Rollingstock Engineer (Graduate) at Downer Group
In 2009, Downer entered into a Joint Venture with Keolis – the largest private sector French transport group. This Joint Venture was established to operate the Yarra Trams franchise on the Melbourne Tram network. I have been working with the bid team on a contract extension tender that will be submitted to the Victorian Government.
I am responsible for developing the pricing, bottom up risk assessment and the scope of works for all project and maintenance related works on the largest tram fleet: the B, A and Z Class trams. This scope of works is expected to be in in excess of $150 Million. I have also been involved in the development of the pricing and scope of works for the A and Z class trams along with my colleagues.
My engineering scopes must align with strategy developed by the bid managers and executives. Once the scopes of work have been developed it is my job to price these scopes of work for handoff to Downer’s estimator and project submission.
Born in Pakistan, moved to USA at 3 months old, grew up in Washington. Came to Sydney in Primary School and now working in Melbourne.
Completed high school as Dux. Joined university on the Elite Athlete pathway. Received an Engineering Industry scholarship that allowed me to work as an engineer from the get go. Founding Member of a successful Non-Profit Organisation that has been running for 4+ years. Worked for two years in a management consulting role for Small-Medium Enterprises (<$15M annual revenue).
I applied for Downer’s Graduate Program via traditional processes. I have been working here for 16 months. I love sports, people, gaining knowledge, skills and growing as a person.
An engineering background is important when making technical decisions. In saying that, I have often seen people without engineering qualifications undermine their ability to understand engineering concepts. Anyone can learn and understand and follow the processes I follow, though engineers are required for activities that require sign-off/accountability.
Stakeholder engagement is critical. Building rapport, obtaining information in short spans of time. Considering and understanding commercial/legal/safety consequences beyond merely the technical cirle of competence.
I am challenged to deliver a program that will help to improve the quality of life for millions of people in Melbourne. I am able to gain expertise on the world’s largest tram network. I have a key strategic role in the implementation of this multi-billion dollar project. I am required to make multi-million dollar decisions; to create pricing methodologies and project risk assessments.
Bid submissions can be a demanding environment requiring long hours, tight deadlines and a strain of resources. It is challenging though highly rewarding.