Estimator
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours
- Usually work in offices and factories, and may travel locally to worksites
- Need to be accurate, organised and communicate well
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Estimate costs for products, projects and services
- Prepare quotes and cost estimates
- Analyse business and financial data
- Budget for products and projects
- Discuss costs and budgets with staff
- Track money and financial details
- Create and arrange financial documents
- Set up business and budget systems
- Plan ways to manage businesses
- Discuss contracts to solve disputes
Outlook
Estimators will continue to be important in construction, infrastructure, manufacturing and engineering projects because organisations need realistic costs before work begins. In New Zealand, housing, transport, water and resilience projects influence demand, although construction activity can change with the economy. Digital estimating software, building information modelling and more detailed sustainability reporting are changing how projects are priced and planned.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong numeracy and attention to detail
- Ability to read plans, specifications and technical information
- Careful cost analysis and problem-solving skills
- Confidence using spreadsheets and estimating software
- Clear communication with suppliers, contractors and project teams
- Good organisation and ability to manage deadlines
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.