Junior Estimator/ Cost Planner (Houston, Texas, USA)

Are you ready to take the next step in your estimating career and gain exposure across the full bid lifecycle? Join our growing team in Houston and play a key role in delivering accurate, competitive, and high-quality tender submissions.

About the Role

As a Junior Estimator / Cost Planner, you will play a key role in supporting the preparation of accurate, competitive, and high-quality tender submissions across a variety of projects.

Working closely with Bid Coordinators, Business Development Managers, engineers, manufacturing teams, and fellow estimating professionals, you will assist in developing cost estimates, conducting quantity takeoffs, sourcing supplier pricing, and contributing to successful bid submissions.

You will also collaborate with the Global Head of Estimating and other business leaders across our international operations, providing valuable exposure to global estimating practices, cost planning methodologies, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization.

This position reports directly to the Vice President, Americas.

What You Will Do

You will

• Assist in preparing accurate and competitive cost estimates for tender submissions
• Review drawings, specifications, and tender documentation to understand project scope and requirements
• Perform quantity takeoffs and support detailed cost planning activities
• Gather and analyze pricing from local suppliers, subcontractors, and trades to support successful project delivery
• Work closely with Bid Coordinators and Business Development Managers to align estimates with bid strategies and submission deadlines
• Support the development of cost plans, budgets, and tender documentation
• Liaise with internal stakeholders to ensure scope clarity and consistency across submissions
• Collaborate with AAT manufacturing facilities to obtain accurate product pricing
• Identify potential cost risks, scope gaps, and value engineering opportunities
• Maintain and update cost databases, benchmarks, and supplier information
• Assist with post-bid reviews and contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating processes
• Support project teams with change orders and other cost-related activities on active projects, as required

What You Bring

You have

• Strong numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• The ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and tender documentation
• Strong knowledge of end-to-end building construction, enabling the interpretation of limited project information into practical construction methodologies, cost estimates, and tender submissions
• Knowledge of quantity takeoffs, cost estimating, and cost planning principles
• A keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy
• The ability to analyze pricing information and identify discrepancies, risks, and opportunities
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills
• Commercial awareness and sound judgment when working with incomplete or evolving project information
• A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively within cross-functional and international teams
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the ability to learn estimating and cost management systems

Qualification, Skills and Experience

You have

• 3–5+ years of experience in estimating, cost control, quantity surveying, or a construction-related role
• Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and project sequencing
• Experience interpreting technical drawings and specifications
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with estimating software
• Exposure to tendering and bid management processes
• Strong analytical, numerical, and organizational skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to build strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline (or currently working towards one), or demonstrated similar experience within the construction industry working for organizations such as Builders/ General Contractors, concrete companies, structural steel companies, carpentry, or similar subcontractor trades.

Why Join Us?

You will gain exposure to the full bid lifecycle while working alongside experienced estimating and commercial professionals. This role provides a structured pathway toward becoming a fully independent Estimator, with opportunities to progress into Senior Estimator, Bid Management, Commercial, and leadership roles as the business continues to grow.

If you are looking to take the next step in your estimating career and thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented environment, we encourage you to apply.

About AAT

Advanced Aquarium Technologies (AAT) is a global specialist in the design, engineering, construction and operation of world-class public aquariums. From concept development through to commissioning and long-term operations, AAT delivers integrated, turnkey solutions that bring complex aquatic environments to life.

Headquartered in Queensland, Australia, with operations across Asia and the Americas, AAT has delivered landmark aquarium projects in more than 30 countries, including iconic destinations such as national aquariums, oceanariums, zoo exhibits and large-scale marine attractions.

What sets AAT apart is the breadth of its in-house capabilities — spanning design, engineering, acrylic manufacturing, life support systems, themed environments and ongoing operational services. This vertically integrated model enables the company to deliver highly specialized projects with exceptional quality, reliability and performance.

Our work helps create immersive experiences for millions of visitors while supporting marine conservation education, wild animal rescue and rehabilitation, research and animal wellbeing around the world.

How to Apply

Join a team that works across borders, functions, and industries. Apply via Indeed and tell us how your skills, experience, and mindset will help you contribute to our global estimating and project delivery teams.

Diversity & Inclusion

At AAT, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and success. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their best work.

Pay: $68,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience

• Construction estimating: 1 year (Required)

Location

• Houston, TX 77073 (Required)

Work Location: In person