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.

ISO 9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001

Standards Australia

www.culham.co.nz