Construction estimator job description
Where we source our data
Let's get real. Job information online can often be overly optimistic — conveniently glossing over the raw bits. But when you're making decisions about your future, you need all the facts.
That's why we anonymously surveyed construction estimators about their job, with hopes of getting an honest insight into what it's really like.
While we did our best to ensure respondents were Australians and verified their job titles with proof of employment, we can't guarantee complete accuracy — or that your experiences in the field will reflect theirs. So, we suggest that you take these insights as a guide only and try to talk to people in the field before making an important decision.
Tasks and responsibilities for a construction estimator
Construction estimators work as an essential part of the process in construction projects and have many responsibilities. They liaise with many other people involved in construction projects to determine the wants and needs of a client and work to establish a reasonable cost estimate to work to.
What do construction estimators do? A construction estimator’s duties can include:
- Collaborating with construction managers, architects and surveyors to plan and develop a budget for building projects
- Using software to calculate the construction cost and time estimates for a project, check subcontractor quotes and submit tenders
- Interpreting plans, regulations and relevant codes of practice
- Negotiating costs with contractors and suppliers
How to become a construction estimator
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Study
Studying and completing a relevant VET qualification like a Certificate IV in Building Project Support (CPC40320) or a Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50220) is a great way to learn the technical and theoretical skills needed to work confidently as an experienced estimator. Study also enhances your chance of future employment.
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Get a White Card
To work on a construction site in Australia, you must have a White Card. These can be gained by completing a short course through an (RTO) and covers workplace safety for construction.
Pathway options
A job as a construction estimator can open you up to other job opportunities in the construction industry or other sectors. The position puts you in contact with other teams of colleagues and other stakeholders and can present opportunities for higher-level jobs in a company.
Junior
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Trade assistant
Most common qualification:
Cert II in Construction (CPC20120) -
Pipelayer
Most common qualification:
Certificate III in Civil Construction (Pipe Laying) (RII30920) -
Road construction worker
Most common qualification:
Certificate III in Civil Construction (Road Construction and Maintenance) (RII30920) -
Traffic controller
Most common qualification:
Certificate III in Civil Construction (Traffic Management) (RII30920)
Mid
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Builder
Most common qualification:
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (CPC40120) -
Electrician
Most common qualification:
Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820) -
Construction estimator
Most common qualification:
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) (CPC40120) -
Building inspector
Most common qualification:
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50220) -
Construction site foreman
Most common qualification:
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50220) -
Contract administrator
Most common qualification:
Certificate IV in Building Project Support (Contract Administrator) (CPC40320)
Senior
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Construction project manager
Most common qualification:
Diploma of Building and Construction (Management) (CPC50320) -
Construction manager
Most common qualification:
Diploma of Building and Construction (Management) (CPC50320) -
Quantity surveyor
Most common qualification:
Bachelor of Construction Management
Explore related qualifications
Studying with an RTO (registered training organisation) is the best way to make sure you are qualified for a role in construction estimation and can do the job in the best capacity. If required, you can combine work and study, and many courses offer flexible learning environments.
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50220)
This course reflects the roles of building professionals who have in-depth knowledge of structural principles, risk management, financial management, estimating and preparing and administering construction contracts. They may select contractors, oversee building work and manage residential and commercial construction projects with the following limitations:
- Residential construction limited to National Construction Code Class 1 and 10 buildings to a maximum of 3 storeys.
- Commercial construction limited to National Construction Code Class 2 to 9 buildings, Type C and B construction.
Occupational outcomes for this course can include:
- Builder
- General Foreperson
- Building Inspector
This qualification can be achieved as part of an Australian Apprenticeship. More information on apprenticeships can be found here.
The average duration of this diploma is 18 months and can be studied full-time or part-time. This course can be delivered online or in a classroom setting..
3 providers offer this course
