Your future role
The Lead Estimator is responsible for preparing accurate, competitive, and profitable cost estimates for mining equipment manufacturing projects. The role involves reviewing customer requirements, engineering drawings, technical specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOM) to determine material, labour, manufacturing, subcontracting, logistics, and overhead costs. The Estimator works closely with Engineering, Procurement, Production, Planning, Finance, and Sales to develop commercially sound quotations that align with manufacturing capabilities, project schedules, and targeted profitability.
Role duties:
- Review RFQs, engineering drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOM).
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for materials, labour, fabrication, machining, painting, assembly, subcontract services, logistics, and manufacturing overheads.
- Develop Material Take-Offs (MTOs) and labour hour estimates.
- Evaluate supplier quotations and subcontractor pricing.
- Perform pricing analysis, including mark-ups, contingencies, and profitability assessments.
- Calculate and validate target EBITDA margin by analyzing estimated revenue against direct costs, manufacturing overheads, and allocated operating expenses to ensure quotations meet the company's financial objectives.
- Identify commercial and technical risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
- Prepare cost breakdowns, commercial proposals, and tender submissions.
- Maintain estimating databases and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Attributes
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline.
- Experience in estimating within heavy fabrication, mining equipment manufacturing, or a similar industrial environment.
- Strong understanding of fabrication, machining, welding, and manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of cost modelling, pricing strategies, and financial performance metrics, including gross margin and EBITDA margin.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, ERP systems, and cost estimating tools.
- Strong analytical, commercial, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Success Measures
- Accurate and timely cost estimates.
- Competitive and profitable tender submissions.
- Estimate accuracy within agreed variance from actual project costs.
- Achievement of target Gross Margin and EBITDA Margin for awarded projects.
- Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Continuous improvement in estimating accuracy, bid win rate, and overall commercial performance.
We offer the successful candidate
- A supportive, dynamic, professional, and evolving company.
- Growth and career opportunities working in a global organization.
At Austin Engineering our people are valued as vital members of our diverse and expanding workforce. We provide a supportive and inclusive team environment, where learning and development are encouraged and promoted.
