Estimator

Leighs Construction is a proudly New Zealand, family-owned business with a strong reputation for delivering complex, high-quality commercial projects across the country. With a commitment to excellence, long-term partnerships, and a people-first culture, Leighs continues to shape skylines and strengthen communities.

The construction sector is beginning to show signs of renewed momentum as we move toward 2026. In Auckland and Christchurch, increased stability in pricing, improved supply chain conditions, and a more optimistic economic outlook are contributing to a stronger environment for major commercial projects. As activity ramps up and competition for high-quality delivery partners continues, robust and reliable estimating capability is more important than ever.

Leighs is well positioned to leverage this next cycle of growth, continuing to secure meaningful and transformational projects throughout New Zealand.

More about the role

As an Estimator at Leighs, you will play a pivotal role in the tendering and bid process, working to produce accurate, competitive, and well-considered estimates for major commercial construction projects.

You will take full ownership of allocated tenders - managing all documentation, analysing risks, engaging with subcontractors, and developing pricing that reflects both commercial competitiveness and construction practicality. Your work will influence early project success and support Leighs' commitment to delivering high-quality built environments.

Applications are strictly to be submitted to our recruitment partner Assemble: Submit Application

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing accurate measurements, pricing, and subcontractor assessments.
• Managing tender documentation, drawings, and specifications.
• Identifying risks within tenders and ensuring these are effectively assessed and mitigated.
• Collaborating on cost analysis and value management initiatives to maximise profitability and enhance project viability.
• Working with subcontractors to secure competitive pricing and ensure quality contributions to each submission.
• Supporting procurement activities including sourcing, assessing, and letting subcontractor packages.
• Contributing to monthly tender reporting and supporting smooth transition of tenders to the commercial and operational teams.
• Actively engaging in Leighs' Health, Safety, Environmental, and Sustainability initiatives.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a professional who brings strong technical capability, excellent communication skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. You will enjoy working collaboratively with both internal teams and external partners and be comfortable managing a busy workload with autonomy.

The successful candidate will ideally bring:

• A qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction, or equivalent experience.
• 3–5+ years' experience in estimating for commercial construction projects.
• Proficiency with electronic tendering systems.
• Strong analytical skills with a methodical and meticulous approach.
• Sound commercial judgement and confidence in decision-making.
• Proven experience managing multiple tenders or projects simultaneously.
• Advanced stakeholder engagement capability, with confidence in negotiations.
• Excellent documentation management, version control, and organisational skills.
• A customer-focused mindset and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• A positive, solutions-focused attitude, especially when navigating challenges during the bid process.

Why Join Leighs?

Leighs offers the stability and values of a family-owned business combined with the scale and capability of a national construction leader. You will be part of a team that values integrity, collaboration and delivering work to be proud of.

This is an exciting, career-defining opportunity for a competent construction professional who is ready to step up and shape the next phase of Leighs' North and/or South Island success story.

Apply now or contact Sam Calvert on or to discuss further. All applications will be considered and processed by Assemble Recruitment only.

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Permanent Full Time

Job no: LDAN50158

Location: Christchurch

Closing Date: Friday, 2 January 2026