About The Business

Design & Build has partnered with an established, reputable builder specialising in small to medium‑scale government projects (education, community, etc.) who is seeking an experienced Estimator to join their team.

- Trusted, small‑to‑mid‑scale head contractor with a long‑standing history and a strong culture of teamwork, integrity and hands‑on delivery.
- Predominantly operating across live environments, restricted access sites and technically complex institutional projects (education, government, heritage).
- Committed to excellence in estimating, tendering and early contractor involvement (ECI) phases.

The Role

As Estimator, your primary focus will be to deliver accurate, competitive and timely tenders for institutional work.

- Leading the full estimating process from RFPs through to submission: reviewing drawings/specifications, quantity take‑offs, subcontractor pricing, supply/plant market checks, risk assessment and margin setting.
- Preparing comprehensive tender documentation: cost plans, provisional sums, allowances, build‑up schedules, assumptions and clarifications.
- Collaborating with design, commercial, operations and site teams to ensure alignment of scope, risk and constructability.
- Analysing historical project costs and benchmarking for continuous improvement.
- Engaging with subcontractors and suppliers to secure competitive and compliant offers, and negotiating pricing terms.
- Identifying value‑engineering and cost‑saving opportunities without compromising quality or programme.




- Ensuring continuous monitoring of tender pipeline, maintaining estimating records, and contributing to bid‑review debriefs.

About You

- A proven Estimator, with experience in new build, fit‑out or refurbishment projects.
- At least 2 years' experience working for a Principal Contractor.
- Highly skilled in quantity take‑off, tender cost build‑up and risk analysis in complex environments.
- Comfortable working under tight deadlines with a strong track record of delivering successful submissions.
- Commercially aware: you understand margins, cost drivers, subcontractor market dynamics and how to position bids competitively.
- A strong communicator and collaborator, with the ability to work across teams and build relationships internally and externally.
- A tertiary qualification in construction management, quantity surveying or building is essential. Membership of a relevant professional body is advantageous.

Why Join

- Opportunity to join a business with a longstanding and respected reputation in institutional markets.
- Work on technically compelling projects in live and sensitive environments.
- Strong support and flat structure – you’ll be visible, valued and able to grow your career.
- Competitive salary and benefits aligned with experience.

For any questions relating to this role or other opportunities with D&B; and our clients, please contact Denise Kostoulias on or click apply. Your application will be treated as strictly confidential.

Thanks for your consideration.

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📌 Estimator (Melbourne)
🏢 Design And Build Recruitment
📍 Melbourne