Civil Estimator

Synectics Inc.; Calgary; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Synectics Inc. in Calgary is seeking an experienced Civil Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive cost estimates for civil construction projects.

From bid preparation through tender submission, handover, and startup, you will manage the tendering process and coordinate pricing with subcontractors and suppliers. Reporting to the VP of Civil Operations, you will lead take-offs, develop pricing strategies, review drawings and specs, and support project teams to ensure a smooth transition from

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or related field is required.
• 5+ years of estimating experience in civil construction projects is expected.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation, coordination, and submission of competitive tenders for civil construction projects.
• Review drawings, specifications and tender documents to identify requirements, risks and cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with leadership to develop bidding strategies and competitive pricing.
• Perform detailed quantity take-offs, cost analysis and pricing for civil scopes.
• Solicit, evaluate and negotiate subcontractor and supplier quotations.
• Establish strong relationships with owners, consultants, subcontractors and suppliers.
• Identify risks, scope gaps and opportunities to improve methods and cost efficiency.
• Develop value engineering solutions to enhance quality and profitability.
• Coordinate with project management and field teams to transition from estimating to construction.
• Support handover activities and provide estimating input during startup.
• Manage multiple estimating assignments while meeting tender deadlines.

Skills

Estimating

Civil construction

Take-offs

Negotiation

Project coordination

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

Excel

Estimating software

Job description

About The Company

Our client is an established general contractor and developer specializing in a diverse portfolio of construction and development projects, including residential infill and greenfield developments, low- to mid-rise multifamily buildings, commercial construction, and civil infrastructure projects. With projects across Calgary and surrounding municipalities, the company is expanding its presence throughout Alberta and British Columbia.

Our client is an established general contractor and developer specializing in a diverse portfolio of construction and development projects, including residential infill and greenfield developments, low- to mid-rise multifamily buildings, commercial construction, and civil infrastructure projects. With projects across Calgary and surrounding municipalities, the company is expanding its presence throughout Alberta and British Columbia.

A key focus is on preconstruction services, with early involvement in project design and development. Through proactive budgeting, scheduling, and ongoing cost analysis, the team helps clients optimize project value and ensures a smooth transition from planning to construction.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Civil Estimator to prepare accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for civil construction projects. From initial bid preparation through final tender submission, project handover, and construction start-up, the successful candidate will play a key role in managing the tendering process, evaluating project requirements, coordinating subcontractor and supplier pricing, and collaborating with project management and field teams to support successful project delivery.

This position reports directly to the VP of Civil Operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation, coordination, and submission of competitive tenders for civil construction projects.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, and tender documents to identify project requirements, potential risks, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with company leadership to develop effective bidding strategies and competitive pricing.
• Perform detailed quantity take‑offs, cost analysis, and pricing for civil construction scopes.
• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with owners, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Identify potential project risks, scope gaps, and opportunities to improve construction methods and cost efficiency.
• Develop value engineering solutions that enhance project quality, efficiency, and profitability.
• Coordinate with project management and field teams to ensure a seamless transition from estimating to construction.
• Support project handover activities and provide estimating‑related information during construction start‑up.
• Manage multiple estimating assignments simultaneously while meeting strict tender deadlines.

Qualifications And Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of estimating experience within the civil construction industry.
• Demonstrated experience preparing estimates for civil construction projects involving earthworks, underground utilities, and structural concrete.
• Strong understanding of construction drawings, specifications, quantity take‑offs, and cost estimation methodologies.
• Experience reviewing subcontractor and supplier quotations and developing competitive tender submissions.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver accurate estimates within tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and relationship‑building skills.
• Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a combination of relevant education and industry experience.

Working Conditions

Primarily office‑based, with occasional offsite meetings involving subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and other project stakeholders.

Core Values

• Accountability: Take ownership of responsibilities and outcomes while maintaining integrity, transparency, and consistency.
• Greatness: Pursue excellence through continuous improvement, proactive problem‑solving, and a commitment to delivering high‑quality results.
• Healthy Relationships: Build trust and foster collaboration through open, respectful, and effective communication with colleagues and project partners.