A day of an Estimator starts with a cup of coffee!
S-san, can you briefly describe your job?
I am responsible for the overall estimation of building automation systems that controls the air conditioning of an entire building using a computer for automation, labor saving, and other controls. My department handles HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems that control cooling and air conditioning, systems that control firefighting equipment, and DDC (Direct Digital Controller) systems that control and regulate air conditioning and ventilation equipment. When the US military requests procurement of equipment, facilities, and devices needed for these systems, my main role is to carefully examine the details, prepare a quotation, and provide it to them. My most important job is to make sure I have my morning coffee at the beginning of the day.
Utilizing experience in HVAC services gained worldwide
Why did you choose to work at AEC?
空調関係の仕事は20数年前に友だちのエアコン修理屋の仕事を手伝って、そこからずっとシンガポール、タイ、バハマ、マレーシア、インドネシア、石垣島などのリゾート施設に設置してある空調機器のメンテナンスをしてきましたが、なぜか沖縄本島に来てからはゴルフコースで働きました。だけど、やはり経験のある職種で働きたいと思ったところAECで募集があって応募をして今に至ります。最近ようやく基地に入れるパスを1つもらえたので、今後は現場にも入ってシステムを制御するためのプログラミングも構築できるようになっていきたいですね。
There’s no end in learning. AEC is a meaningful workplace with many learning opportunities.
What are some things you have noticed since joining AEC?
I used to maintain HVAC equipment for resorts, whose work content is very different from my current one, which is focused on equipment on US Military Bases. There’s no end in learning what I need to absorb as new systems and equipment are constantly being introduced. There is a lot to learn every day, so it's a meaningful environment.
When do you find your job enjoyable and at what kind of moment do you get a sense of accomplishment in working?
Although I was occasionally involved in estimating in my previous jobs, it was not until I joined AEC that estimating became my main task. It is rewarding to be involved in larger projects here and to be able to work on projects whose contents are totally different from one to another. Control panels and other devices we use are different for each project, and it’s interesting to learn about them. Specifications also differ depending on the base facility and the project, and the materials to be prepared also vary. No two jobs are the same, and our work is never repetitive. This is also an aspect of my job that I find enjoyable.
AEC is supportive of male workers performing childcare, and it is a family-friendly company with high level of employee satisfaction.
What do you like about working at AEC?
I find the flexibility of work styles appealing, as I have a family. If something urgent comes up, I can get paid leaves in hourly units, and if a family member gets sick, everybody here is understanding and gladly covers for my absence. Everyone is supportive of male workers taking childcare leave and female workers taking maternity leave, and I think the Company is family-friendly and has a high level of satisfaction. You can have a good work-life balance because you are completely free on weekends. In my case, I prioritize taking care of my child on my days off, but when I'm not doing that, I go surfing.
S-san, what kind of person would be a perfect fit to work in your team?
As this job requires the ability to work as a team, someone who is cooperative is ideal for this role. The ability to communicate with teammates, and the mindset of wanting to learn by asking questions is important. As you will be surrounded by people from various countries, your English will improve inevitably. In addition, as we provide support in both English and Japanese in the Fire Department, you don’t have to worry about your language ability.
Can you leave a message to potential job applicants?
Since AEC has many big projects, it will enable you to gain various experiences and skills. Unlike Japanese companies, I believe it will be a fun experience to work in an international environment. Especially, as my department functions in a specialized field, if you work hard, you can gain knowledge and experience in a short amount of time. AEC may be the only company in Japan that can handle a project of this scale. I hope you can gain knowledge and experience at AEC.
Schedule for one day
- AM 7:30 Work Commences/Arrive at work Site
- Morning Coffee
- Confirmation of bids that are about to be due
- Check deadlines for materials
- Check and prepare for weekly work
- PM 12:00 Lunch-break
- PM13:00 Collect and summarize equipment quotations
- Meeting
- Confirm schedule
- Meeting with Project Manager
- PM 17:00 End of a Workday/Leave for Home