Review: How much does an estimator earn in Australia?

Estimators Earn

Is this the job for you?

Our motto is “More Done, More Fun.” We know estimators like to work hard and play hard—and to play hard, you need to be paid well.

But how much does an estimator actually earn in Australia? Is it enough to buy a house in Rose Bay, or are we looking at a two-bedroom flat at the dodgy end of Rockhampton?

We did some research a couple of years ago, and came out with some averages. Since then we’ve reviewed the numbers based on up to date information and this is what we’ve got:

“The estimated total pay for a Estimator is $84,000 per year, with an average salary of $80,000 per year.”

Those are the figures from Glassdoor, based on 521 salaries submitted.

That’s not even going to get you a renovated highset in Brisbane’s inner suburbs, but we kept looking.

Indeed is a little more optimistic, and surveyed a wider pool.

“The average salary for a estimator is $100,437 per year in Australia. 941 salaries reported, updated at 18 August 2024”

Seek gives a range of $95-$115K – this is “based on full-time salary ranges disclosed by employers on SEEK job ads… listed in the last three months.” Not too shabby, and backed up by data from Talent.com:

“Based on 3,578 salaries: The average estimator salary in Australia is $115,000 per year or $58.97 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $90,000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $170,000 per year.”

Now we’re talking. And if you average those 3 approximates you get $99,812, which is $10K more than our calculated average from 2 years ago. And the potential to earn more is definitely present in the industry.

In the US, base salaries for estimators can vary wildly. Some large general contractors can offer salaries easily in the six figures (with bonuses!) to estimators with a medium amount of experience in other major American cities.

Estimating in the US can differ greatly in process compared to Australia. However, we have talked to some of the most experienced estimators in the country and they all agree that time out in the field is a must, to get a feel for site circumstances and the equipment used.

If you think estimating is the career for you, rest assured that the earning potential is there! And with all the recent government investment in infrastructure, civil engineering and construction companies will be busy for some years to come!

NOTE: Reported figures may change from the time of publication.