Estimator

About the company

LAWRIE is a design, development, and construction firm that specialises in architecturally led residential builds. The business is focused on careful execution, considered design, and consistently high standards at every stage of delivery.

The team works in a hands-on way and values accuracy, ownership, and a disciplined approach to doing the work properly. As the company expands, it is looking for an experienced Estimator with a solid track record in pricing custom homes to join the commercial team and support the delivery of standout projects.

The opportunity

This position contributes to the commercial performance of projects from early feasibility right through to completion. Rather than being limited to pre-construction estimating, the role covers the full project lifecycle. You will handle estimating and tendering before construction starts, then move into commercial management once work is underway. The objective is to make sure each project is priced correctly, managed commercially, and delivered successfully. This is a chance to become an important part of a growing business where your decisions have a direct impact on project results and overall business performance.

Key responsibilities

• Develop early-stage budgets and detailed cost estimates for architecturally designed residential projects.
• Carry out precise quantity measurements and review architectural, structural, and engineering documents in detail.
• Prepare, distribute, and assess tender packages for subcontractors and suppliers, negotiate rates, and oversee procurement.
• Spot commercial risks, value engineering opportunities, and cost-reduction ideas throughout the project lifecycle.
• Produce project budgets, cost plans, and contract paperwork to support effective project delivery.
• Oversee subcontractor and supplier contracts, purchase orders, and procurement during construction.
• Price, prepare, and manage client variations, change events, and subcontractor variations.
• Track budgets, commitments, forecasts, and cash flow to support strong commercial outcomes.
• Work alongside Operations and Site Supervisors to provide commercial input from project start to finish.
• Keep estimating databases, cost benchmarks, and commercial systems up to date, while helping improve estimating and contract administration processes.

Ideal candidate

The preferred applicant will hold a qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field.

You should have at least 5 years of experience estimating architecturally designed custom homes in Australia, and ideally have worked across both estimating and contract administration.

A strong grasp of residential construction methods, procurement, and contract administration is important, along with excellent measurement and quantity take-off capability.

You will also need commercial awareness, a sharp eye for risk and opportunity, strong organisation, clear communication, good negotiation skills, and the ability to manage several projects at once.

Why join LAWRIE

• Be involved in projects from feasibility through to final completion.
• Work on architecturally designed luxury homes and boutique developments.
• Join a growing business where you can genuinely influence commercial results and overall performance.
• Be part of a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
• Help develop and refine the company’s commercial systems and processes.
• Receive a competitive salary package, based on experience.

How to apply

Interested candidates should send their resume together with a brief cover letter explaining their experience and why they are suited to the role.

Applicants must also include details of at least two architecturally designed residential projects they have estimated, including the approximate project value and their specific role in each project.