Project Engineer/Estimator

About us:

Established in 1958, Culham Engineering is one of New Zealand’s largest privately owned fully integrated project management, fabrication, and construction companies. We have over 67 years’ experience in heavy engineering, petrochemical, industrial, and the construction industry with branches in Whangarei, Kawerau and Auckland.

The Opportunity:

Culham Engineering is seeking an experienced Project Engineer / Estimator to join our team based in Kawerau.

This is a varied and rewarding role that combines project engineering, planning, scheduling, and estimation responsibilities. You will work closely with project teams, workshop personnel, clients, suppliers, and contractors to support the successful delivery of fabrication, maintenance, and construction projects from tender through to completion.

The role is ideal for someone with strong technical capability, commercial awareness, and a passion for delivering quality engineering outcomes in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Prepare and maintain project plans, schedules, forecasts, and progress reports

Support the planning, execution, and close-out of projects

Coordinate drawings, approvals, procurement activities, and QA requirements

Monitor project progress, costs, risks, variations, and deliverables

Liaise with clients, suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders

Conduct project meetings and provide regular reporting

Prepare accurate cost estimates and tender submissions

Obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor pricing

Develop detailed pricing structures for labour, materials, plant, coatings, transport, and subcontract services

Support tender reviews, project handovers, and material procurement following award

Contribute to continuous improvement, quality, health and safety, and environmental compliance initiatives

Essential Qualification, Experience & Skills:

Degree in Structural Engineering, Engineering Design, or equivalent experience in the heavy engineering or structural steel industry

Proven experience in project engineering, estimating, project coordination, or a similar role

Strong understanding of fabrication, construction, and industrial maintenance environments

Experience interpreting engineering drawings and project specifications

Commercially minded with sound contractual understanding

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills

High attention to detail and organisational capability

Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications

Experience with planning and scheduling software such as Primavera or MS Project would be advantageous

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a demanding environment

What’s on offer:

Permanent Full Time Position

Minimum of 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday

Competitive salary package dependent on skills and experience

Supportive and collaborative team environment

* Opportunity to drive performance and continuous improvement

This position is only open to candidates who are New Zealand residents or who are able to work legally in New Zealand.

If you are interested in joining our team please forward your CV and covering letter to [email protected].

The close date for applications is Friday, 18 September 2026.

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Standards Australia

www.culham.co.nz