An offshore estimator does the measurement and pricing work behind your tenders: quantity takeoffs, building up rates from your supplier pricing, collating subcontractor quotes and preparing tender documents for your review. They work your business hours from our Manila delivery centre, in your estimating software, as part of your team. Australian builders typically save between 50 and 75% against an equivalent local hire. The role suits contractors who are turning down tenders because there are not enough hours to price them.
Core Responsibilities
Quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications.
Rate build ups using your supplier and labour pricing.
Subcontractor quote requests, follow up and comparison.
Tender documentation and submission preparation.
Variation pricing during delivery.
Estimate templates and cost database upkeep.
Scope gap and clarification lists for review.
Skills and Background
Software. Experienced in Cubit, Buildxact, CostX, Bluebeam and Excel based estimates.
Trade Knowledge.. Understands construction sequences and methods, so quantities are measured the way the work is built.
Australian tender formats. Familiar with how Australian tenders are structured and submitted.
Accuracy under deadline. Tender weeks are tight, and errors cost margin.
Organisation. Keeps subcontractor quotes, clarifications and versions tidy so nothing slips.
Why This Role Works Offshore
Takeoffs are screen work.
More tenders, same senior team.
Tender peaks stop costing overtime.
Continuity protects your rates.
When It Is Not The Right Fit
The commercial judgement stays local. Margin, risk allowances, supplier relationships and the final number belong with your senior estimator or director. If you need site visits, measure ups on site or face to face negotiation with subcontractors, that is a local role. Offshore estimating works when someone senior reviews and owns the price.
Tools We Use
Cubit
Buildxact
CostX
Bluebeam
Procore
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft 365
From first call to first day in four steps.
Tell us what you need
We source and vet
You interview and choose
We onboard and support
Start Building Your Team!
Frequent Inquiries
Can an offshore estimator price Australian labour and materials?
They build the takeoff and the estimate using your rates and your supplier pricing, and prepare a tender ready document. Local market judgement, margin and the final number stay with your senior estimator, who reviews and owns the price.
Which trades and project types do they cover?
We place estimators across residential, commercial, civil and specialist trades, including fire services, concrete and formwork, and electrical. Tell us your work and we will match the experience.
Which software do they use?
Cubit, Buildxact, CostX and Bluebeam are the most common, alongside Excel. Your estimator works in your licences and your templates.
How do tender deadlines work across time zones?
Manila is two to three hours behind the east coast, so your estimator works your full day. Tender deadlines are handled in real time, not overnight.
How quickly can we have someone started?
Typically 5 to 15 days from the brief to a hire. We source and vet, you interview and choose, and we handle onboarding and equipment.