Project Engineer/Estimator Virtual Assistant

Company Overview

We’re a small group of big thinkers working together like a well-oiled machine.
We much rather work with a few exceptional individuals than a lot of average people.A little bit about our company,
We’re based in Sydney, NSW. We started in 2000 We specialise in Commercial Shop fittings, which involves bringing to life new retail, commercial and medical tenancies in shopping centres.
It includes delivery from beginning when the tenancy is just a shell to a turnkey solution where the tenant has an operational space. We have a focus on joinery with internal capabilities with our in-house joinery factory but take care of the full scale of the build.

Job Summary

The Estimating Virtual Assistant plays a crucial support role within our pre-construction team, ensuring efficient and organised estimation processes. This position is instrumental in managing administrative tasks, organising project documentation, and supporting the Estimator and Pre-Construction Manager with detailed preparation for upcoming projects. The role demands a high level of organisation, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Meeting Coordination: Schedule and coordinate virtual meetings, including pre-construction meetings, bid discussions, and project debriefs, ensuring all necessary participants are informed and prepared.

Deadline Management: Monitor and record project deadlines, providing timely reminders to the team to ensure that submissions and responses are prepared well in advance.

Job Folder Organization: Set up and maintain digital job folders, ensuring that all project-related documents are accurately filed and easily accessible.

Document Preparation and Control: Assist in compiling construction markups and preparing Bills of Quantities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with project requirements.

Contractor Procurement and Management: Source new contractors, evaluate their qualifications, and maintain an up-to-date contractor list, facilitating effective bid processes and project execution.

Administrative Support: Provide comprehensive administrative support to the estimating team, including drafting correspondence and other tasks that contribute to the efficiency of the estimating process.

Follow-Up and Feedback: Organize and manage the collection of feedback from clients and internal teaUpgrade to see actual infombers post-project completion to identify areas for improvement and celebrate successes.

Communication: Act as a point of contact for internal and external queries related to estimation projects, ensuring clear and prompt communication.

Data Management and Analysis: Organize and manage project data, including historical cost data, for easy access and analysis. This can help in making more accurate future estimates.

Market Research: Conduct online research to stay updated on market trends, material costs, and the availability of subcontractors, which can influence project estimates and bids.

Monthly Tender Reporting: Support the creation of tender reports related to projects, such as status, total amount of projects tendered, dollar value, etc.


Estimator Responsibilities

Cost Estimation: Analyze project plans and specifications to prepare accurate cost estimates, including material, labor, and overhead costs.

Bill of Quantities (BOQ): Develop and review Bills of Quantities, ensuring precise calculations for tendering and budgeting.

Supplier & Subcontractor Coordination: Obtain quotes from suppliers and subcontractors, ensuring competitive pricing and alignment with project budgets.

Tendering & Bidding: Prepare and submit competitive tenders, ensuring all documentation is accurate and in compliance with client requirements.

Project Budgeting: Collaborate with the finance and project teams to create and manage budgets based on estimated costs.

Risk Assessment: Identify potential cost risks and propose mitigation strategies during the estimation process.

Variation Management: Track project changes and variations, updating cost estimates and BOQs accordingly.

Value Engineering: Suggest cost-saving alternatives without compromising project quality or scope.

Skills and Qualifications

Technical Proficiency: Strong computer skills and proficiency in PlanSwift, MS Office (especially Excel), and familiarity with construction management software.

Organizational Skills: Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all aspects of work.

Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Proactivity and Initiative: Ability to work independently, take initiative, and proactively address potential issues before they arise.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, or Quantity Surveying.


Experience:

Experience as a Quantity Surveyor is preferred.

Experience in reading and understanding drawings and technical specifications.

Work Environment

The Estimating Virtual Assistant will operate in a dynamic, fast-paced office setting within our pre-construction department.

Collaboration with the Estimator and Pre-Construction Manager is a key component of the role.

This position is fully remote, providing the flexibility to work from home.

The Estimating Virtual Assistant will be part of a supportive virtual team, with regular online meetings and communication channels to stay connected and aligned with the team's goals and projects.

Employment Type, Compensation, and Benefits

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: TBC on Candidate

Benefits:

Professional Development: Opportunities for professional growth, including training sessions, workshops, and seminars.

Application Process

To apply for the Estimator position, please follow the steps outlined below:

Prepare Your Application: Compile your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or portfolios that showcase your experience and skills related to construction estimation.

Submit Your Application: Email your application materials to Upgrade to see actual info include "Estimating VA Application" in the subject line to ensure proper routing.

Resume / CV

Qualifications

Academic Transcript

Past Projects with Photos – If any

Samples of previous work in take-offs/estimating/tendering/BOQ/cost estimate

References

English Test Results which can be completed here: Upgrade to see actual info

Typing Test Results which can be completed here: Upgrade to see actual info

Review Process: Our recruitment team will review applications on a rolling basis. Qualified candidates will be contacted for an initial screening interview.

Interviews: Selected candidates will be invited to participate in one or more interviews. This may include interviews with the Pre-Construction Manager and other key teaUpgrade to see actual infombers, potentially including practical assessments or case studies relevant to the role.

Decision and Offer: Final candidates will be selected based on their interviews and reference checks. An offer will be extended to the chosen candidate, including a detailed overview of the compensation package and benefits.

Onboarding: Upon acceptance, the new Estimator will undergo a comprehensive onboarding process to become acquainted with our team, processes, and projects.

We appreciate your interest in joining Metro Deco and look forward to reviewing your application. For any inquiries regarding the application process or the position, please email us at Upgrade to see actual info