Estimating Assistant

About the Company

MEC NT are proud to be a locally owned and operated business delivering high-quality Electrical and Civil construction solutions across the Northern Territory. From urban infrastructure and Defence facilities to remote community power systems, solar installations, and HV/LV works — our footprint spans Darwin, Katherine, Tennant Creek, Groote Eylandt, and the many communities in between.

With several major Government and Defence projects now underway, we’re growing our team to meet the demand. Our diverse project portfolio and commitment to excellence make MEC NT a trusted name in powering progress across the Territory.

About the Role:

The Estimating Assistant supports the estimating and tendering team in preparing accurate, timely, and competitive cost estimates for construction and services projects. This role focuses on learning the estimating process, undertaking simple take-offs, maintaining pricing data, and assisting with supplier enquiries while developing the skills required to support the Estimator role.

Key Responsibilities:

Estimating & Take-Off Support

• Assist with quantity take-offs from drawings and specifications

• Measure and record quantities using electronic take-off tools

• Populate estimating software (e.g. Simpro) with quantities, labour, and material allowances

• Assist in breaking down estimates into structured cost centres

Tender & Pricing Assistance

• Assist with pricing of materials, labour, plant, and subcontractor works

• Prepare and issue RFQs to suppliers and subcontractors

• Track and compare supplier quotations

Documentation & Data Management

• Ensure drawings, specifications, and revisions are correctly referenced

• Assist with tender submissions, schedules, and supporting documentation

• Maintain orderly electronic filing of estimates and tender records

Coordination & Communication

• Liaise with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal project teams

• Seek clarifications on drawings and specifications as directed

• Support Senior Estimators during tender reviews and post-tender handovers

Learning & Development

• Develop knowledge of construction methods, materials, and Australian Standards

What we're offering:

• Immediate start

• Competitive salary package with growth opportunities

• Work on large scale major projects in both private sector, Government and Defence

• Join a well-established company with a strong pipeline of projects and a great reputation across the NT

• Be part of a supportive, down-to-earth team and enjoy social events, team BBQs, and a strong sense of community

• Training & career progression opportunities

• Weekly pay

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong numerical and analytical ability

• High attention to detail and accuracy

• Logical, methodical approach to work

• Good written and verbal communication skills

• Well organised with the ability to manage multiple tasks

• Proficient with Microsoft Excel and basic estimating software

• Willingness to learn construction systems, pricing, and standards

What we're looking for:

Essential

• Strong administration skills utilizing standard Microsoft suite, Word, Excel

• Good time management skills

Desirable

• Previous exposure to estimating or construction administration

• Familiarity with Simpro, Groundplan, Bluebeam or similar tools