Competitive salary packaging with clear progression pathways Join a leading infrastructure contractor delivering major transmission projects Sydney HQ with hybrid flexibility The Role We are seeking a detail-driven HV Substation Estimator with proven experience in high-voltage substations and switchyards. You will lead cost planning and tendering for HV substation projects from 33kV–500kV, ensuring bids are accurate, competitive, and profitable. You should understand AIS vs GIS, primary and secondary protection systems, and be able to identify scope gaps (e.g., missing CTs in BoQs). This role goes beyond numbers - it requires understanding full substation delivery including access roads, logistics, switchgear, protection systems, control rooms, testing and commissioning. Key Responsibilities Prepare cost estimates, BoQs, and submissions for HV substations (greenfield & brownfield), covering primary, secondary, civil, structural, and commissioning works. Review RFTs, specs, SLDs, layouts and identify risks, exclusions, opportunities; raise RFIs. Transformers, switchgear, CBs, CTs/VTs, protection & control, SCADA, earthing, structures, cabling, foundations. Obtain/evaluate supplier and subcontractor pricing; maintain HV cost database. Apply contingencies, assess risk, and identify value engineering opportunities. Align estimates with engineering, procurement, construction methodology and program. Transition successful bids with assumptions and risk registers. Monitor rates, EBAs, escalation trends, supply chain and labour constraints. Required Experience & Qualifications Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying or related field (or trade Cert IV / extensive estimating experience considered). 4 years estimating in power/utilities, including 2 years in Australia on HV substations (33kV–500kV). Strong knowledge of substation design, AIS/GIS, protection schemes, civil/structural and commissioning. Understanding of AN/NZS, IEC, IEEE and utility standards (Transgrid, Powerlink, AusNet, ElectraNet, PAWA NT, Western Power). Experience with Expert Estimator, Candy or similar; advanced Excel; AutoCAD/Bluebeam; exposure to P6/MS Project. Strong commercial experience across EPC, D&C, construct-only contracts; first-principles estimating; AS2124, AS4000, FIDIC, NEC, INCO terms. Desired Attributes Strong attention to detail; thrives under tight bid deadlines Questions scope before pricing; understands winning is not always lowest cost Ability to interpret drawings, PLS-CADD outputs, GIS maps, and construction sequencing Strong negotiation and communication skills Analytical mindset; able to defend assumptions and numbers Strong written skills for tenders and clarifications Driver’s licence and willingness to travel for site visits White Card; utility safety system experience desirable What We Offer Major infrastructure projects supporting Australia’s energy transition Professional development, CPD support, and industry memberships Competitive salary packaging and allowances Sydney HQ with hybrid flexibility and site travel Clear progression to Senior Estimator / Estimating Manager / Commercial leadership Supportive, technically strong team culture focused on safety and excellence We’re an equal opportunity employer. We value technical excellence, but also curiosity and a sense of humour – because some days, you’re just pricing 2km of earthing copper. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
