Subcontractor Engagement

• Obtain quotations from suppliers and subcontractors.
• Evaluate supplier pricing and technical compliance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and strategic partners.

Reporting & Bid Support

• Prepare tender summaries and management reports.
• Present estimate reviews and recommendations to management.
• Support bid submissions and clarification meetings with customers.
• Assist with project handovers to operations following award.

At Aurex we value the dynamic element of diversity and embrace the different perspectives everyone brings to the business. We appreciate the authenticity that each individual contributes as we create an inclusive working environment where everyone brings their whole selves to work every day. As we strive to be an employer of choice, we ensure that our employees are fairly treated. We promote physical and mental health for everyone. At Aurex, our people matter.

In terms of our Employment Equity policy, preference will be given to applicants who are disabled or from a previously disadvantaged background. If you have not heard from us within one week of your application, please regard your application as having been unsuccessful.