Construction Estimator (Intermediate)

DILFO; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Dental Benefit plan

Group RRSP matching plan

Employee Assistance Program with tele-

Wellness days

Good Life Fitness program

Discretionary bonus program

Job summary

DILFO, an Ottawa-based HVAC, plumbing, and building systems contractor, is seeking an Intermediate Estimator to independently manage tenders and cost estimates while supporting proposal development. You will work with internal teams and external partners to ensure accurate, competitive bids.

The ideal candidate has 3–8 years in mechanical/plumbing estimation for ICI or high-rise projects, with proficiency in AutoBid, Excel, and Bluebeam.

Qualifications

• 3–8 years of experience estimating mechanical/plumbing scopes for ICI or high-rise construction projects.
• Proficiency in Trimble AutoBid or similar estimating software.
• Proficient in blueprint and specification interpretation.
• Intermediate to advanced Excel, Bluebeam, and estimating software.
• Familiarity with OBC, SMACNA, ASHRAE, and LEED standards.
• Knowledge of Design-Build and Lump Sum delivery methods.

Responsibilities

• Review drawings and specifications to determine project scope and requirements.
• Complete detailed takeoffs for materials, labour, and equipment.
• Obtain and evaluate subcontractor/supplier pricing and proposals.
• Identify risks, scope gaps, and constructability challenges.
• Support change orders, proposal development, and post-bid project handover.
• Attend jobsite visits, pre-bid meetings, and value engineering sessions.
• Collaborate across estimating, project management, and field teams.
• Represent DILFO with professionalism when dealing with clients and trade partners.

Skills

Detail oriented

Analytical

Collaborative

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

Education

Diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Building Systems, Construction Estimating, or related

Estimating Certificate (asset)

Tools

Trimble AutoBid

Excel

Bluebeam

Estimating software (AutoBid)

Job description

Headcount Type: New

Application Deadline: October 26, 2026

The Company

DILFO is proud to be trusted by the Ontario construction community to deliver the best for our clients’ needs. We design, install, and provide maintenance for HVAC, heating, cooling, refrigeration, and plumbing systems for large scale projects across different industries. Our team of skilled individuals shares a vision of building with integrity and collaboration to bring quality and innovation to our work every day, and we are honoured to have been recognized by the Ottawa Business Journal as one of Ottawa’s Best Places to Work.

The Team

DILFO has a strong team culture that heavily invests in team member wellness and our community. We host regular social events including Pub nights, golf day, pizza Fridays, and more. We are extremely invested in our local community, partnering with the YMCA for the Cycle for Strong Kids and other programs, donating to the Ottawa Food Bank, partnering with Boys and Girls Club Ottawa to create opportunities for young people, and donating to charities our team members support.

DILFO also offers additional benefits including:

• Health and Dental Benefit plan


• Group RRSP matching plan


• Employee Assistance Program that includes virtual medicine


• Fixed number of paid Wellness days


• Corporate program through Good Life Fitness


• Discretionary bonus program

The Role

As an Intermediate Estimator, you will independently manage assigned tenders, analyze project requirements, prepare cost estimates, and support proposal development. You'll collaborate with internal and external partners to ensure every bid reflects DILFO’s standards for accuracy and professionalism. If you’re detail-oriented, proactive, and thrive in a fast-paced environment — we want to hear from you.

Keys Tasks

The Intermediate Estimator’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Review drawings and specifications to determine project scope and requirements


• Complete detailed takeoffs for materials, labour, and equipment


• Obtain and evaluate subcontractor/supplier pricing and proposals


• Identify risks, scope gaps, and constructability challenges


• Support change orders, proposal development, and post-bid project handover


• Attend jobsite visits, pre-bid meetings, and value engineering sessions as required


• Collaborate across estimating, project management, and field teams


• Represent DILFO with professionalism when dealing with clients and trade partners

Education

• Diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Building Systems, Construction Estimating, or a related field.


• Completion of an Estimating Certificate is an asset.

Experience

• 3–8 years of experience estimating mechanical/plumbing scopes for ICI (Industrial, Commercial, Institutional) or high-rise residential construction projects.


• Proficiency in Trimble AutoBid or similar estimating software.

Technical Skills

• Proficient in blueprint and specification interpretation.


• Intermediate to advanced skills in Excel, Bluebeam, and estimating software such as AutoBid.


• Familiarity with OBC, SMACNA, ASHRAE, and LEED standards.


• Working knowledge of project delivery methods (Design-Build, Lump Sum).


• Strong understanding of mechanical and plumbing systems.

What you bring:

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills


• Able to manage multiple deadlines and shifting priorities


• Collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills


• Committed to DILFO’s core values and continuous improvement

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Primarily office-based role with prolonged computer use.

• Sitting for prolonged durations, especially when performing computer-based tasks.


• Climbing stairs as needed.


• Performing tasks in a noisy environment.


• Manual dexterity for tasks such as typing and handling system-related tools or equipment.

• Occasional travel to construction sites for site walkthroughs.


• Must be able to navigate active construction environments when required (PPE provided).

Accommodations for disabilities are available, where needed, upon request.

DILFO uses artificial intelligence as part of the screening process.