Construction estimator job description

The construction industry has a diverse range of roles, and none is more important than a construction estimator. But, what exactly is a construction estimator? A construction estimator's main responsibility is to determine an estimated cost of a construction project from a list of materials and labour.

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

You generally need a qualification in building and construction estimating. Vocational Education and Training (VET) is a common study pathway to an entry-level position and will provide the core skills and knowledge required.

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.
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

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

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

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

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.

Certificate IV in Building Project Support (CPC40320)

This formal qualification reflects the roles of estimators and contract administrators in the building and construction industry. In this course you can expect to learn skills in preparing estimates, processing subcontractor claims and preparing head and subcontracts for building and construction projects.

Occupational outcomes for this course can include:

Building estimator
Building scheduler
Contract administrator

This course is available to be studied through an Apprenticeship. The fees and duration of an Australian Apprenticeship will depend on your state. View more information on this here.

Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (CPC50220)

Study method In-class Online

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..

Related subjects

Jobs in the construction industry that require highly organised team players are not limited to construction estimation. The construction field is vast, and other professions always need enthusiastic new workers.

A job as a construction estimator might be precisely what you are looking for. If so, there is a huge list of articles, resources and tips with insights into a career in construction available.