Remote Lead Estimator - Construction Projects

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Competitive salary

Profit-sharing opportunities

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Lead Estimator in South Africa to oversee the full estimation lifecycle for diverse construction projects. You will lead a team of estimators, review plans, and coordinate with project managers, engineers, and procurement to ensure accurate, competitive bids.

The ideal candidate has a degree in CM/QS/Engineering and at least seven years of cost estimation experience, including leadership. This fully remote role supports projects nationwide across SA.

Qualifications

• Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering or related discipline.
• 7+ years of construction cost estimation experience, 2+ years in leadership.
• Experience estimating diverse projects: commercial, industrial, residential.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimation process from tender to contract award.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates incl. labor, materials, equipment, subs.
• Review plans and tender docs to identify scope and requirements.
• Collaborate with PMs, engineers, procurement for accuracy.
• Mentor junior estimators and ensure quality control.
• Develop supplier relationships for competitive pricing.
• Perform risk assessments and contingency planning.
• Utilize estimation software to streamline bids.
• Analyze bid results and market trends to refine strategies.
• Present cost proposals to clients and senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Negotiation

Problem solving

Education

Degree in Construction Management or QS/Engineering

Tools

PlanSwift

Sage Estimating

Accubid

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the Construction sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Remote Lead Estimator . This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere in South Africa while playing a crucial role in securing new business opportunities. You will be responsible for developing accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for a variety of construction projects, leading a team of estimators, and ensuring competitiveness and profitability. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional analytical skills, a deep understanding of construction costs and materials, and proven leadership experience in the field of construction estimation. This role is perfect for a seasoned professional looking to contribute their expertise remotely to major projects across South Africa , including those in the Cape Town region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the estimation process for diverse construction projects, from tender submission to contract award.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs.
• Review project plans, specifications, and tender documents to identify scope and requirements.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and procurement teams to ensure estimate accuracy and completeness.
• Mentor and guide a team of junior estimators, providing technical expertise and quality control.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain competitive pricing.
• Perform risk assessments and contingency planning for project cost estimations.
• Utilize estimation software and tools to streamline the bidding process.
• Analyze bid results and market trends to refine estimation strategies.
• Present cost proposals and justifications to clients and senior management.

Requirements

• A degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in construction cost estimation, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Proven experience in estimating a wide range of construction projects (e.g., commercial, industrial, residential).
• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, materials, costs, and market conditions.
• Proficiency with industry-standard estimating software (e.g., PlanSwift, Sage Estimating, Accubid).
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple estimates simultaneously in a remote setting.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Understanding of contract types and tender processes.

Benefits

• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible hours.
• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and remote leadership.
• Performance-based incentives and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and continued learning.
• Be part of a forward-thinking company driving innovation in remote construction management.