Backspace Living – Newcastle, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie,

At Backspace Living, we pride ourselves on creating a positive, supportive environment where people genuinely enjoy coming to work. Over the past decade, we’ve delivered over 500 architecturally inspired homes and earned a reputation as a premium, award-winning builder of custom secondary dwellings. Our small, close-knit team is committed to high-quality, flexible projects and a collaborative culture. We believe a motivated team delivers the best results, and we’re seeking an experienced Construction Manager—who is also comfortable with estimating—to help us reach new heights.

About the Role

As Construction Manager, you’ll act as the “builder before the builder”—the technical expert who reviews and refines project plans, ensures buildability, provides accurate costing, and helps set projects up for success before site commencement. You’ll work closely with our design, sales, and pre-construction teams, providing vital input on construction methodology, materials, and pricing to ensure a seamless handover to our site crews.

Key Responsibilities

- Review project documentation and plans for buildability, compliance, and cost efficiency.

- Prepare accurate cost estimates and tenders for new projects and variations, drawing on technical drawings, site inspections, and specifications.

- Identify construction risks, challenges, or opportunities early and propose practical solutions.

- Collaborate with design, sales, and pre-construction teams to resolve technical queries and ensure all construction details are clear before handover.

- Oversee procurement planning: prepare purchase orders and coordinate with suppliers as needed.

- Track project budgets and provide regular cost updates, supporting value engineering and cost control.

- Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, consultants, and internal teams to ensure a smooth transition from planning to build.

- Contribute to continuous improvement in estimating accuracy, buildability review, and project setup processes.

Qualifications & Skills

- Proven experience in residential construction as an Estimator, Construction Manager, or Project Coordinator.

- Strong technical understanding of construction processes, materials, and local regulatory requirements.

- Demonstrated ability to review plans for buildability and prepare detailed cost estimates.

- Proficient with construction management and estimating software.

- Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small, high-performing team.

- Degree or certification in Construction Management or a related field is highly regarded.

Why Join Backspace Living?

- Be part of an innovative, respected builder known for quality, flexibility, and customisation.

- Join a supportive, close-knit team that values collaboration, positivity, and professional growth.

- Enjoy a role that shapes projects before they hit the ground, making a real impact on quality and client outcomes.

- Contribute to process improvements and the future direction of the business.

- We’re a growing company with exciting opportunities ahead.

If you’re passionate about setting projects up for success and want to play a pivotal part in our clients’ journey, we’d love to hear from you. We value drive and attitude as much as experience—if you’re ready to grow with us, apply now.