Estimator

About the Role:

This is a hands-on major project estimating role, with the opportunity to influence how we shape, price and ultimately deliver some of Northpower’s most significant projects.

Working at the front end of major project opportunities, you’ll collaborate with estimating, engineering, operations, commercial, procurement and leadership teams to develop bids that are competitive, commercially sound and, most importantly, deliverable. The role requires a strong eye for detail while keeping sight of the bigger picture. You’ll review drawings, specifications, methodologies, programmes and commercial requirements and ask the important question: “How are we actually going to build this?” Challenge assumptions, identify risks and opportunities, explore better ways of delivering the work, and bring together the right information to build a robust price and methodologies from first principles. This isn’t estimating from behind a desk. It’s about understanding the work, understanding the numbers and bringing the two together to help us win and deliver the right projects.

Role Responsibilities:

Take ownership of estimates from initial opportunity through to tender submission, working closely with operational, engineering, commercial, procurement and leadership teams. This includes developing first-principles estimates across major construction, EPC and O&M opportunities; reviewing drawings, specifications, scopes, programmes and commercial conditions; developing pricing models, cost plans, cash flows and construction methodologies; and leading quantity take-offs, subcontractor and supplier enquiries, quote analysis and bid evaluations. Identify risks, opportunities, assumptions and exclusions early and ensure they are clearly reflected in the final price. Contribute to bid strategy, reviews and governance processes, engage with clients and suppliers, and work alongside delivery teams to ensure what we price is genuinely buildable. For larger opportunities, there is also the opportunity to step into a Bid Lead role, prepare tender evaluations for senior leadership and the Board, and help shape estimating processes, cost intelligence and capability across the wider business. You may also be asked to support project teams by assessing progress claims using earned value, site productivity and performance measures.A great estimate isn’t just one that wins the work. It’s one that the project team can deliver.

Experience: You’ll be an experienced Estimator with a strong background in construction, infrastructure, energy or major projects, ideally bringing:

-10+ years’ experience in estimating across construction, infrastructure, energy or major projects.

-Strong, first-principles estimating experience across major construction, EPC, O&M or similar contract environments.

-Good knowledge of NZS contract forms, including NZS 3910, with exposure to FIDIC, NEC and other major forms of contract.

-Experience leading complex estimates or bids and coordinating inputs across multiple disciplines.

-Strong commercial awareness and an understanding of how risk, programme, methodology and procurement choices affect project outcomes.

-Advanced Excel skills and confidence using estimating and pricing systems.

-Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, with the confidence to challenge assumptions and engage with senior stakeholders.

-A collaborative approach and the ability to bring people together around a common outcome.

-A relevant degree, National Diploma or equivalent experience in Construction Management, Engineering, Quantity Surveying or a related discipline.

-Candy experience will be highly regarded, along with experience across energy, transmission, utilities or major infrastructure.

What Northpower offers:

Make a real impact across Aotearoa in a stable and future-focused sector. At Northpower, you’ll work on projects that matter while developing your career in an organisation that genuinely cares about its people. You’ll benefit from: -A people-first culture focused on safety, inclusion and wellbeing, supported by EAP and our Kaitiaki peer support network. -Competitive remuneration, including a vehicle for full private use, with flexibility around additional leave and increased employer KiwiSaver contributions.

-Life insurance, preventative health initiatives and discounted group medical cover.

-Health and fitness programmes, including Fitness Passport.

-Discounted fuel and a range of retail discounts.

-Ongoing learning and development with clear career pathways.

-A welcoming, family-friendly workplace where people are encouraged to be themselves.

About Northpower:

Northpower is an electricity and fibre network provider for Whangārei and Kaipara, with more than 60,000 connected customers. We’re one of New Zealand’s largest multi-utility contractors, servicing clients across transmission, distribution, generation, fibre, renewables and commercial sectors.

With more than 1,400 people across 14 locations, we’ve built a reputation for excellence, innovation and delivering commercially viable solutions across electrical and telecommunications design, construction and maintenance.

Apply Now:

No two days will be the same. One day could involve working through a complex tender with the delivery team; the next, engaging with suppliers, challenging a methodology, reviewing commercial conditions or helping shape the strategy for a major project bid.If you’re ready to bring your estimating experience, commercial thinking and curiosity to a team working on significant energy infrastructure opportunities across New Zealand, we’d like to hear from you. Apply via #REQ2126.New Zealand work rights are required for this role. Pre-employment checks will include a criminal history check, drug and alcohol testing, and a medical assessment.