Chief Estimator

MatchBox Consulting Group; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking a Chief Estimator for a construction company specializing in commercial projects. The ideal candidate will have over 20 years in commercial estimating, with experience on large bids. Responsibilities include overseeing estimating functions, preparing proposals, and mentoring the estimating team. This role requires strong communication, negotiation skills, and a proven contractor background.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of commercial or industrial construction estimating experience.
• 6+ years managing complex, multi-million-dollar bids.
• Proven general contractor background with a strong network.

Responsibilities

• Lead estimating functions ensuring accuracy and profitability.
• Prepare estimates and proposals aligned with client needs.
• Oversee subcontractor selection and negotiation.

Skills

Commercial construction estimating

Strategic thinking

Strong communication

Negotiation skills

Leadership

Job description

Overview

MatchBox Consulting Group is looking for a ChiefEstimator for a construction company that specializes in commercial tenant improvements and commercial new build projects in the lower mainland. The company has been recognized as a Top 70 employer as well as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies.

Responsibilities

• Lead all estimating functions—ensuring accuracy, completeness, and profitability of bids
• Prepare estimates, preliminary schedules, and proposals aligned with client needs and target returns
• Oversee subcontractor and vendor selection, negotiation, and contract finalization
• Participate in pre-bid strategy and client presentation meetings
• Mentor, coach, and develop the estimating team—building technical expertise and career grow
• Transition successful tenders to operations with clear risk and opportunity analysis
• Track and report estimating metrics; continuously refine processes for greater efficiency

Qualifications

• 20+ years of commercial or industrial construction estimating, with 6+ years on complex, multi-million-dollar bids
• Proven general contractor background (not third-party PM or developer) with strong GTA network in development, design, and trades
• Strategic thinker—curious and driven to identify new opportunities and grow market share
• Recognized leader and mentor—trusted authority among peers and teams
• Strong communicator and negotiator—effective with clients and internal stakeholders alike
• Technically fluent in specifications, blueprints, cost-modeling methods, and compliance standards
• Entrepreneurial mindset—ambitious, proactive, and committed to finding smarter, safer, faster ways to win work

For more current job opportunities, Follow MatchBox at linkedin.com / company / matchbox-recruitment /

About MatchBox

Headquartered in downtown Vancouver and serving clients nationally, MatchBox is one of the leading recruitment and solutions firms that specializes in the fields of IT & Technology, Engineering & Technical, Real Estate & Construction, and Accounting & Finance. We offer unrivaled expertise with our team's extensive experience in the recruitment and professional services industry. We are dedicated to building great connections and creating strong opportunities within the workforce and the labor market.

Equal Opportunities

MatchBox is committed to providing equal opportunities for all applicants. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including members of minority groups such as racialized individuals, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and Indigenous peoples. It is a priority for us that all candidates are treated fairly and without discrimination. Our recruitment teams receive ongoing training on using objective criteria for evaluating candidates and other related topics to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Work Permits

Please note that we require all interested candidates to obtain the necessary work permits from the Government of Canada prior to submitting an application.This position is open exclusively to individuals residing in Canada and legally authorized to work in Canada. Applications not meeting these criteria will not be considered.

Further Consideration

We receive a high volume of applications and are only able to contact candidates who are selected for further consideration.

Find out more at www.matchboxhr.com