Senior Estimator Type: On Site, Full-timeLocation: Our client is a respected heavy civil contractor with deep roots in the Calgary market, building roads, infrastructure, and site works for municipal, provincial, and private sector owners throughout Southern Alberta.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced estimator who wants to lead. You will own the tender process from chance to submission, guide and develop a team of estimators, and directly influence which projects the company pursues and how it wins them.
Reporting to the Pre-Construction Manager, you will lead the estimating function, pursuing new opportunities, building competitive pricing, and making sure every bid is accurate, well-reasoned, and submitted on time. You will also act as the link between pre-construction and operations, setting projects up for success from the moment they are awarded.
Building the Estimate Develop comprehensive, accurate cost estimates for heavy civil and infrastructure projects.
Review drawings, specifications, and contract documents to define scope and uncover project requirements.
Complete quantity takeoffs and price labour, equipment, materials, trade partners, and indirect costs.
Assess project risk across schedule, utilities, geotechnical conditions, environmental factors, and procurement, and price contingency and escalation accordingly.
Bring forward alternative approaches and value engineering ideas that strengthen pricing without sacrificing quality.
Interpret tender packages and contract terms to identify obligations, risks, and opportunities.
Solicit and evaluate quotes from subcontractors and suppliers, building a dependable network of trade partners.
Present estimates and bid strategy to senior leadership for review and approval.




Support RFP and proposal responses with technical and pricing input.
Keep cost databases, production rates, and historical records current and reliable.
Coach and develop junior estimators, reviewing their work for accuracy and consistency.
Partner with contract administration to keep the bid schedule and estimate log up to date.
Work with operations and project leaders to pressure-test assumptions, methods, and savings opportunities before bids go out.
Lead turnover meetings with project managers and superintendents so awarded work starts with a clear plan.
Close the loop after projects wrap up, comparing estimated and actual performance to sharpen future pricing.
Building Relationships Represent the company at pre-bid meetings, site walks, and industry events.
Champion a safety-first culture and support incident-free operations, including proactive reporting of hazards, near misses, and quality concerns.
Conduct all work in line with the company’s ethics standards and policies.
Education &

Experience:
Post-secondary education in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.10+ years of construction estimating experience, preferably in heavy civil, roadwork, or infrastructure.
A solid understanding of public and private sector procurement and competitive tendering.
Experience mentoring other estimators or leading an estimating team.
Technical

Skills:
In-depth knowledge of heavy civil construction methods, materials, and production.
Strong command of estimating software; hands-on experience with HeavyBid, HeavyJob, or other HCSS products is a definite asset.
Excellent numerical and analytical ability, with a sound approach to risk.
Occasional travel and overtime as project needs require.
Must comply with company policies, including drug and alcohol testing requirements. #

📌 Estimator Senior/Construction (Winnipeg)
🏢 ECL Group of Companies
📍 Winnipeg