Senior Estimator

Northpower is looking for an exceptional Senior Electrical Estimator to join our Strategic Projects team at a defining moment for Aotearoa's energy future. As the country enters an intergenerational wave of investment in renewables, electrification, and grid modernisation, we are building capability to deliver significant infrastructure projects across our region. In this senior role, you will bring deep expertise in EPC and/or Design & Construct tenders, complex electrical and infrastructure pricing, and strategic bid leadership. You'll own the estimating process from end to end, from first principles costing through to tender submission and Executive approval, ensuring every bid is competitive, commercially sound, and strategically positioned for success. Working at the heart of Northpower's major project pipeline, you'll collaborate across the entire organisation and wider industry ecosystem. This includes close engagement with engineering, delivery, procurement, suppliers, OEMs, business partners, and subcontractors to develop cost effective, safe, and buildable solutions for largescale energy projects.

Key Responsibilities:

-Deliver detailed, first-principles estimates for EPC, construction, and O&M projects

-Prepare tenders, RFQs, and bid submissions with clear cost breakdowns and risk assessments

-Coordinate internal teams and subcontractors to ensure accurate and compliant proposals

-Lead or support bid strategy for large, complex projects

-Develop and implement estimating procedures and best practices across the business

-Provide tender evaluations and approval documentation to Senior Management and Board

-Lead the preparation of detailed and accurate cost estimates for major electrical infrastructure projects, including substations, HV/LV distribution, and renewable schemes.

-Develop firstprinciples pricing, cost models, and risk assessments for EPC and D&C tenders.

-Prepare tender submissions that balance technical accuracy, commercial competitiveness, and project deliverability.

-Drive bid strategy development, identifying opportunities, alternatives, and value-engineering options.

-Coordinate internal technical reviews and ensure estimates meet Northpower's governance standards.

About You:

-10+ years' estimating experience across vertical or horizontal construction

-Experienced with NZS contract suite (NZS3910) and other major contracts such as NEC

-Proven ability to lead estimating teams or influence cross-functional departments

-Strong financial acumen, analytical skills, and commercial awareness

-Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills

-Proficient in Microsoft Office, advanced Excel, and estimation software

Qualifications & Professional Background:

-A relevant engineering qualification (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or related discipline).

-Minimum 5 years' experience in the energy sector preparing bids for large or major projects, and/or delivering largescale projects on site.

-Formal Quantity Surveying qualifications or equivalent commercial/estimating credentials will be seen as an advantage.

-Strong commercial and financial acumen, with a deep understanding of cost drivers, risk allocation, and margin optimisation.

Technical Expertise:

-Proven experience with EPC and/or D&C tenders in the utilities, energy, or infrastructure sectors.

-Solid understanding of construction methodologies and the ability to interpret complex design and technical documentation.

-Familiarity with a range of construction contract types (NZS, NEC, FIDIC, alliancing, etc.).

-Working knowledge of modern estimating, design, planning, and scheduling software.

About Us:

Northpower is one of New Zealand's largest multi-utility contractors, delivering services across the energy and commercial sectors. We are recognised for our excellence and innovation, providing commercially viable solutions in electrical construction, maintenance, and related services. With over 1,400 employees working across 16 locations, we collaborate every day to keep the power on and the lights running for our communities.

Apply Now:

This is an opportunity to work on high-profile projects with a dynamic, growing multi-utility business. You will play a key role in shaping future project works and the company's strategic growth while working in a collaborative, high-performing team environment. Apply now via our career's website using reference #REQ1838. We'll be reviewing applications and interviewing suitable candidates throughout the advertising period, so early applications are encouraged.