Design & Construct Estimator - HVAC

At D&E Air Conditioning, we believe great businesses are built through great people, strong relationships and a genuine connection to the communities they operate in. As we begin our journey into Aotearoa New Zealand, we’re looking to connect with talented local professionals who want to help shape what comes next.

This is an opportunity to join D&E from the beginning and play a genuine role in shaping our future in New Zealand. If you’re an experienced HVAC or mechanical services professional looking for an opportunity to be part of something new, we’d love to hear from you.

About The Role

This is more than a traditional estimating role. You’ll be involved from the early stages of a project, combining your HVAC technical knowledge, engineering capability and commercial understanding to develop practical, cost-effective solutions for a diverse range of projects.

Working closely with clients, consultants, engineering, drafting and project teams, you’ll take ownership of the estimating process—from interpreting project requirements and developing design solutions through to cost planning, tender submissions and client engagement.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Prepare accurate and detailed cost estimates for HVAC and mechanical services projects.
• Review architectural and engineering documentation to develop practical Design & Construct solutions.
• Undertake budget estimates, quantity take-offs and detailed cost analysis.
• Complete heat load calculations and air and water-side pressure drop calculations.
• Select equipment to meet design, performance and spatial requirements.
• Work closely with clients and consultants to understand design intent, project requirements and budget expectations.
• Obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations.
• Prepare comprehensive tender submissions and supporting documentation.
• Identify value management opportunities and alternative solutions that deliver better project outcomes.
• Attend site inspections, tender interviews and contract review meetings.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants and key stakeholders.

About You

You’ll be a commercially minded and technically capable estimator who understands that successful Design & Construct estimating requires more than simply pricing a set of drawings.

You’ll ideally bring:

• Proven estimating experience within HVAC, mechanical services or the broader construction industry.
• A strong understanding of HVAC systems, engineering principles and construction methodologies.
• The ability to interpret architectural, mechanical and technical documentation.
• Experience developing Design & Construct solutions and estimating projects from concept or preliminary documentation.
• Strong cost planning, quantity take-off and analytical skills.
• The ability to identify value engineering opportunities while maintaining design intent and project requirements.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills when working with clients, consultants, suppliers and internal teams.
• Excellent organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tenders and competing deadlines.
• A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Engineering or a related discipline would be highly regarded.

Why Join Us?

We’re proud of the culture we’ve built — one that values teamwork, accountability, innovation, and genuine collaboration. We foster an environment where ideas are welcomed, contributions are recognised, and people are empowered to take ownership and grow their careers.

What We Offer

• Collaborative, team-oriented, and people-focused culture
• Long-term career growth and professional development opportunities
• Competitive salary package and employee benefits
• Opportunity to work with skilled industry professionals in a high-performing environment

D&E Air Conditioning is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with fairness, dignity and respect. We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, cultural background or other characteristics protected under New Zealand law. Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.