Construction Estimator (renovations)

RecruitPod Canada Inc.; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

RecruitPod Canada Inc. in Edmonton, Alberta is seeking a seasoned Senior Construction Estimator with direct GC experience. Lead preconstruction efforts from design review to final bid submission, integrating AI tools to enhance speed and accuracy.

The role emphasizes detailed takeoffs, bid packaging, and trade coordination for complex renovations in occupied facilities. Requires 7+ years GC estimating and strong software proficiency.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of direct estimating experience with a General Contractor.
• Experience pricing institutional renovations or light industrial retrofits.
• Proficiency with 2D/3D takeoff and estimating software.
• Ability to integrate AI tools into estimating workflows.

Responsibilities

• Lead quantity takeoffs, line-item pricing, and bid packages.
• Analyze drawings to identify scope gaps and risks.
• Perform site visits and pre-bid walk-throughs.
• Prepare bid inclusions, exclusions, RFIs, and value-engineering recommendations.
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotes for full coverage.
• Coordinate with trades (MEP, structural) for accuracy.
• Negotiate post-bid trade contracts.
• Use 2D/3D takeoff software and AI tools for rapid cost assembly.
• Maintain internal cost databases and productivity models.
• Lead handoff meetings with Project Managers.

Skills

Estimating expertise

Bid development

AI in estimation

GC coordination

Education

Construction Management or Civil/Structural Engineering degree

Tools

On-Screen Takeoff

Bluebeam Revu

CostX

ProEst

MS Excel

Job description

Location: Edmonton, Alberta

Job Type: Full Time

Job Description:

We are seeking a seasoned Senior Construction Estimator with a proven track record working directly for General Contractors. In this role, you will lead preconstruction efforts from initial design review through to final bid submission and trade handoff. You will evaluate complex renovation scope, manage bid risks in active/occupied buildings, and utilize the latest estimating software and AI tools to drive efficiency and accuracy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead quantity takeoffs, line-item pricing, and scope assembly for competitive bids, design-build, and negotiated renovation projects.
• Analyze architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings/specifications to identify scope gaps, risk items, and phasing constraints.
• Conduct detailed site visits and pre-bid walk-throughs to evaluate existing conditions, operational impacts, and structural/MEP tie-in challenges.
• Prepare comprehensive bid packages, inclusions/exclusions, RFI submissions, and value-engineering recommendations.
• Solicit, evaluate, and scope-check subcontractor and vendor quotes to ensure total coverage without overlap.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with specialized trades (MEP, structural steel, envelope, abatement/hazmat).
• Lead post-bid clarifications and negotiate favorable trade contracts prior to handoff.
• Utilize 2D/3D digital takeoff and estimating software to perform rapid, high-accuracy quantity counts and cost assembly.
• Integrate AI tools into daily workflows to analyze bid documents, extract scope summaries, draft RFIs, compare sub-trade proposals, and accelerate historical data referencing.
• Maintain and optimize internal cost databases, historical unit pricing, and standard productivity models.

4. Operational Handoff & Project Support

• Lead formal transition meetings with Project Managers and Superintendents upon contract award.
• Assist in pricing complex contract change orders, scope variations, and site contingency items during active construction.

Qualifications & Requirements

• GC Experience:
• 7+ years of direct estimating experience working for a General Contractor (Required).
• Sector Focus:
• Strong background pricing institutional renovations (government, education, healthcare) and/or light industrial retrofits (warehouses, maintenance bays, mechanical/electrical upgrades).
• Deep knowledge of existing structure challenges, phasing/sequencing in occupied facilities, specialized scaffolding/access, and mechanical/electrical tie-ins.
• Software Proficiency:Hands-on experience with estimating software (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam Revu, CostX, ProEst, Sage, or similar) and advanced MS Excel.
• Tech-Forward Mindset:
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for adopting AI tools (e.g., LLMs, automated takeoff tools, smart bid-management platforms) to optimize estimating speed and accuracy.

Education:

• Degree/Diploma in Construction Management, Civil/Structural Engineering, Architectural Technology, or equivalent trade experience + credentials (PMP, Gold Seal, or similar considered an asset).