estimator/ Contract administrator

About the role

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the estimating and contract administration functions from initial tender through to project completion. This is not a purely office-based estimating position. You will understand construction, read and interpret architectural and engineering documentation, understand subcontractor pricing and work closely with the Director, Project Managers, Site Managers, trades, suppliers, consultants and clients.

Key responsibilities

Estimating & Tendering

• Review architectural, structural, engineering and consultant documentation.

• Prepare detailed and accurate construction estimates for high-end residential projects.

• Complete quantity take-offs and prepare detailed scopes of work.

• Obtain, assess and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.

• Prepare trade packages and tender enquiries.

• Analyse subcontractor quotations and identify inclusions, exclusions and qualifications.

• Identify gaps, discrepancies, omissions and potential construction risks within documentation.

• Develop accurate project budgets and cost plans.

• Prepare detailed tender submissions and pricing schedules.

• Maintain and develop subcontractor and supplier relationships.

Contract Administration

• Prepare and administer construction contracts and subcontract agreements.

• Assist with contract negotiations and project procurement.

• Prepare and manage purchase orders and work orders.

• Manage variations, including pricing, documentation, approval and cost tracking.

• Monitor project costs against approved budgets.

• Maintain accurate project cost reports and forecasting.

• Process and assess subcontractor claims.

• Assist with progress claims and client billing.

• Monitor commitments, invoices and variations.

• Maintain project documentation and contract registers.

Procurement & Trade Management

• Bring an established network of reliable and quality subcontractors where appropriate.

• Develop and expand the company's preferred trade and supplier network.

• Obtain competitive pricing from trusted subcontractors.

• Maintain strong relationships with trades and suppliers.

• Assess subcontractors based on quality, reliability, capacity, pricing and professionalism.

• Ensure subcontractors are appropriately licensed, insured and compliant with company requirements.

• Build a reliable trade base capable of supporting multiple high-end residential projects.

Project & Construction Support

• Work closely with the Project Manager and Site Manager to ensure project budgets and scopes are maintained.

• Attend site meetings where required.

• Assist with procurement and programming of trades and materials.

• Review construction progress against budget and programme.

• Identify potential cost overruns and commercial risks before they become issues.

About you

• Minimum 5 years' experience in estimating and/or contract administration within the building industry.

• Minimum 5 years' experience working for a high-end residential or bespoke residential builder.

• Strong knowledge of the Melbourne residential construction market.

• Strong understanding of residential construction methodologies and sequencing.

• Excellent ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering drawings.

• Strong understanding of subcontractor scopes and trade pricing.

• Experience preparing detailed construction estimates and tenders.

• Experience managing variations and subcontractor claims.

• Strong understanding of construction contracts and contract administration.

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

About us

We are a Melbourne-based high-end residential building company specialising in bespoke new homes, major renovations, extensions and luxury residential projects. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality workmanship, attention to detail and a personalised service to our clients. Due to continued growth, we are seeking an experienced Estimator & Contracts Administrator to join our team.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on high-end bespoke residential projects throughout Melbourne.

• A senior position within a growing building company.

• Direct involvement with the Director and project delivery team.

• Variety across estimating, procurement and contract administration.

• Opportunity to have genuine input into project outcomes and company processes.

• Opportunity to develop and manage the company's preferred subcontractor network.

• Professional and collaborative working environment.

• Competitive salary package based on experience and capability.