# Senior Specialist Cost Estimator at Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is hiring a Senior Specialist Cost Estimator in Brisbane, Australia. Level rates it Little AI ●○○○; you can [apply on Rio Tinto](https://jobsbylevel.com/go/d3899652-1c24-4856-9284-86dc33d47aa1?utm_medium=ai-agent).

AI Level 1, AI centrality 35 out of 100. Brisbane.

## Details

- Company: [Rio Tinto](https://jobsbylevel.com/companies/rio-tinto)
- AI level: AI Level 1 (score 35 out of 100)
- Location: Brisbane
- Posted: October 28, 2026
- Apply: https://jobsbylevel.com/go/d3899652-1c24-4856-9284-86dc33d47aa1?utm_medium=ai-agent
- Free CV review for this job: https://jobsbylevel.com/cv-review?job=senior-specialist-cost-estimator-at-rio-tinto-460a74

## Description

Provide independent cost assurance and commercial insight that strengthens investment decisions across Rio Tinto's portfolio Influence major investment approvals, governance outcomes and portfolio planning while partnering with senior stakeholders and delivery partners A Brisbane or Perth based opportunity, working within a collaborative and values-driven environment We’re Finding Better Ways™ to provide materials the world needs, now and in the future. Our values – care, courage and curiosity – guide how we work and how we treat each other. About the role We are looking for a Senior Specialist Cost Estimator to help the Enterprise Project Management Office (ePMO) deliver robust investment planning, governance and decision-making. In this role, you will provide independent cost and commercial expertise to validate vendor-provided estimates, pricing structures and commercial assumptions, ensuring investment decisions are transparent, defensible and aligned to business objectives. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys influencing complex decisions, applying commercial judgement and partnering with a broad range of stakeholders across major initiatives. What you’ll be doing Reporting to the Senior Manager of Delivery within the ePMO, and working in a collaborative project environment, you will: Validate vendor-provided cost estimates, pricing structures and commercial assumptions for accuracy, completeness and alignment to agreed scope and delivery models Assess cost drivers, estimation methodologies and key assumptions to support informed investment and portfolio decisions Provide independent challenge and cost assurance, identifying risks, opportunities, affordability concerns and estimation bias Support investment approvals, governance forums and stage-gate reviews with high-quality cost assurance insights Ensure estimates meet defined standards for quality, transparency and evidence before progressing through governance processes Partner with project sponsors, commercial teams, procurement, finance, project controls and delivery partners to validate assumptions and improve cost confidence Highlight commercial implications, pricing risks and potential cost exposure early in the lifecycle of initiatives Identify recurring estimation issues and systemic inefficiencies to improve portfolio-wide cost visibility and forecasting capability About you We’re looking for someone whose experience aligns with the key requirements below. You do not need to meet every “helpful for success” item to apply. If you bring relevant experience and are excited by the opportunity, we encourage you to submit an application. Required for Success A commitment to the safety of yourself and your team Advanced expertise in cost estimating, commercial analysis, investment planning, governance and risk management, with the ability to independently review and challenge complex estimates and proposals Demonstrated experience validating third-party cost estimates, reviewing commercial proposals and providing cost assurance within mining, resources, infrastructure, technology delivery or other large-scale capital environments A tertiary qualification in Project Management, Finance, Commerce or a related discipline. Professional estimating or cost engineering certification (such as AACE, ICEC or equivalent) is desirable Experience applying structured estimation methodologies, financial analysis, governance frameworks and project controls practices to support investment decision-making Helpful for Success Experience working with delivery partners, suppliers and contract management teams in complex delivery environments Knowledge of portfolio, programme and project governance processes and stage-gate approval frameworks Exposure to enterprise transformation, digital, technology or major capital investment portfolios Ability to build constructive stakeholder relationships while maintaining independence and objectivity What we offer Be recognised

The description is cut here. Read the full offer: https://jobsbylevel.com/jobs/senior-specialist-cost-estimator-at-rio-tinto-460a74

Source: https://jobsbylevel.com/jobs/senior-specialist-cost-estimator-at-rio-tinto-460a74

## Cite this page

Level. https://jobsbylevel.com/jobs/senior-specialist-cost-estimator-at-rio-tinto-460a74.

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